Overhead Lines PDF

T&D PowerSkills Lineman Training Edition II
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Troubleshooting Overhead Lines

Edition II

Copyright MMVII

T&D PowerSkills, LLC
5501-A John Eskew Blvd.
Alexandria, LA 71303
866-880-1380

All rights reserved. This book or any part thereof
must not be reproduced in any form without the
written permission of T&D PowerSkills, LLC.

Printed in the United States of America

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T&D PowerSkills
General Guidelines for Students

This training unit is composed of a DVD and associated Student Manual. The DVD contains one
Course. The course is divided into Lessons, where each Lesson consists of a number of Topics.
The number of Lessons and Topics will vary with each course.

Recommended Sequence of Instruction

1. After the instructors introductory remarks, read the segment objectives found in the block at
the beginning of the first segment.
2. Briefly discuss the segment objectives with the instructor and other class members.
3. View the first segment of the DVD.
4. Read the text segment that corresponds to the first segment of the DVD.
5. Answer the questions at the end of the text segment. Check your answers with the correct
answers provided by the instructor.
6. Participate in a class discussion of the material just covered. Ask any questions you might
have concerning the material in the DVD and the text, and note any additional information
given by the instructor.
7. Before proceeding, be sure you understand the concepts presented in this segment.
8. Work through all segments in this manner.
9. A Course Test covering all the material will be administered by the instructor upon
completion of the unit.
10. Additional instruction and testing may be provided, at the instructors discretion.

OSHA Regulations Snap-Shot

OSHA Regulations, primarily in 1926.955, 1910.269 and 1910.268 will be used in conjunction
with this training unit. Where applicable, regulations will be highlighted and placed in a box like
this. Instructors and students are expected to review the current OSHA Regulations to
familiarize the student with the safety requirements expected by USDOL OSHA, specifically as
they relate to the topic being discussed. This information is an important part of this training
unit.

This Trouble Shooting Overhead Lines workbook is designed to be
used in conjunction with the associated training DVD/video.
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Field Performance Field Performance Field Performance Field Performance Requirements Requirements Requirements Requirements (FPR)

NAME: _____________________________

Complete

Incomplete
SECTION: Overhead Distribution - Energized

UNIT(S): Troubleshooting Overhead Lines

VG = Very Good
ACC = Acceptable
NI = Needs Improvement
NA = Not Able to Complete
on this Crew

REQUIREMENTS SUPERVISOR SIGN-OFF

VG ACC NI NA
SEGMENT 1 INTRODUCTION TO TROUBLESHOOTING

1.1 Given examples of problems, can apply logical troubleshooting
procedures to determine possible causes .

SEGMENT 2 PATROLLING

2.1 Can identify potential problems while patrolling a section of an
overhead distribution line

SEGMENT 3 TROUBLESHOOTING SAFETY

3.1 Can accurately report location to dispatcher or authorized person

3.2 Can follow approved procedures for obtaining and confirming a
clearance and work instructions ..

SEGMENT 4 SECTIONALIZING PRIMARY, PART 1

4.1 Can demonstrate approved procedures for closing in a line

SEGMENT 5 SECTIONALIZING PRIMARY, PART 2

5.1 Can describe the principles for locating problems on a primary line
by sectionalizing and energizing portions of the line safely ...

SEGMENT 6 TESTING SECONDARY, PART 1

6.1 Can demonstrate approved procedures for visually checking a
secondary circuit
6,2 Can safely test for voltage at a meter box ..

Continued:

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SEGMENT 7 TESTING SECONDARY, PART 2
7.1 Can demonstrate approved procedures for safely testing:
a. Transformer Output Voltage ...
b. Source Voltage .

______________________________ ______________________________ _______________
Employees Signature Supervisors Signature Date

PERFORMACE OTES: _____________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

1910.269(a)(2)(vii) as of July, 2006:

The employer shall certify that each employee has received the training required by paragraph
(a)(2) of this section. This certification shall be made when the employee demonstrates
proficiency in the work practices involved and shall be maintained for the duration of the
employees employment.

Note: Employment records that indicate that an employee has received the required training are
an acceptable means of meeting this requirement.
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TABLE OF COTETS

Section Title Page
1. Introduction to Troubleshooting 9

1.1 Purpose of Troubleshooting 9

1.2 Troubleshooting Steps 10

1.2.1 Gathering Information 10

1.2.2 Narrowing Down the Possible Causes or Locations of the
Problem
11

1.2.3 Locating the Problem 11

1.2.4 Isolating and Correcting the Problem 12

1.2.5 Documenting the Problem and the Action Taken 14

2. Patrolling 15

2.1 Purpose of Patrolling 15

2.2 Problems That May Be Encountered 18

3. Troubleshooting Safety 24

3.1 Reporting the Location 24

3.2 Obtaining Clearance or Work Instructions 25

3.3 Confirming Information or Instructions 26

3.4 Knowing the Consequences of Actions 26

4. Sectionalizing Primary 28

4.1 Closing In a Line 29

4.2 Sectionalizing a Line 31

5. Sectionalizing Primary 35

5.1 Sectionalizing a Primary by Sections 36

5.2 Sectionalizing a Primary at the Midpoint 40
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6. Testing Secondary 43

