Design and operation perspective of a

British UHV laboratory

Prof. H.M. Ryan. B.Sc, Ph.D., C.Eng., F.I.E.E., F.lnst.P.,
and J. Whiskard, B.Sc.(Eng.), C.Eng., M.I.E.E.
Indexing terms:

Design, Instrumentation and measuring science, Reviews of progress

Abstract: The authors have, in the past, been directly involved in the design, planning and supervision of the
construction, of a new ultra-high-voltage laboratory. The main purpose of the laboratory was to provide a
major facility in the UK for the development of switchgear rated up to 765 kV and in the dielectric research
required for such an undertaking. Following the opening of the laboratory in 1970, the authors have in recent
years been closely connected in the development of new ranges of open terminal and metalclad SF 6 switchgear
rated up to 525 kV and for fault currents up to 63 kA. These activities have been supported by extensive
dielectric research studies, which have enabled the major factors influencing the insulation integrity of practical
equipment to be determined. First, this paper outlines the criteria used in designing the laboratory and presents
a critical appraisal of the facilities during the first 15 years of operation. Secondly, consideration is given to
illustrating some significant laboratory activities. Examples are given of various switchgear and nonswitchgear
components for systems =765 kV, which have been subjected to rigorous dielectric proving tests in the main
test hall. The use of specific high-voltage test procedures (e.g. climatic, artificial rainfall, mixed voltage testing)
are described, and important technical factors which have influenced the dielectric design of apparatus are
considered.

Introduction

In the 1920s, switchgear manufacturers were mainly

engaged in exploring the problem of protecting oilimmersed switchgear by means of surge arresters, for
which the impulse generators and the test cages then available were adequate for the purpose.
The problem of damage to station equipment due to
lightning strokes was, however, becoming an important
issue during the 1930s, and the necessity to learn more
about the behaviour of dielectric materials and electrical
equipment when subjected to lightning voltages, was
becoming urgent. The outcome of these requirements was
the establishment of a whole generation of high-voltage
laboratories in this country and abroad. These laboratories provided a major factor in the development of
switchgear rated up to 400 kV, and the accumulation of
knowledge in the related problems of high-voltage impulse
wave behaviour.
The laboratories established in the late 1930s continued
to prove their usefulness even though additions in testing
equipment, increases in test area and even in the height of
the laboratories, were required from time to time. This
state of affairs continued until the early 1960s, during
which time the establishment of the British National Super
Grid, and the use of air-blast circuit breakers were taking
place.
It was becoming evident by this time (early 1960s) that
with the foreseeable development of transmission voltages
in excess of 400 kV, much more knowledge in the behaviour of impulse and switching voltage waves was required
for the development of higher voltage rated air-blast gear
and the rapidly developing technology of pressurised gases
(SF6).
A new generation of ultra-high-voltage laboratories was
initiated in the UK and abroad, particularly in Italy,
France, Germany, USA, Canada and Japan.
Paper 4889A (S3),firstreceived 19th July 1985 and in revised form 7th April 1986
The authors were formerly with NEI Reyrolle Ltd. Professor Ryan is now at the
Department of Electrical, Electronic and Control Engineering, Sunderland Polytechnic, Edinburgh Building, Chester Road, Sunderland SRI 3SD, United
Kingdom. Mr. Whiskard is now retired and can be contacted at 28 Briardene Drive,
Gateshead, Tyne and Wear NE10 8AN, United Kingdom
IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

As a major switchgear manufacturer in this country, it

was imperative to develop our own ultra-high-voltage
facilities. The possibility however, had not been ignored of
sending equipment for tests to already existing laboratories
abroad, but the cost of testing and of transportation of
large and heavy equipment, the lengthy processing of test
results and data at considerable distance from the parent
company, all proved a major drawback to this course of
action. The decision was taken towards the end of the
1960s period to go ahead in the design and construction of
the laboratory which is the subject of the present paper.
This paper describes the criteria used in designing the
new UHV laboratory, outlines the finalised design and
provides an appraisal of (i) the effectiveness of major laboratory test equipment and (ii) the salient work carried out
in the laboratory during the past 15 years. In this
appraisal, particular attention is given to problems
encountered with the test equipment and ways in which
some of them were overcome are considered. Difficulties in
the test work are also described and some of the many
successes achieved are highlighted. Where appropriate, the
paper will 'position' the UK state of the art, by describing
laboratory achievements and activities of this industrial
laboratory complex and comparing with related work
carried out elsewhere particularly at three other UHV
test laboratories in the UK, France and Canada operated
by national supply utilities.
2

Criteria used in designing the laboratory

As usual in engineering design, the criteria used are a

mixture of technical reasoning, economic considerations
and time scales. Preliminary considerations started about
the middle of 1963 regarding the feasibility of such a
project and broadly covered the following grounds:
(a) Enlarging existing high-voltage laboratory building
and uprating existing test equipment such as AC transformer, impulse generator, high-voltage measuring devices
etc.
(b) Survey of available land with the possible purpose of
creating a new high-voltage test site.
(c) Determination of maximum rating of switchgear to
501

be developed and therefore tested in the foreseeable future

with a test voltage margin above this for future development and research. Evaluation of the probable physical
size of future switchgear at the maximum rating considered.
(d) Evaluation of the size of the test hall based on the
maximum foreseeable size of test piece and on clearances
derived from switching impulse data associated with pointto-plane airgaps.
(e) Consideration was given to the following alternatives :
(i) test area completely outdoors, with or without
some protection for main test equipment
(ii) test area indoors, to maximum ideal dimensions,
with all major test equipment in fixed positions
(iii) test area indoors, but with additional facility for
outdoor testing
(iv) test hall of reduced dimensions (economical size),
but with major test equipment mobile.
3