6.1 Visually Checking a Secondary Circuit 43

6.2 Testing for Voltage at a Meter Box 44

6.3 Additional Testing 47

7. Testing Secondary 49

7.1 Testing Voltage Output 49

7.2 Testing Source Voltage 51

7.3 Problem Solving 52

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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIOS
Figure Title Page
1-1. Broken Insulator Found by Patrolling Troubleman 11

1-2. Checking for Voltage with a Voltage Tester 12

1-3. Regulator and Bypass Switches 13

2-1. Branch on Power Lines 15

2-2. Erosion at the Base of a Pole 16

2-3. Downed Line on Guardrail 17

2-4. Broken Insulator and Line on Crossarm 18

2-5. Burned Pole and Crossarm 19

2-6. Leaking Transformer 20

2-7. Open Cutout 21

2-8. Broken Crossarm Brace 22

3-1. Pole Identification Number 25
4-1. Tree Branches Near Lines 29

4-2. Distribution Line Across a River 30

4-3. Line Opened 31

4-4. Cutout 32

4-5. Installing a Line Break 33

5-1. Primary Circuit 36

5-2. First Line Section Energized 37

5-3. Line Sections 1 and 2 Energized 38

5-4. Re-Energized Sections 1, 2, and 4 39

5-5. Half of Circuit Energized 40

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6-1. Part of a Typical Secondary Circuit 44

6-2. Typical Voltage Tester 46

6-3. Testing Phase-to-Phase Source Voltage to a Customer's Meter
Box
47

6-1. Testing Phase-to-Ground Transformer Output Voltage 49

6-2. Testing a Primary Line Using a Statiscope 52

6-3. Broken Jumper 53


1910.269 (c) (as of ovember, 2006)
Job Briefing.

The employer shall ensure that the employee in charge conducts a job briefing with employees involved
before they start each job. The briefing shall cover at least the following subjects: hazards associated
with the job, work procedures involved, special precautions, energy source controls, and personal
protective equipment requirements.
1. umber of briefings. If the work or operations to be performed during the work day or shift are
repetitive and similar, at least one job briefing shall be conducted before the start of the first job
of each day or shift. Additional job briefings shall be held if significant changes, which might
affect the safety of the employees, occur during the course of the work.
2. Extent of briefing. A brief discussion is satisfactory if the work involved is routine and if the
employee, by virtue of training and experience, can reasonably be expected to recognize and
avoid the hazards involved in the job. A more extensive discussion shall be conducted:
(i) if the work is complicated or particularly hazardous, or
(ii) if the employee cannot be expected to recognize and avoid the hazards involved in the
job.

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TROUBLESHOOTIG OVERHEAD LIES

Customers rely on overhead distribution systems as a source of uninterrupted power. When a
distribution system failure does occur, customers expect power to be restored quickly. In many
cases, troubleshooting is an important part of the power restoration process.

This training program is designed to provide basic information on troubleshooting overhead
electrical distribution systems. Among the topics covered are patrolling lines, following
common safety precautions, sectionalizing primary lines, and testing secondary systems.

1. Introduction to Troubleshooting

OBJECTIVES:

Describe the purpose of troubleshooting.
Describe logical steps for troubleshooting an overhead distribution system.

1.1 Purpose of Troubleshooting

The purpose of troubleshooting overhead distribution lines is to locate problems and restore
power to as many customers as possible as quickly as possible. When a problem occurs, the
troubleman uses the information that is available and his own experience to follow leads and
track down possible causes of the problem. He then eliminates possible causes until the source
of the problem is identified. Finally, the troubleman isolates and corrects the problem so that
customer service can be restored.
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1. Introduction to Troubleshooting (continued)

1.2 Troubleshooting Steps

Specific troubleshooting procedures vary from company to company and from one situation to
another. The following steps represent a typical troubleshooting procedure for an overhead
distribution system problem such as a no-current/power outage situation.

Gathering information
Narrowing down the possible causes or locations of the problem
Locating the problem
Isolating and correcting the problem
Documenting the problem and the action taken

1.2.1 Gathering Information

The process of troubleshooting a problem on an overhead distribution line typically begins with
gathering information. A troubleman who has been sent to investigate a problem may have
several sources of information available to him. For example, a troubleman will typically learn
about a problem from a dispatcher. The troubleman may be able to get specific details from the
dispatcher by asking questions.

Customers may be another valuable source of information. Customers who phone in complaints
or reports of problems may have information that could save time. Eyewitnesses may be able to
direct the troubleman to the source of the problem.

Another important form of information is the troubleman's experience. For example,
remembering that a certain area of a power line is more likely to experience problems than
another area could save a lot of unnecessary work.

1910.333 (as of January, 2007)
Selection and use of work practices.

(a) General. Safety-related work practices shall be employed to prevent electric shock or other injuries resulting
from either direct or indirect electrical contacts, when work is performed near or on equipment or circuits which
are or may be energized. The specific safety-related work practices shall be consistent with the nature and extent
of the associated electrical hazards.
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1.2.2 arrowing Down the Possible Causes or Locations of the Problem

The information that a troubleman obtains can help him narrow down the possible causes or
locations of a problem. For example, if several customers serviced by the same lateral have
complained of a power outage, it would be logical to begin by checking that lateral. However, if
only one customer loses power, while other surrounding customers have normal service, it would
make sense to begin by checking the power at that customer's house.

1.2.3 Locating the Problem

After the cause or location of a problem has been narrowed down to a specific area, several
methods may be used to find the problem. These methods may include patrolling, sectionalizing,
and testing.