Finalised laboratory design

In 1963, when the projected design of the laboratory was

first under review and its potential role was being considered the natural steps of circuit-breaker ratings
beyond the 420 kV level already operating in the UK, were
750-765 kV and 1100-1200 kV. Although serious doubts
remained that any progress upwards towards transmission systems >420 kV would be made in the home
market within the next twenty to thirty years, there were

definite indications that overseas the rating in certain projects e.g. Ontario/Quebec Hydro (Canada), El-Chocon
(Argentina) etc., would reach 765 kV and, in the foreseeable future, 1200 kV was likely. This prediction would
obviously identify and quantify the laboratory test voltages and air clearances which would be necessary to
undertake dielectric research, development and ultimately
type tests associated with any new switchgear.
The other prediction was to evaluate what form future
switchgear designs would take. On the one hand, it was
logical to think that the principle of air-blast interruption
(see Fig. 1) and compressed-air insulation would prevail
and all that would be required was to scale up the known
parameters, at the existing statutory ratings, while at the
same time anticipating future EHV dielectric test specifications, customer requirements etc. On the other hand,
there was a general realisation that circuit breakers using
sulphurhexafluoride gas (SF6) for interruption and dielectric duties represented an alternative possibility at
EHV/UHV levels in which case, fewer series interrupter
breaks per phase might be possible and any future trend
towards 'compact' SF 6 metalclad switchgear installations
would obviously result in a significantly reduced laboratory test hall dimensional requirement. In general terms,
if a 275 kV air-blast circuit breaker was associated with a
test object of length 5.2 m in the test hall, 420 kV with
about 11.3 m, for 1.1-1.2 MV rated gear, a length of about
18.3 m would be a reasonable assumption.
Since the most onerous test condition is imposed by the
application of the positive-polarity switching impulse

c
Fig. 1
Earlier designs of 420 kV air-blast circuit breakers
Recent laboratory tests have involved UHV system co-ordination studies
a Single phase of afirst-generationbreaker (12 breaks/phase) b Single phase of a second-generation breaker (6 breaks/phase)

502

Part schematic diagram of b

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

 15.2 m

door height 18.9 m

width 5.7m

Mr
height 18.9m
width 11.7m
48.8 m

Fig. 2

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

UHV laboratory layout

a Plan
b Elevation
c External view looking north
d View of test hall and equipment
A 2 MV AC transformer, overall height 18.3 m
B 4 MV impulse generator, overall height 13.2 m
C 4 MV capacitor divider, overall height 14.7 m
D Test specimens
E Mobile oil-filled test tank
Internal diameter 5.5 m
Depth
5.5 m
Additional supplementary facilities were located
within the original laboratory building following
reorganisation in 1980. They are illustrated in
Figs. 25-31 and their locations identified by
letters F-L
503

waves, it was necessary to establish the minimum air clearance for this test plus a comfortable margin above this
level for research and to take into account the unpredictability of switching impulses and proximity effects with
large practical air gaps, when values of 1.8 MV peak are
reached and exceeded.
Studies at the time in other laboratories gave extreme
examples of flashover paths of (i) 8.75 m for 1.4 MV peak
positive switching impulse SI wet with a clearance of
7 m to the building, (ii) broken paths equivalent in one
case to 8.78 m for 1.9 MV positive SI dry and, in another
example, to 9.28 m for 1.9 MV peak positive SI dry. For
1.1-1.2 MV rated gear, switching impulse voltages of up to
2.3 MV could be required for insulation coordination
evaluation, for which a laboratory clearance of 15.3 m was
estimated.
The dimensions of the laboratory, denned as the working clearance, were then estimated to be 33.5 m (110 feet)
wide x 32 m (105 feet) high x 82.3 m (270 feet) long.
However, since the cost of building is roughly proportional
to the volume, a worthwhile economy could be effected by
reducing the length of the building and, in compensation,
ensuring that all test equipment would be mobile.
The resultant laboratory length selected was a reduction
from 82.3 m (270 feet) to 48.8 m (160 feet), but an outdoor
test pad was provided which could be serviced readily
because of the mobility of test equipment, so as to minimise the disadvantage of reduced internal space. The
general layout of the laboratory is illustrated in Fig. 2. The
main items of test equipment are shown in Figs. 2 and 3
and described elsewhere [1, 2]. They include:
(i) 2 MV RMS 50 Hz test transformer (Figs. Id and 3a)
(ii) 4 MV lightning impulse 2.8 MV switching surge generator (Figs. 2d and 3b)
(iii) 4 MV potential divider (Figs. 2d and 3c)
(iv) artificial rain equipment capable of continuous rain
operation (Fig. 5)
(v) two large oil tanks (Figs. 3c and 5c)
(vi) various high-voltage measuring devices other than
(iii) above.
A full list of equipment with technical data is given in
Appendix 10.2.
Historically, it should be recalled that the laboratory
was officially opened on 15th May 1970, by the then Minister of Technology, the Rt. Hon. Anthony Wedgwood
Benn and was named, the Clothier Laboratory to honour
an earlier eminent engineer Henry William Clothier, 1872
1938, remembered for his pioneer work in furthering the
expansion of the electricity supply industry. From the
outset, it was intended to make these laboratory facilities
available to the supply industry and to manufacturers, universities, polytechnics and HEI for high-voltage research
and development.
4

Critical operational appraisal of facilities

4.1 Rating of equipment tested

Prior to the completion of the new facility in May 1970,
laboratory facilities existed in an old EHV laboratory,
located in the Hebburn main works area, suitable for highvoltage type testing of switchgear of up to 420 kV rating
with certain clearance restrictions. The original design
philosophy was a new UHV test facility to cater mainly for
transmission switchgear equipment etc. rated 765 kV and
above with adequate provision for increasing the test
capacity to levels appropriate to 1.1 MV transmission
systems. Moreover, the new facility would enable overvol-

tage insulation coordination studies to be made on 420 kV

switchgear at impulse test voltages > 2 MV.
Contrary to expectations however, during its first 15
years of operation the extent of UHV laboratory testing
devoted to gear rated at 765 kV, and above, was mainly
concerned with bushings with only one sample at 1.1
MV, and with in-depth testing of tower-window performance for 765 kV ratings. The majority of work has
involved testing equipment rated at 420 or 525 kV (see
Figs. 1, 6-14, 17-20, 23, 24 and 31).
The prediction that air-blast gear would develop to
higher ratings than 420 kV was not fulfilled and the laboratory was involved in research work and development of
the alternative range of SF 6 insulated open-type and
metalclad switchgear and in proving tests for this type of
gear at levels of =$525 kV as illustrated in Figs. 17-20.
In general, this change in technical development from
pressurised-air to SF 6 insulation meant that the laboratory
area was more than adequate (i.e. there was a surplus of
floor area), because of the smaller size of SF 6 equipment
compared to air-blast gear and this resulted in a considerable saving of time which would have been spent in
moving the major test equipment. For example, the 2 MV
transformer was kept in one position most of the time (see
Figs. Id and 17).
For economic reasons, it was decided in 1980 to close
down all the dielectric laboratories in the old works. A
careful appraisal was made of the test equipment most of
which was scrapped and only items in very good condition
were retained. By making full use of this equipment, it was
possible to establish three test areas within the main hall of
the UHV laboratory, without effectively reducing the efficiency and usefulness of the main area (see Appendix 10.1,
Figs. 25, 28 and 30). At the same time, the usefulness of the
erection bay was reconsidered since little effective use had
been made of it. A multipurpose mechanical/thermal/
dielectric area was therefore established in the erection bay
(Figs. 29 and 31a), thus considerably enlarging the scope of
the laboratory. The dielectric area included facilities for
research into insulation materials, including endurance
and accelerated frequency testing (see Appendix 10.1, Figs.
26 and 27).
4.2 Effectiveness of UHV laboratory equipment
4.2.1 2 MV RMS-50 Hz test transformer (see Fig. 3c):
This has been electrically satisfactory with a constant
partial-discharge performance of about 5 pC at 1 MV
Fig. 3
Major items of laboratory equipment
a 2 MV transformer positioned for outdoor use
b 4 MV impulse generator
c Standard laboratory setup for power factor and partial internal discharge testing
of bushings. 950 kV bushing (courtesy Bushing Co. Ltd.)
d View of 2 M spheregaps, control room and galleries
e Main control room
/Screened room
Clothier Laboratory:
Dimensions of test hall for electrical clearance: length 49 m, width 33.5 m, height
32 m
Size of outdoor test pad: width 15.3 m, length 24.4 m
Size of main access door to test pad: width 11.7 m clear, height 19 m clear
Impulse generator for outdoor and indoor use: maximum nominal voltage 4 MV
peak, maximum nominal energy 150 kJ, height 13 m
test transformer for outdoor and indoor use: maximum nominal voltage 2 MV
RMS, primary input 2.7 kV RMS, nominal rating 3.2 MVA, high-voltage maximum
current rating 1.6 A, maximum kVA demand on supply system 750 kVA, height
18.3 m
Capacitive voltage divider: maximum voltage for impulse waves 4 MV peak, for
switching surges 2.8 MV peak, for 50 Hz 2.8 MV peak, height 15 m
Oil test tank: Internal diameter 5.5 m, internal height 5.5 m, suitable for vacuum
impregnation with 0.133 Pa l/s maximum leakage rate, number of inspection ports
12, maximum weight of test piece on top cover 10.2 tonnes, mobile by means of air
cushion

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

505

Fig. 4 Shielding and earthing details [/]

a Interconnecting copper straps
d Plan view of earthing box, earth rod and water hole

b Copper earth rod

e Earthing connection

RMS. Mechanically, however, the considerable weight of

the transformer (203 tonnes) borne by railway type wheels
travelling on rails, resulted in appreciable wear and distortion of the wheels which had to be replaced with a better
grade of steel.
4.2.2 4 MV impulse generator (see Fig. 2d): This in
general was satisfactory, but the following experiences
were noted:
(a) The maximum charge voltage of 200 kV DC per
stage was not achievable due to interstage flashover generated by corona (at about 180 kV DC). One of the main
reasons for this problem was the substantial mechanical
reinforcing incorporated into the finalised design to make
the generator suitable for outdoor use, even under severe
wind conditions. In compensation, two additional stages
were added (bringing the total to 22 stages).
(b) Irregularities were experienced in firing the generator
and to counter these it was found necessary to circulate
dry air through the 'polytron' gaps 24 hours a day. To
improve performance of the gaps and reduce maintenance,
all original gaps were modified gradually with graphite
tips.
(c) The generator was fitted with front and tail resistors
to provide nominal standard waves of 1.2/50 microseconds
and 250/2500 microseconds. It has been recognised that
additional resistor sets should be obtained for greater versatility. Nevertheless, by careful arrangement of the existing resistors, it was still possible to obtain nonstandard
waves such as 1/40, 20/1600 microseconds and others for
certain co-ordination work on 420 kV live-tank
SF6-insulated circuit breakers etc.
4.2.3 Capacitor-resistive potential divider (see Fig. 2d):
This has given excellent service. The divider is calibrated
routinely at intervals of six months against a pure resistive
divider, and checked for impulse waves with uniform field
gaps, and for power-frequency voltages against a 1 MV
standard capacitor of 109.09 pF (shown in foreground of
Fig. 3c).
506

c Earthing box with top cover

/Copper mesh and copper tapes

This divider is normally used for all tests which require

voltage measurements and recording. The two-metre
sphere gaps (Fig. 3d) which are available in the laboratory
are not used for accurate voltage measurements, due to
flashover inconsistencies which can introduce errors of up
to 10%.
4.2.4 WOO pF capacitor: For RIV and partial discharge
testing, a capacitor C (see Fig. 17), of approximately
1000 pF, was built by stacking in vertical construction
existing capacitor units taken from surplus 400 kV CV
transformers. Adequate anticorona buns and shields were
incorporated into the design, the whole structure being
made fully mobile. It is capable of operating up to 1 MV
RMS.
4.2.5 Double-beam type 72 Haefely transient recordersThree recorders are available (see Fig. 3e). These instruments, which are calibrated at regular intervals, have been
fairly reliable. Records are taken with 35 mm cameras with
automatic frame advance operation, which facilitates the
enormous output required in statistical research studies.
Special table projectors with enlargement up to
254 x 203 mm (10 x 8 inches) of the 35 mm records aid
accurate measurements and observation of anomalies in
the wave shapes.
4.2.6 Screening: Although the laboratory control room is
screened from the test hall, the screening is not adequate
when operating equipment for the observation of flashover
phenomena and image enhancing. A completely screened
room was designed and manufactured for this purpose. It
can be deposited at any convenient location within the test
hall on an insulated sheet, so that one-point earthing can
be applied (Fig. 3/). So far, some difficulties with electrical
interference have not been completely resolved.
4.3 Earthing system
The earthing system is based on an underfloor copper
mesh linking a multirod arrangement in the subsoil, access
IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