Patrolling means visually checking a line and equipment on the line for damage. The broken
insulator shown in Figure 1-1 was spotted by a patrolling troubleman. Extreme caution must be
used on all trouble jobs. You are there because something is wrong!

Figure 1-1. Broken Insulator Found by Patrolling Troubleman

Broken Insulator
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Sometimes it is necessary to sectionalize a circuit in order to locate a problem. Sectionalizing
means re-energizing the circuit a section at a time. A section that will not stay energized usually
indicates a problem.

Voltage testing may be necessary to find problems on secondary circuits. Figure 1-2 shows a
troubleman using a voltage tester to test for voltage at a customer's house. Perform a complete
facility check including visually inspecting the motor blocks.

Figure 1-2. Checking for Voltage with a Voltage Tester

Patrolling, sectionalizing, and testing are covered in more detail later in this program.

1.2.4 Isolating and Correcting the Problem

Once a problem has been located, decisions must be made on how to handle it. Some problems
are fairly easy to correct. For example, removing a tree branch from a power line may be a
relatively simple task.
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Other jobs, such as replacing a faulty regulator (Figure 1-3), may be more involved. Temporarily
bypassing the regulator may allow power to be restored quickly. The regulator can then be
repaired or replaced later without interfering with customer service.

Figure 1-3. Regulator and Bypass Switches

In this instance, do not
close by-pass into a
possibly faulted
regulator. Isolate the
regulator first.
1910.269(I) (as of January, 2007)
(6) Apparel.
(i) When work is performed within reaching distance of exposed energized parts of equipment, the employer
shall ensure that each employee removes or renders nonconductive all exposed conductive articles, such as key or
watch chains, rings, or wrist watches or bands, unless such articles do not increase the hazards associated with contact
with the energized parts.
(ii) The employer shall train each employee who is exposed to the hazards of flames or electric arcs in the
hazards involved.
(iii) The employer shall ensure that each employee who is exposed to the hazards of flames or electric arcs does
not wear clothing that, when exposed to flames or electric arcs, could increase the extent of injury that would be
sustained by the employee.

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1.2.5 Documenting the Problem and the Action Taken

Troubleshooting documentation requirements vary from company to company. Some companies
use a standard form such as an outage report form. This type of form is used for listing
information such as the cause of the problem, the location of the problem, and the nature of the
repair. Some companies only document temporary repairs that require additional work later.

Some companies require the completion of a route sheet listing each stop and repair made during
a shift. The route sheet generally includes information regarding times, places, and types of work
performed.

Questions

1-1. True or False. The purpose of troubleshooting overhead distribution lines is to locate
problems and restore power to as many customers as possible as quickly as possible.

1-2. Circle the correct answer.
Which of the following can be a valuable source of information during troubleshooting?
a. A dispatcher
b. Customers and eyewitnesses
c. The troubleman's experience
d. All of the above

1-3. True or False. If only one customer loses power, while other surrounding customers have
normal service, troubleshooting should begin by checking the main feeder.

Which of the following is NOT a method of locating a problem?
a. Patrolling
b. Sectionalizing
c. Documenting
d. Testing

1-5. True or False. Troubleshooting ends as soon as a problem is located.
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2. Patrolling

OBJECTIVES:

Describe the purpose of patrolling overhead distribution lines.
Identify common problems to look for when patrolling overhead distribution lines.

2.1 Purpose of Patrolling

Patrolling means visually checking lines and equipment on the lines for damage. Generally,
overhead distribution lines are patrolled when there is a problem that must be located and
corrected. However, not all patrolling takes place as a result of a specific problem. Sometimes
patrolling is scheduled even though no problems have been reported. For example, lines in a
heavily wooded area may be patrolled after a storm to ensure that fallen tree branches (Figure 2-
1) will not cause problems.

Figure 2-1. Branch on Power Lines

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2. Patrolling (continued)

Lines in areas that are susceptible to erosion may be patrolled from time to time to ensure that the
ground around poles (Figure 2-2) has not washed away.

Figure 2-2. Erosion at the Base of a Pole

Possible Erosion
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Whether patrolling is done in response to a specific problem or as part of a scheduled routine,
there is always the potential for danger. A normally safe environment can quickly become a
potentially deadly one. For example, downed powerlines can contact objects on the ground, such
as a metal guardrail. As a result, the guardrail could become energized. Whenever patrolling is
done, it is a good practice to treat all lines and equipment as if they are energized.

Figure 2-3. Proper Troubleshooting PPE, After a Major Storm

The wearing of all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during troubleshooting, is critical for
personal safety.
1910.134 (as of January, 2007)
(f) Training.

(1) The employer shall provide training to each employee who is required by this section to use PPE. Each such
employee shall be trained to know at least the following:
(i) When PPE is necessary;
(ii) What PPE is necessary;
(iii) How to properly don, doff, adjust, and wear PPE;
(iv) The limitations of the PPE; and,
(v) The proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of the PPE.