being obtained by screwing in connectors at the head of

the rods. The earth system is tied to the metal walls of the
building [1-3] forming a gigantic Faraday cage. Some of
the details of copper mesh, rod connections, interconnections to the building walls etc. are shown in Fig. 4 and
discussed in Reference 1.
It has been found that with flashover in SF6-insulated
gear, due to the steep collapse of voltage ( x 1 MV//is)

multisparkover of the earthed points has been consistently

experienced. This has led to problems in laboratory protective circuits. Because of the variety of test objects to be
handled in the test hall, it was not thought practical to
obviate these sparkover phenomena by mounting all
equipment on large thick aluminium plates.
4.4 Outdoor test facility
An outdoor test pad was provided outside the main door
opposite the control room for the following reasons:
(a) additional electrical clearance not obtainable within
the building for testing at higher ratings than 765 kV
{b) additional test area facility when the main hall was
engaged in long-term testing
(c) its close proximity to adjacent high-power shortcircuit test facilities.
Earlier prevailing weather studies had indicated the feasability of outdoor testing. In the first few years, this
facility has only been used infrequently since the internal
laboratory clearances have been more than adequate for
the work undertaken with particular reference to metalclad
SF 6 equipment. Its usefulness, however, for the future
remains for possible application to ultra-high-voltage
transmission-line hardware and experimental lengths of
transmission line for which there is adequate room to
accommodate up to 150 m. Further application is possible
to special situations when the combined facilities of the
short-circuit station and ultra-high-voltage laboratory may
be deployed.
The outdoor test facility has been used extensively
during the past five years for combined mechanical/
electrical operational proving tests on 420 kV metalclad
switchgear. This is clearly illustrated in Appendix 10.1 by
the example presented in Fig. 3 Id and e.
4.5 Artificial-rain equipment
4.5.1 Fixed standard equipment: To date, the design
philosophy of the rain-water equipment has been fully justified. The design incorporated:

Fig. 5
General view of wet-testing assemblies
Improved nozzle assembly
b View of artificial rain catchment area: for circuit breaker, surge arrester or disconnect isolator tests [2]

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

Set up for bushing wet tests showing oil-tank wet-test assembly and catchment
area

(i) automatic mixing of the tap water and deionised

water to provide any required resistivity
(ii) possibility of storing water with two different values
of resistivity separately in the storage vessels, for alternative immediate use
(iii) collection of the rain water from the test piece and
return at high pressure and high speed to the pressurised
storage vessels via an intermediate open vessel.
The nozzles comply with IEC 60-1 regulations regarding the mandatory dimensions. The rear chamber of the
nozzle assembly has been designed to give a better water
flow; restriction has been imposed on the angular movement of the stem to prevent cutoff and obstruction of the
water flow. The frames supporting the nozzle assemblies
allow each row of nozzles to be rotated by up to 90 (see
Fig. 5a).
The catchment basin at the base of the test pieces is
built up with sheets of polythene for each test programme
since the floor cannot be used for this purpose, as it was
kept flat for air-cushion transportation. This disadvantage
was partly justified by the flexibility afforded by this technique in placing the test objects anywhere in the test hall
(see Fig. 5b and c).
4.5.2 Special rain equipment: The rain equipment just
described forms the fixed installation, and is located on the
wall opposite the control room. There are occasions when
such a standard installation is unsuitable, and special
arrangements have been devised. In the case of bushings,
mounted in the oil tanks, a nozzle frame has been mounted
on a mobile 'beanstalk', where the height is controlled
hydraulically. The frame is ideally dimensioned to produce
the required rainfall on such a narrow and long test piece
as a bushing (see Fig. 5c). In the case of a tower window, a
frame was built along the top of the tower with nozzles

pointing upwards so that the required even rainfall could

be produced (see Figs. 15b and 15d).
4.6 Oil test equipment
The oil system, which comprises underground storage
tanks (127 m 3 (28000 gallons)), pumping station, streamline purifier and conditioner, and delivery pipes to outlets
in the centre of the laboratory floor area, has been satisfactory.
There are two test tanks, mainly used for testing bushings. The first one is of 127 m3 (28000 gallons) capacity
(Fig. 3c) and can be sealed for vacuum impregnation (if
required); it is mobile with skirted air cushion. The second
tank (Fig. 5c) has been acquired in recent years and
although smaller than the first, can be used for bushings
up to 765 kV rating. The advantage of this tank is that in
the case of transformer bushings, the smaller test tank
reproduced more accurately the stresses existing in actual
power transformers.
4.7 General movement of objects and cranage
All the floors in the test hall, erection bay and on the
outside test pad, were constructed flat to close tolerances,
so that objects, test pieces etc., could be moved about
using air-cushion-skirt principles (see Fig. 3c). In practice,
when moving objects, the following difficulties were experienced : instability of large or high structures causing oscillations of the air pads, failure of the air cushion and
bottoming of the load onto the floor.
The crane is of 7 ton capacity and runs the whole length
of the test hall with a beam equal to the width of the hall
at a height just below the roof. The crane is adequate for
the work required but suffers from pendulum oscillations
due to the 30.5 m drop of the crane hook, and is normally
supplemented with mobile cranes.
5

Scope and range of dielectric activities

While the modern UHV laboratory facilities outlined in

this paper are mainly devoted to switchgear product
research, development, quality control and certification,
many of the experimental techniques involved are equally
applicable to testing equipment for commercial operations