1. Hard Hat
2. Safety Glasses
3. Insulated Sleeves
4. Insulated Gloves
5. Protective Work Gloves
6. Steel Toed Shoes with Insulated
Rubber Bootie
7. Fire Retardant work shirt
8. Linemans Climbing Belt and
Safety Strap
9. Insulated Hot Stick for testing
for voltage
10. ot Shown: Voltage Tester and
climbers
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2.2 Problems That May Be Encountered

A wide variety of problems may be found while patrolling an overhead distribution line.
Problems can be related to wires, poles, hardware, and/or equipment. For example, in Figure 2-
4, a broken insulator has allowed a distribution line to fall on a crossarm, burning the crossarm.
A problem such as this could be easy to miss, especially when patrolling is done at night.

Figure 2-4. Broken Insulator and Line on Crossarm

Line on
Cross-
arm
Examples
of Broken
Insulators
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Figure 2-5 shows a burned pole and crossarm. Current tracked across the insulator to the double
arm bolt and set the pole and crossarm on fire.

Figure 2-5. Burned Pole and Crossarm

Burned Pole and Crossarm
Double Arm Bolt
Insulators
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The transformer shown in Figure 2-6 is leaking insulating oil. It is an example of an equipment
problem found by a troubleman while patrolling. Special care must be taken to determine if the
transformer contains oil laden with PCBs. If so, this must be treated as a hazardous chemical.
Other types of equipment problems include burned connections, burned or damaged insulators,
and ruptured or bulging equipment.

Figure 2-6. Leaking Transformer

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Troublemen patrolling to find the cause of an outage often find that protective devices, such as
the cutout shown in Figure 2-7, have operated. Sometimes, a protective device may be the cause
of the problem. Usually, however, the protective device is triggered by other problems.

Figure 2-7. Open Cutout / Animal Caused Outages

Sometimes, squirrels or birds get into energized connectors and equipment and cause problems.
For example, a squirrel could bridge the gap between a phase and ground and cause an outage.
Animal caused outages are very common in urban and highly wooden areas.

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TROUBLESHOOTIG OVERHEAD LIE

Not all problems require immediate attention. Judgments often have to be made about the
severity of a problem. For example, the broken crossarm brace shown in Figure 2-8 may not
have to be replaced or repaired immediately if there are more severe problems on the line that
require attention.
Figure 2-8. Broken Crossarm

1910.269(q)(1)(i) as of July, 2006:

Before elevated structures, such as poles or towers, are subjected to such stresses as climbing or
the installation or removal of equipment my impose, the employer shall ascertain that the
structures are capable of sustaining the additional or unbalanced stresses. If the pole or other
structure cannot withstand the loads which will be imposed, it shall be braced or otherwise
supported so as to prevent failure.

Note: Appendix D to this section contains test methods that can be used in ascertaining whether
a wood pole is capable of sustaining the forces that would be imposed by an employee climbing
the pole. This paragraph also requires the employer to ascertain that the pole can sustain all other
forces that will be imposed by the work to be performed.
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Questions

2-1. True or False. Patrolling an overhead distribution line means visually checking the line
and equipment on the line for damage.

2-2. True or False. Patrolling is scheduled only when specific problems have been reported on
a line.

2-3. A troubleman should always treat lines and equipment as if they are
_______________________.
(energized, de-energized)

Problems on overhead distribution lines can be related to
a. Wires
b. Poles
c. Hardware
d. Equipment
e. All of the above
f. Only a and b

OTES: _____________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

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TROUBLESHOOTIG OVERHEAD LIES (continued)

3. Troubleshooting Safety

Troubleshooting overhead distribution lines can take place in any kind of weather, and at any
time of the day or night. Since there may be unsuspected hazards, following safety precautions is
an important part of any troubleman's job. Specific safety procedures vary, depending on factors
such as the nature of the problem and company policies. This section examines some common
safety guidelines that apply in most situations.

OBJECTIVE:

Describe the following safety precautions to observe when troubleshooting
overhead distribution lines:
- Reporting the location
- Obtaining clearance or work instructions
- Confirming information and instructions
- Knowing the consequences of actions

3.1 Reporting the Location

One important safety practice that troublemen follow is accurately reporting their location. The
troubleman should work closely with the dispatcher. As long as the dispatcher knows where the
troubleman is, he can send help if there is a problem.

Battery Powered Radio Personal Voltage Sensor
Page 25

3. Troubleshooting Safety (continued)

Locations can be established by several methods, depending on the situation and company policy.
For example, one method of establishing an accurate location is to use a street address. When
work is done in an area that is not near an identifiable street address, many companies use pole
identification numbers (Figure 3-1).

Figure 3-1. Pole Identification umber

Sometimes an accurate location can be established by describing landmarks. For example, an
area might be described as being on the west side of Fox Chase Road, five poles north of the
intersection at Clopper Road.

3.2 Obtaining Clearance or Work Instructions

Before a troubleman does any work on overhead lines or equipment, it is a good practice to
inform the dispatcher of the work that is to be performed. In some cases, the dispatcher must
give clearance for the work to be done. The dispatcher may also give the troubleman instructions
or other information that will help get the job done safely and efficiently.

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3.3 Confirming Information or Instructions

Some companies require or encourage troublemen to write down all instructions and read them
back to the dispatcher. This practice ensures that all information has been accurately
communicated and helps to ensure, for example, that a "B" was not mistaken for a "C" or that
"north" was not given as a direction when the direction should have been "south."

3.4 Knowing the Consequences of Actions

To avoid accidents, troublemen must consider the effects of their actions before doing work on a
line. For example, before energizing or de-energizing a line, a troubleman should contact the
dispatcher to clear the work. For each task, the troubleman should know what will happen as a
result of his actions.