Fig. 6
Transportable metaldad switchgear assemblies prior to routine
dielectric testing
a Assembly mounted on trailer
b Circuit breaker assembly, with temporary 800 kVfibre-glasstest bushing, being
moved into works test area using multipalette systems
508

IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

not connected with switchgear. The laboratory and test

facilities, including consultancy services and an extensive
library of electrostatic field and power-system computer
programs have been made available to outside clients on a
confidential contractual basis for many years.
An indication of the scope of dielectric activities undertaken within the present integrated UHV complex during
the past 15 years can be seen from the following groupings:
(i) barrier flashover characteristics [8, 13]
(ii) GIS site installation, quality and testing procedures
[9, 10]
(iii) particle-initiated breakdown [11, 13]
(iv) insulation coordination [14-18]
(v) laboratory testing techniques [1, 2, 19-21]
(vi) GIS backparts and interrupter developments
[23-28]
(vii) general contractual testing [22, 29-32]
(viii) insulation materials evaluation [33-37]
(ix) gas breakdown characteristics for large practical
electrode systems [4-7].
Extensive use was made of established field analysis and
breakdown estimation techniques [26]. Technical details
relating to most of these aspects are fully covered in the
original reference publications and only a brief general
appraisal of some salient work carried out in the UHV
laboratory area is given in Section 6.
6

Fig. 7

General view of 2.6 MV test rig and SF,,gas recovery plant [7]

Fig. 8

400/525 kV development rig for SF6 metalclad switchgear

Appraisal of salient examples of UHV laboratory

utilisation

6.1 Dielectric properties of pressurised SF6

As illustrated in Section 5, the insulation group of
researchers in the authors company have been actively
involved in many aspects of dielectric research and development work during the past 20 years. The emphasis has
been on determining the breakdown and flashover characteristics of gas gaps and support insulation, the work being
directly relevant to the design of gas insulated switchgear
equipment (GIS). The laboratory work, which involved the
use of large test rigs (e.g. Figs. 6-9), had five main objectives :
(a) Before the first 300/420 kV GIS equipment was produced in the UK it was vital to establish reliable clearances. Consequently, it was necessary to embark on
research programmes to provide comprehensive design
data; reproduced in Figs. 10-12 [7, 13].
(b) It was also important to carry out a considerable
amount of testing, using video techniques, to gain an
appreciation of the influence of particulate contamination

on the attainable withstand capabilities of GIS (see Fig.

12).
(c) In addition, to carrying out short-term studies it was
necessary to determine projected in-service or long-term
characteristics of GIS.

Fig. 9
IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

Typical schematic of a 420/525 kV GIS

509

(d) The broad question of insulation coordination for

GIS had also to be resolved by studying the interrelationship between GIS voltage/time [13, 15-18] characteristics and those of line gaps and surge arresters (see Fig.
13).
(e) Finally, effective factory quality control, works and
site erection testing procedures had to be established. Electrically, each GIS subassembly unit was subjected to a

high-voltage test of one minute duration in the works,

before despatch to site; this test was repeated on site prior
to commissioning. Extensive laboratory studies have been
.2.1 m gap
.2.5m gap

2.0

0.1

10
time, us

100

Fig. 13
Insulation co-ordination diagram [/J]
A Typical V/t characteristics of 420 kV GIS
B Representative characteristics of 396 kV ZnO arrester
C Lower limit curve of a line gap for specific gap settings
(i) upper limit 40 kA amplitude
(ii) lower limit 3 kA amplitude

0.6
0.3
0.4
0.5
pressure, MPa
Fig. 1 0
Lightning and switching impulse V50 levels in SF6 for perturbed
cylinder configuration
0.1

0.2

0.1
a
Fig. 11A

0.2

0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
b
pressure,MPa
Withstand characteristics of epoxy resin support insulator in

Fig. 11 B
Surface flashover marks on a 400/525 kV cast-resin insulator
after extensive laboratory testing

1000

SF 6 0.55 MPa
jclean withstandfl min)J

600
in

630KV works test level

1600

520kV routine test level

>

, ^ 4 2 0 ^ site test level

400
420 kV system

44

200 -phas.e voltage

typical particle 1
lift off voltage
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
particle size,mm
Fig. 1 2
50 Hz flashover characteristics of epoxy resin conical spacers
under varying degree of metallic contamination [ / i ]
510

carried out by the authors to evaluate the effectiveness of

various site-commissioning test procedures for large GIS
installations [9]. In addition, various on-line monitoring
techniques have been under development in recent years
which should result in still further improvements in service
reliability in SF6-insulated switchgear.f
One on-line monitoring technique examined in the
laboratory by the authors recently [10], related to a
chemical SO2 detection method. If flashover occurs during
any test in SF6-insulated GIS, it is important to be able to
distinguish between a nonself-restoring surface flashover
of the cast-resin support barriers and self-restoring flashover across gas gaps. Examples of experimental tests based
on this chemical approach are shown in Fig. I4a-e.
Preliminary 50 Hz studies involved full-scale laboratory
experiments which were established on GIS assemblies
(Fig. 14a-/) to assess the comparative sensitivity of this
SO2 detection technique. These tests, without absorbent,
indicated the possibility of clearly differentiating between
gas-gap and insulator gas-to-surface flashover, with an
SO2 concentration differing by a factor x 1000 (e.g. Fig.
14a). Using an SF 6 test volume of 350 1 at 0.55 MPa, with
molecular sieves fitted, a family of curves was produced
(Fig. He) giving the time taken to obtain readings of SO2
concentrations against time elapsed after flashover [10]. It
was noted that even after 14 hours had elapsed following a
single 50 Hz spacer flashover, significant concentrations of
SO2 were detectable.
Three controlled-energy impulse studies were also
reported using different energies and chamber volumes.
For purposes of direct comparison, results from these
impulse studies are shown in Fig. 14/, curves 2, 3 and 4
respectively, together with the 50 Hz results reproduced in
curve 1. All results refer to SO2 detection reading of 15.
These curves clearly demonstrate the relationship of gas
volume, arc energy and disposition of the arc relative to
the gas sampling points, in the presence of a molecular
sieve absorbent, against elapsed time following flashover
event [10]. These controlled-energy impulse tests supported by TNA studies provided a useful means of assessing the sensitivity of the simple SO2 detection method. The
f B.F. Hampton (CERL) is currently at the forefront of novel developments relating
to site testing of GIS
IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