1910.269 (a) (3) (as of ovember, 2006):
Existing Conditions.

Existing Conditions related to the safety of the work to be performed shall be determined before
work on or near electric line or equipment is started. Such conditions include, but are not
limited to, the nominal voltages of lines and equipment, the maximum switching transient
voltages, the presence of hazardous induced voltages, the presence and condition of protective
grounds and equipment grounding conductors, the condition of poles, environmental conditions
relative to safety, and the locations of circuits and equipment, including power and
communications lines and fire protective signaling circuits.
Page 27


Questions

3-1. True or False. Safety is an important part of troubleshooting.

Which of the following can be used by a troubleman to establish his location?
a. Street addresses
b. Pole identification numbers
c. Landmarks
d. All of the above
e. Only a and b

3-3. The _____________________ may provide a troubleman with clearance, instructions,
and other information.

A common troubleshooting safety practice is verifying information by
a. Writing down the dispatcher's instructions
b. Telephoning other utilities to see how they would handle the situation
c. Reading all information back to the dispatcher
d. All of the above
e. Only a and c

3-5. True or False. Before performing any work on a line, a troubleman should know what the
results of the work will be.

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4. Sectionalizing Primary, Part 1

When a power outage occurs, a typical procedure is to patrol the line to locate the source of the
problem, let the dispatcher know what has to be done, take the necessary steps to isolate or
correct the problem, and then close the line in to restore service. In some cases, however, a
different troubleshooting approach might be used. One such approach is sectionalizing the line.

OBJECTIVES:

Explain when it may be appropriate to close in a line that has tripped open.
Describe three ways that a line can be sectionalized.


1926.955 (as of ovember 2006)

(4)(i) If the existing line is deenergized, proper clearance authorization shall be secured and the line
grounded on both sides of the crossover or, the line being strung or removed shall be considered and
worked as energized.
(ii) When crossing over energized conductors in excess of 600 volts, rope nets or guard structures shall
be installed unless provision is made to isolate or insulate the workman or the energized conductor.
Where practical the automatic reclosing feature of the circuit interrupting device shall be made
inoperative. In addition, the line being strung shall be grounded on either side of the crossover or
considered and worked as energized.
(5) Conductors being strung in or removed shall be kept under positive control by the use of adequate
tension reels, guard structures, tielines, or other means to prevent accidental contact with energized
circuits.

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TROUBLESHOOTIG OVERHEAD LIES - PART 1
4. Sectionalizing Primary, Part 1 (continued)

4.1 Closing in a Line

Closing in a line means re-energizing a line that has tripped open. Closing in is usually done
after a problem has been found and isolated or corrected. In some cases, a line may be closed in
after it has been checked and no apparent problem has been found. Sometimes, a problem on an
overhead distribution line is temporary and will clear itself later. For example, the tree branches
shown in Figure 4-1 may brush against the lines during high winds and cause problems. Later,
after the winds calm, the cause of the problem may not be evident. The branches could be well
away from the lines, and the troubleman might not notice them.

Figure 4-1. Tree Branches ear Lines

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Whether or not a line is closed in if no problem is found depends on experience and company
policy. In the video example, a line that crossed a river (Figure 4-2) was reported to be out. A
troubleman determined that a fused cutout had blown open, but he did not know why. The
troubleman patrolled the line up to the point at which it crossed the river, but he found no
problem. He could have crossed the river and continued patrolling, but that would have taken a
great deal of time. The troubleman knew from his own experience that temporary problems
caused by tree branches were frequent in the area on the other side of the river, so he asked the
dispatcher for permission to re-fuse the cutout and close in the line. If it holds, customers are
without power for a much shorter time. (Note: Figure 4-2 represents a hypothetical distribution
system. Other systems may be designed differently. For example, the open cutout in Figure 4-2
may be a different device, such as a recloser, in another system.)

Figure 4-2. Distribution Line Across a River

Page 31


4.2 Sectionalizing a Line

Sectionalizing a line means re-energizing it a section at a time. Sectionalizing can be used in a
number of situations, depending on the nature of the problem and company policy. In the video
example, the fused cutout failed to hold when the troubleman tried to close in the line that
crossed the river. The troubleman then decided to sectionalize the line to see if he could restore
service to at least some customers. First, the troubleman opened the line at a convenient point
near the river (Figure 4-3). He then re-fused and closed the cutout to energize the section of line
on his side of the river. If the line stayed energized, the troubleman would have restored service
to some customers and narrowed the problem down to one side of the river.

Figure 4-3. Line Opened

Page 32


A line can be sectionalized in several ways. One way is to open a switch located at a convenient
point in the line. The switch could be a cutout (Figure 4-4), a gang-operated air switch, a
recloser, or any other appropriate switching device.

Figure 4-4. Fused Cutouts

Page 33

A line can also be sectionalized by cutting a jumper or removing a hot tap. A jumper is a
conductor that connects two lines, such as the one in Figure 4-5. A hot tap is a type of
connection that was made to join two conductors.

Figure 4-5. Installing a Jumper



1910.269(j)(2) (as of ovember 2006)
Condition of tools.
(i) Each live-line tool shall be wiped clean and visually inspected for defects before use each day.
(ii) If any defect or contamination that could adversely affect the insulating qualities or mechanical integrity of
the live-line tool is present after wiping, the tool shall be removed from service and examined and tested
according to paragraph (j)(2)(iii) of this section before being returned to service.
(iii) Live-line tools used for primary employee protection shall be removed from service every 2 years and
whenever required under paragraph (j)(2)(ii) of this section for examination, cleaning, repair, and testing as
follows:
[A] Each tool shall be thoroughly examined for defects.
[B] If a defect or contamination that could adversely affect the insulating qualities or mechanical
integrity of the live-line tool is found, the tool shall be repaired and refinished or shall be permanently
removed from service. If no such defect or contamination is found, the tool shall be cleaned and waxed.

Page 34


Questions

4-1. True or False. Sectionalizing a line may restore power to some customers quickly, and
also help narrow the area of the problem.

A line may be sectionalized by opening
a. A fused cutout
b. A gang-operated air switch
c. A recloser
d. Any of the above

4-3. True or False. Cutting a jumper is a way of sectionalizing a line.

A line break is usually installed when
a. There is no convenient switch to open
b. There is a recloser nearby
c. There is no convenient place to remove a hot tap or cut a jumper
d. All of the above
e. Only a and c

OTES: _____________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Page 35

TROUBLESHOOTIG OVERHEAD LIES - (continued)

5. Sectionalizing Primary, Part 2

Sectionalizing a primary line can be an effective way to isolate a problem on a circuit and restore
power to customers. A primary line can be sectionalized in several ways, depending on the
situation and company policy. For example, a primary line may be sectionalized one relatively
small section at a time, or it may be sectionalized in larger portions, such as at the midpoint of
the line.

OBJECTIVE:

Describe the principles for locating trouble on a primary line by sectionalizing and
energizing portions of the line.

1910.269(g)(2)(v) as of July, 2006:

Fall arrest equipment, work positioning equipment, or travel restricting equipment shall be used
by employees working at elevated locations more that 4 feet (1.2 m) above the ground on poles,
towers, or similar structures if other fall protection has not been provided. Fall protection
equipment is not required to be used by a qualified employee climbing or changing location on
poles, towers or similar structures, unless conditions, such as, but not limited to, ice, high winds,
the design of the structure (for example, no provision for holding on with hands), or the presence
of contaminants on the structure, could cause the employee to loose his or her grip or footing.

Note 1: This paragraph applies to structures that support overhead electric power generation,
transmission, and distribution lines and equipment. It does not apply to portions of buildings,
such as loading docks, to electric equipment, such as transformers and capacitors, nor to aerial
lifts. Requirements for fall protection associated with walking and working surfaces are
contained in Subpart D of this Part; requirements for fall protection associated with aerial lifts are
contained in 1910.67 of this Part.

ote 2: Employees undergoing training are not considered qualified employees for the
purposes of this provision. Unqualified employees (including trainees) are required to use
fall protection any time they are more than 4 feet (1.2 m) above the ground. (emphasis
supplied).
Page 36


5.1 Sectionalizing a Primary by Sections

Figure 5-1 is a simplified illustration of a primary circuit. The illustration shows a substation
circuit breaker, a primary distribution line, laterals, fused cutouts, normally closed non-load-
break switches, and a load-break switch that serves as a normally open tie point. In this example,
a problem has caused the substation circuit breaker to open, de-energizing the circuit from the
circuit breaker to the open load-break switch.

Figure 5-1. Primary Circuit

Company policies often dictate how a line can be sectionalized to locate the source of a problem.
In the video demonstration, the troubleman began by patrolling the section of line between the
circuit breaker and the first switch.

Page 37


The troubleman found no problem on that section of line, so he asked the dispatcher for
permission to open the first switch. After receiving approval, the troubleman opened the switch
and tagged it. The troubleman observed the appropriate safety precautions by working the line as
if it were energized. After informing the dispatcher that the switch was open, the troubleman
asked the dispatcher to remotely close the circuit breaker to re-energize the section of line from
the breaker to the switch (Figure 5-2). The breaker stayed closed, so the troubleman knew that
the cause of the problem was not in that section of the line.

Figure 5-2. First Line Section Energized

Sectionalizing allows a troubleman to test a section of line, make it operational, and then move
on to another section. In the video demonstration, the troubleman made the first section of the
line operational and then proceeded to the second section of line, between the first switch and the
second switch.

Page 38


When the troubleman patrolled the second section of the line, he found no problem, so he opened
and tagged the second switch (1). He then returned to the first switch, which was still open. The
troubleman asked the dispatcher to open the circuit breaker (2) so that the first switch could be
closed safely. After the breaker was opened, the troubleman closed the first switch (3). The
dispatcher then closed the circuit breaker (4) and re-energized the section of line from the circuit
breaker to the second switch (Figure 5-3). Again, the breaker stayed closed, indicating that the
problem was not in the first two sections.

Figure 5-3. Line Sections 1 and 2 Energized

Sectionalizing a primary line could continue in this manner for some time. However, in the
video presentation, the troubleman found the problem in the third section. A line was down
between the second and third switches.

Page 39


After finding the downed line, the troubleman could have stopped patrolling and started to take
corrective action, or he could isolate the problem and continue sectionalizing to restore power to
customers on the other side of the problem area. The troubleman decided to continue
sectionalizing, so he went on to the third switch, which he opened and tagged (1). He then went
on to the normally open load-break tie switch and asked permission to close that switch. When
the switch was closed (2), the section between the third switch and the load-break tie switch was
re-energized (Figure 5-4).