experiments demonstrated that the technique is clearly

able to differentiate between a gas-gap or spacer flashover
in GIS assemblies. The authors point out that further
work is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of this test
technique when referred and applied to larger GIS gas
zones under site conditions [10],
Special purpose-built large test rigs and associated
bushings were designed to be used for much of the above
studies [7]; these, together with digital programs to facilitate correlation of test data and gas handling equipment
(Fig. 7) enabled essential technical information to be
acquired. The recent introduction of video library and
recording techniques, to augment standard and high-speed
cameras, has provided a valuable new diagnostic monitoring capability which can be used to study in detail the
influence of particles in GIS and correlate particle position
with partial discharge level etc. [13].

6.2 Switching impulse strength of 765 kV tower

window
For the tower-window study (Fig. 15), sponsored by the
combined efforts of ERA UK Manufacturers/Consultants [30], it was necessary to build a structure 19.5 m
high with a window width of 15 m (18 m width overall).
The corresponding laboratory height and width dimensions are 32 and 34 m, showing that there were no difficulties in accommodating such structures. The frame
sections were preassembled elsewhere, so that the time of
erection in the test hall could be minimised, effectively
reducing costs because of the high charges of occupation.
To increase stability of the structure, which could not be
bolted to the laboratory floor, (a precaution used to preserve the integrity of the underlying earth mat), ties to the
building stanchions were used.
An additional moveable box trusss was added to vary

2 S 10 IS 2025 30

(5)
-- #

@ @ (20) (25) (30

,30)

-*-

tubeG
60

120

tube C

I '

tube B
tube A

0
8
12
16
20
tim e required to obtain reading,minutes

Fig. 14
Results from a recent S02 detection study [Iff]
a Gastec SO2 detector tube
(i) after repeated gas gap flashovers
(ii) after one flashover across solid insulation
b, c, d Laboratory GIS test arranagements (SF6 al 0.55 MPa)
B bauxite spacer
SP sampling point
O observation port
M molecular sieve container
Sg position of Al spike gas breakdown
Ss position of Al spikes spacer flashover
Relationship between time and SO2 concentration O (arbitrary scale)
10
15
20
time after flashover, hours
4 epoxy/alumina spacer, vol. 650 I, energy 712 J, impulse
IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

511

Fig. 15
/

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

/
"S
S.

S,

765 kV simulated tower window investigation [3ff]

a General view of tower arrangement

b Main tower parameters
c General view showing corona rings
d Arrangement simulating heavy wetting condition (nozzles spraying upw
(average values 1.5-2.0 mm/minute)

Fig. 16

V/t characteristics for 1.2/50 us impulses

Test assemblies considered:

\
\

S
<

\2

15m

System

Description of assembly

Sketch

A
B
C

2.54 m rod gap (as Fig. 1)

2.08 m rod gap (as Fig. 1)
1.83 m rod gap (as Fig. 1)

1.91 m ball electrodes

suspension insulator string
1.91 m ball electrodes
tension insulator string
1.91 m rod-rod gap
height/gap distance = 4

E
F
G

1.91 m arcing horn gap

without insulators

0.71 m rod gap (as Fig. 1)

r\

a General view of test assembly also showing a typical air breakdown (2.4 MV peak,
1.2/50 us)
b-e Experimental results with theoretical curves for 2.54 m, 2.08 m and 1.83 mm
gaps (systems A, B & C)
experiment
theory
/, g Experimental results for 1.91 m gaps
rod-rod gap with height/gap-distance ratio of 4

suspension string insulator and fall electrode (system D)

O
tension string insulator and ball electrode (system E)
arcing horn gap without string insulator (system G)
2.6

5 2.2 -

512

IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pi. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

the clearance (see Fig. 15b) of the V-string assembly to the

top truss, and a corresponding lower truss inclined 45 to
the vertical, provided simpler variations in clearance at the
bottom end.
The investigation on the V-string assembly was based
on wet switching impulse performance. A problem arose
since the artificial rain (according to existing specifications
IEC 60-1) has to fall on the insulators at 45 to the vertical, and is intended to be directed into the 'window'. At the
required IEC precipitation rate of 1.5-2 mm, it is not possible to obtain a throw greater than 10-10.5 m (methods
have been tried in other laboratories such as vibrating
nozzles, with only slight improvement). However, since the
transmission line extended about 7 m outside the 'window'
and a further 10 m of electrical clearance was required
between the end of the transmission line and the earthed
wet frame, a total throw of 17 m was required for the rainwater. Consequently, it was not possible to follow IEC
specification and an alternative technique was devised.
In this particular study, the V-strings were set at 90 to
each other and 45 to the vertical. It was therefore possible, still keeping within the letter of the specification
requirements, to mount the nozzles at the top of the structure with the rain directed upwards so that the water when
falling (Fig. 15d) was evenly distributed and fell vertically
on the porcelain insulators, but at the required angle of
45 to the plane of the discs. After a series of preliminary
tests to establish the most onerous switching impulse
waves and polarity, further lengthy test programmes were
carried out based on a positive-polarity switching impulse
wave of 100/1650 microseconds. The method adopted in
applying the test voltages was a statistical procedure,
based on a double up-and-down transformed response
devised by Ouyang and Ibbott*f. Results of the tests and
procedures are discussed elsewhere [30].
6.3 Air-breakdown studies
Compared to the comprehensive and systematic work
undertaken by EDF (France), IREQ (Canada), CERL
OUYANG, M.: Proc. IEE, 1966,113, (11), p. 1835
t IBBOTT, J.D.: BEAMA Conference, Brighton, United Kingdom, May 1974, p.
179

(UK) etc. over the years, comparatively limited studies

have been carried out in the UHV laboratory to date in an
effort to determine the phenomena associated with the
breakdown of very large airgaps. Rather, the emphasis has
been in establishing effective insulation coordination in
GIS. Nevertheless, a valuable programme of testing has
recently been reported [18] which describes an analytical
and experimental laboratory study to establish voltage/
time characteristics for rod gaps of 254, 208 and 183 cm
(100, 82 and 72 inches) subjected to lightning and switching impulses (see Fig. I6a-h).
The availability of accurate voltage/time curves of protective gaps are essential for the evaluation of the lightning
performance of transmission lines. In addition, the behaviour of these gaps under nonstandard lightning waveshapes must be ascertained in order to assess their
protective ability with particular reference to fast-fronted
voltage surges to which some items of plant are highly susceptible. Watson et al. [18] describe the experimental techniques used and the results obtained from a series of tests
carried out on long airgaps. A comparison of these results
with a recently developed analytical model for calculating
time to breakdown of such gaps has also been made.
Various gap configurations were investigated (Fig. 16a and
b) in order to determine whether any improvement in the
operating speed, i.e. faster breakdown time, for fast-fronted
surges, can be made.
A preliminary attempt was also made [18] to examine
available discharge models to assess their value in predicting V/t characteristics of line gaps as shown typically in
Fig. 16b. A theoretical model based on a method described
by Shindo and Suzuki* has been used to predict V/t characteristics of the line gaps investigated in this study. The
modelling technique has been used in this investigation for
lightning impulses and also some nonstandard waveforms.
The model is based on equations for the leader development velocity v and the predischarge current i.
Fig. I6c-h show the theoretical V/t characteristics
plotted together with corresponding experimental results
obtained from the present study. The agreement between
the experimental and the theoretical values is very good
which gives confidence to develop these modelling techniques further, possibly along the lines suggested by the
current studies of CIGRE SC33, WG 33.06.
6.4 Circuit-breaker testing
The generous space available in the main test hall makes
normal routine testing, type or development testing of
SHINDO, T., and SUZUKI, T.: Paper 84 SM 685-4, July 1984

Fig. 17
IEE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pi. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

Typical disposition of laboratory and test equipment

circuit breakers a straightforward exercise and no significant difficulties have been encountered [12, 27] during the
extensive testing of many diverse live-tank and dead-tank
circuit breakers and associated ancillary apparatus (Figs.
1, 6, 17-19). Fig. 20 provides an indication of the stages in
the evolution of a 60 kA transmission circuit-breaker
design for 420/520 kV systems. Such incremental development, with marked reduction in series breaks per phase,
has been achieved by switchgear designers obtaining a

F i g. 18
A ir-flashover studies
a during dry dielectric overvoltage tests (lightning impulse > 3 MV)
b during preapplied pollution tests using sail/clay mixture (voltage 250 kV RMS)

much better 'feel' for the complex arc-interruption phenomena [27] in the SF 6 interrupter units, ably assisted by the
adoption of effective dielectric principles using analytical
field analysis and breakdown estimation techniques. Considerable progress has been made in both arc-interruption
and dielectric modelling techniques in recent years as more
reliable experimental data becomes available [7, 13, 27,
28].

Recent changes in dielectric specifications have resulted

in the need for more sophisticated test procedures such as
phase-phase and bias-testing techniques.
Laboratory staff have participated in IEC (TC28) and
BSI deliberations on revision to relevant specifications.

6-break
4-break
3-break
2-break 1-break
(1976)
(end 1976)
(1979)
(1981)
(1985)
Fig. 20
Stages in the evolution of a 420 kV dead-lank circuit breaker

1281

For bias testing, simultaneous application of powerfrequency and lightning impulse voltage to circuit breakers
or gas-insulated substation equipment (GIS) is required. A
typical circuit for bias testing is shown in Fig. 21. Here
again, the generous clearances available in the test hall,
together with the mobility of test equipment (e.g. 2 MV
transformer and 4 MV impulse generator) have enabled
these tests to be performed effectively. Obviously, special
care is required to ensure adequate protection of test
transformer from impulse test voltages.

impulse
generator
Fig. 19
View of 420 kV SPD (2 break) metalclad circuit breaker
assembled in main UHV hall for type testing
Two vertically mounted porcelain inlet bushings and horizontal connecting busbar
are also shown which enables complete type and conjunctive bias testing to be
carried out on this vertically-mounted metalclad switchgear assembly. The photograph indicates the size of main hall which provides adequate air clearances for
more than one test object to be assembled at the same time so minimising erection delays.
514

DC
charger

test object

protective

T
differential voltmeter

transformer.

ha

point-onwave
selector transient recorder
Fig. 21

50 Hz
sample voltage

Test circuit for bias testing GIS

1EE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

6.5 Impulse - voltage measuring system

6.5.1 Analysis: With the increasing amount of development and basic research work being undertaken at all
transmission voltages from UHV downwards, the requirements of the impulse-voltage measuring systems used are
becoming necessarily more stringent. In order to obtain
maximum information about the impulse wave, the accuracy limitations of the measuring system must first be
established and understood. Some general points can be
made first:
(a) Measuring tasks may vary from the relatively simple
one of recording with low error a full or tail-chopped
1.2/50 fis impulse wave (see Fig. 22a, waveforms (i), (ii)) to
the more difficult problems involving a front-chopped
impulse or one having partial (layer) breakdown of the
solid insulation under test, usually about the peak of the
impulse (waveforms (iii), (iv)).
(b) A further difficult measurement to be made, is of the
extent and magnitude of any oscillations occurring at the
test object. The occurrence of these voltage wave shapes in
high-voltage development work is quite common, especially the full and tail-chopped waves. Front-chopped
waves down to chopping times of about only 0.4 [is are
often met, particularly when testing equipment performance for insulation coordination.
(c) Partial breakdown of insulation under test (Fig. 22a
waveform (iv)) can occur on test objects having multiplelayer insulation (e.g. bushings, current transformers, capacitors etc.).
(d) Almost all impulse waves recorded exhibit oscillations whose significance must be analysed with regard to