Figure 5-4. Re-Energized Sections 1, 2, and 4

With three sections re-energized, only the section between the second and third switches (the
section containing the downed line) was out of service. By sectionalizing the primary line one
section at a time, the troubleman was able to isolate the problem and restore power to many of
the customers.

Page 40


5.2 Sectionalizing a Primary at the Midpoint

Sometimes a circuit is sectionalized at the midpoint in an attempt to restore service to more
customers in less time. For example, in the video demonstration, the troubleman could have
started troubleshooting by patrolling from the circuit breaker all the way to the second switch,
which was near the midpoint. If he found no problem, he could have opened the second switch
(1) and then asked the dispatcher to remotely close the circuit breaker (2) to re-energize the first
half of the line. Figure 5-5 shows the part of the line that could have been energized in one step
by sectionalizing at the midpoint.

Figure 5-5. Half of Circuit Energized

Not every circuit can be sectionalized at the midpoint. Company policy and other factors, such
as the layout of the circuit or the load distribution, normally dictate the procedure to follow.

Page 41


Questions

5-1. True or False. Sectionalizing a primary line should always start at the midpoint.

5-2. True or False. It is a good practice to patrol a section of line before opening or closing
switches.

Refer to the following illustration to answer Questions 5-3 and5-4.

If trouble on the line causes a substation circuit breaker to open, one logical place to
begin patrolling for the problem is
a. Between the first and second switches on the line
b. Between the last switch and a load-break tie switch
c. Between the circuit breaker and the first switch
d. On a secondary circuit near a customer's house

Page 42


If a portion of the sectionalized primary line is re-energized, and remains energized,
a. That section of line has a definite problem
b. That section may have no problem
c. That section of line must be shut down immediately
d. Both a and c

5-5. True or False. Sectionalizing a primary line near the midpoint may help restore service to
more customers in less time.

OTES: _____________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
Page 43


6. Testing Secondary, Part 1

Problems on secondary circuits are as common as problems on primary circuits. One situation
that troublemen often face on secondary circuits is a power outage report from one customer.

OBJECTIVE:

Describe how to locate trouble by testing for voltage at a customer's meter.

6.1 Visually Checking a Secondary Circuit

Troubleshooting a power outage at a customer's house typically involves testing for voltage at the
customer's meter box. A visual check of the secondary circuit leading to the meter box will
sometimes reveal the cause of the outage.

Page 44

6. Testing Secondary, Part 1 (continued)

Figure 6-1 shows part of a typical secondary circuit, including the secondary main, a distribution
transformer, a fused cutout, and a service drop to a customer's house. These components are all
susceptible to problems. In the video example, the troubleman found no obvious signs of
problems on the secondary, so he made a number of voltage tests to narrow down the location of
the problem. One of the first tests he performed was to check for voltage to the house.

Figure 6-1. Part of a Typical Secondary Circuit

Page 45

6.2 Testing for Voltage at a Meter Box

The first step in testing for voltage at a meter box is to gain access to the meter box terminals.
Depending on the design of the meter box, access may be gained by removing the meter box
cover or by removing the meter.

Page 46


Voltage testing can be done with a voltage tester (Figure 6-2), a voltmeter, or any other testing
device capable of handling secondary voltage levels.

Figure 6-2. Typical Voltage Tester

1910.269(I)(2) (as of ovember 2006)
(i) The employee is insulated from the energized part (insulating gloves or insulating gloves and
sleeves worn in accordance with paragraph (l)(3) of this section are considered insulation of the
employee only with regard to the energized part upon which work is being performed), or
(ii) The energized part is insulated from the employee and from any other conductive object at a
different potential.
Page 47


In the video demonstration, phase-to-phase voltage was tested by connecting the two probes of
the testing device to the two source phase terminals inside the meter box (Figure 6-3). (Phase-to-
phase checks in a meter box are also referred to as line-to-line checks.) When voltage tests are
performed, care must be taken to ensure that the probes do not touch a phase terminal and the
meter box or any other grounded part at the same time. Touching a probe to both phase and
ground at the same time will result in a phase-to-ground short.

Figure 6-3. Testing Phase-to-Phase Source Voltage to a Customer's Meter Box

Page 48


A normal residential phase-to-phase voltage reading should be about 240 volts. The troubleman
in the video presentation got no reading, so he knew that there was no phase-to-phase voltage to
the meter. His next step was to test the phase-to-ground voltage.

Phase-to-ground voltage is tested by connecting one probe of the voltage tester to the ground
terminal and the other probe to one phase terminal. A normal residential phase-to-ground
voltage reading should be about 120 volts. Both phases should be tested to ground. If there is no
reading on either leg, voltage is not reaching the meter, and two possible causes of the customer's
outage can usually be eliminated: (1) The problem is not likely to be in the customer's wiring or
equipment, and (2) the problem is probably not in the customer's meter.

6.3 Additional Testing

Test results of no voltage at a meter box usually indicate a problem somewhere up the line. The
problem could be in the service drop, the secondary main, the transformer, or even the primary.
If a transformer serves several customers, a quick check for voltage at a second customer's meter
box could help to further isolate the problem.

If there is normal voltage at the second customer's meter box, the problem is not likely to be in
the transformer or the secondary main. It would most likely be in the service drop to the first
customer.

If the second customer also has no voltage at the meter box, the problem is not likely to be in
either service drop. It could be in the secondary main, the transformer, the protective device for
the transformer, or the primary. Additional troubleshooting will be necessary to determine the
exact location.

Page 49


Questions

6-1. True or False. Visually checking the secondary circuit leading to a customer's meter box
sometimes reveals the cause of a problem.

6-2. True or False. The first step in testing voltage at a meter box is to gain access to the
meter box terminals.

Testing phase-to-phase voltage in a residential area
a. Usually results in a reading of 240 volts
b. Usually results in a reading of 120 volts
c. Usually involves connecting a voltage tester to a ground terminal
d. Both b and c

6-4. True or False. Phase-to-ground voltage is tested by connecting both voltage tester probes
to the ground terminal.

If two customers are serviced by the same distribution transformer, and both are without
service, the problem is likely to be
a. In the service drop to the second customer
b. In the secondary main, the transformer, or before the transformer
c. In the first customer's meter box
d. In the first customer's house wiring

OTES: _____________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
Page 50


7. Testing Secondary, Part 2

In the video demonstration, the troubleman eliminated the possibility of a problem at the meter
boxes and service drops of two customers. His next step was testing at the distribution
transformer.

OBJECTIVES:

Describe how to locate trouble by testing for power output from a distribution
transformer.
Describe how to locate trouble by testing for power to a distribution transformer.

7.1 Testing Voltage Output

Voltage testing at a distribution transformer may help to isolate a secondary circuit problem. If
there is normal voltage output at the transformer, the problem could be somewhere on the
secondary main. If there is no voltage output at the transformer, the problem could be either in
the transformer or in the source circuit to the transformer.

Page 51


The voltage output at a distribution transformer can be tested in the same way as the voltage at a
meter box, using a voltage tester. Phase-to-phase output voltage is checked by touching the
tester probes to the two secondary phase terminals of the transformer. Phase-to-ground tests are
made by touching the tester probes to the secondary neutral terminal of the transformer and one
of the secondary phase terminals (Figure 7-1). The probes are then placed on the secondary
neutral terminal and the other secondary phase terminal.

Figure 7-1. Testing Phase-to-Ground Transformer Output Voltage

If the tests show that there is no voltage output from the transformer, the problem causing the
customer's outage is not in the secondary main. It is either in the transformer or in the source
circuit to the transformer.

Page 52


7.2 Testing Source Voltage

In the video demonstration, the troubleman checked to determine if the source circuit, or primary
line, was energized. A statiscope, such as the one shown in Figure 7-2, was used for this test.

Figure 7-2. Testing a Primary Line Using a Statiscope

Statiscope

Page 53


In the video demonstration, the statiscope light lit up, indicating that the primary line was
energized. The troubleman then knew that the problem was somewhere between the primary and
the transformer or in the transformer itself. When the troubleman took a closer look at the
cutout, he noticed that the primary jumper had broken off at the connection to the cutout (Figure
7-3).

Figure 7-3. Broken Jumper

7.3 Problem Solving

Procedures for repairing a problem like the broken jumper vary, depending on company policy.
In the video demonstration, the cutout was opened to isolate the transformer. The jumper was
then moved away from the cutout and disconnected from the primary. The troubleman then
trimmed and cleaned the end of the jumper and reattached it at the top of the cutout. Finally, the
troubleman cleaned the primary, reconnected the jumper to it, and closed the cutout to re-
energize the transformer and restore power to the customers.

Page 54


Questions

7-1. True or False. If a troubleman has eliminated the possibility of a problem at a customer's
meter box and in the service drop, a logical next step is to test at the distribution
transformer.

With the transformer fuse intact, a no voltage output reading at a distribution transformer
could indicate
a. A problem somewhere on the secondary main
b. A problem somewhere in the transformer
c. A problem somewhere in the source circuit
d. All of the above
e. Only b and c

With a customer outage, a normal voltage output reading at a distribution transformer
could indicate
a. A problem somewhere on the secondary main
b. A problem somewhere in the transformer
c. A problem somewhere in the source circuit
d. All of the above
e. Only b and c

7-4. True or False. When output voltage is tested at a distribution transformer, only phase-to-
phase testing is necessary.

A ________________ can be used to test for input voltage at a distribution transformer.
a. Meter box
b. Statiscope
c. Primary jumper
d. None of the above

Page 55

GLOSSARY

This glossary contains terms pertinent to troubleshooting overhead lines. The meanings of the
terms are given in that context.

Branch line - A line in a distribution system that taps off of a lateral
circuit.

Closing in - Re-energizing a line that has tripped open.

Hot tap - A type of connection that can be made to join two
conductors.

Jumper - A conductor that connects two lines.

Lateral - A line in a distribution system that taps off of a primary
circuit.

Outage report form - A form used by some companies on which a
troubleman documents information such as the cause of
an outage, the location of the problem, and the nature of
the repair work done.

Patrolling - Visually checking lines and equipment for signs of
damage.

Route sheet - A form used by some companies on which a
troubleman lists each stop made, the time of the stop,
and the work performed during a given shift.

Sectionalizing - Re-energizing a circuit a section at a time to determine
the location of a problem.

Troubleshooting - A systematic process of gathering information and
tracking down leads to find the source of a problem.

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