compliance with the relevant specification and errors in

peak voltage and waveshape measurements.
(e) Particular problems can be encountered with UHV
impulse measuring systems, suitable for the measurement
of fast transients, due to the large dimensions involved.
(/) 'Response time' and step response of any measuring
system are two major criteria in determining its suitability
for fast-transient measurement [38-41].
During the past 20 years, authoritative work on UHV
divider response have been undertaken elsewhere by Creed
and Collins and also Zaengl. However, for the purposes of
the present paper it is adequate to highlight some of the
early work undertaken by Richardson.
Richardson and Ryan [21] reported on the general construction and described the testing technique to assess the
step response of the 4 MV impulse measuring system in
the authors' UHV laboratory. An equivalent circuit, reproduced in Fig. 22b, was evolved, upon which the analytical
method was based and computational aspects of the
digital technique were briefly discussed. Although the
influence of several circuit parameters were considered it is
sufficient to pick out two aspects at present; the effects of
(i) high-voltage lead damping resistor RD and (ii) highvoltage lead length / and surge impedance Z o on step
response. A typical set of response curves for Z o = 300,
/ = 9 m and a terminating capacitance Cp = 7.5 pF are
shown in Fig. 22c. It can be seen that it is principally the
area of the first overshoot T2, which determines the
response time T where, as illustrated in the insert to Fig.
22c

Fig. 22

Study of response of impulse voltage measuring system [ 2 / ]

a Typical voltage shapes to be measured

b Equivalent circuit of impulse measuring system
c Effect of HV lead damping resistor on step response
Z o = 300 n , C p = 7.5 pF, / = 9 m
T = T, - T2 + T3 - T4
d Effect of HV lead strength on step response (RJZ0 = 0.5)
Z o = 300 n , C , = 250 p F
initial response referred to 3 m lead
(,
metres

Response parameters, ns

3
6
9

39.5 3.5 36.0

40.6 8.4 32.2
42.7 10.9 31.8

T,

T2

e Effect of HV lead length on step response (RD/Z0 = 0.167)

Z o = 300fi,Cr = 250 p F
initial response referred to 3 m lead

100
d

200
ns

300

400 0

100
'

200
ns

300

I,
metres

Response parameters, ns

3
6
9

23.2 24.1
6.35
27.9 34.3 11.25
34.0 42.5

/Effect of HV lead surge impedance on step response (SD/Z0 = 1.0)

/ = 9 m, C, = 7.5 pF
Z o , 1 Response time T, ns
300
500
580

24.3
25.4
26.5

g Effect of HV lead surge impedance on step response ( R o / Z 0 = 0.5)

/ = 9 m, C p = 7.5 pF
Zo, n

100

200

1EE PROCEEDINGS,

300

400

100

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

200

1986

300

300
500
580

Response time T, ns
9.2
17.8
19.2

Briefly, with fast-response voltage dividers, the response

time can be significantly affected by RD.
Fig. 22d, e and /, g, respectively, illustrate interesting
results obtained by Richardson due to (i) effects of HV lead
length on step response for different values of damping
resistor (RD) and (ii) effects of HV lead surge impedance on
the step response for different values of damping resistor.
The results of this computer-aided analysis [21] were validated by laboratory testing and such characteristics were
subsequently well documented in laboratory test manuals
for future reference.
6.5.2 Practical considerations: Having made a full
appraisal of the theoretical measuring system and the preferred layout of measurement equipment, it is important to
determine the long-term reliability and accuracy of one selected measuring system to avoid the necessity of frequent
and even daily repeated calibrations, which would interrupt a series of tests or even cause postponement of them,
a procedure very costly in time and money.
The particular measuring system selected always comprises a combination of the ASEA 4 MV-capacitorresistive divider in conjunction with denned low-voltage
arm(s), coaxial cable and Haefely CRO.
Other methods of measurement in the laboratory
included 2-metre sphere gaps for checking and measuring
high-voltage peak values, but due to erratic fiashover characteristics up to 10% errors were experienced. Very little
improvement was obtained by UV ionising procedures.
Eventually, uniform field gaps of 4 feet diameter were
installed with which an accuracy of better than 1% was
achieved. A pure resistance divider (Haefely) with capacitance grading is used for calibrating the ASEA divider,
which is supplemented by cross referencing to the uniform
field gaps.
Finally, it must be stressed that theoretical considerations cannot be divorced from the practical reality of long
leads connecting the impulse generator with the test piece
and the potential divider. Also, the practical problem exists
of reducing the inductive effects of loops whilst retaining
adequate clearances and dealing with physically large test
components and test pieces which occupy considerable
areas of the UHV laboratory floor.
6.6 General and contractual H V testing
In addition to extended investigations of the types
described in Sections 6.1-6.4, there has been considerable
activity in type testing, proving tests and routine pro-

duction testing. In the case of routine testing, either the

work could not be done in the works' extensive highvoltage test facilities, due to technical reasons or during
periods of high production.
The regular practice of routine testing in the UHV
laboratory cannot be fully defended on economic grounds,
but when necessary, the costs can be considerably reduced
by erecting a number of similar test pieces contemporaneously (for which there is ample floor space and electrical
clearance) and testing them in quick succession.
Another advantage of the available floorspace was the
fact that providing operating voltages are not too high
tests could be interrupted on one particular test piece,
and work continued on another which had been suitably
erected on the floor. Fig. 19 shows, in fact an arrangement
for testing a 420 kV dead-tank SF 6 circuit breaker, whilst
phases of a live-tank 420 kV circuit breaker, placed elsewhere, were awaiting tests. At the same time, a rig was also
erected on the floor for routine testing of cast-resin
support barriers.
With regard to contractual work, a considerable
amount of type and routine testing has been carried out on
500 kV and 765 kV bushings, and in particular transformer bushings. For the latter, test requirements for the
oil are stringent (less than 10 parts in 106 of moisture,
usually 4 parts in 106 and test-cell breakdown in excess of
60 kV) and can be more readily achieved by using the
smaller of the two oil test tanks available (Fig. 5c). The
smaller tank could be sealed more effectively against moisture ingress during the artificial rain tests.
Although the laboratory was designed specifically for
testing power-engineering equipment, it has been used
because of its lightning voltage capability for the contractual testing with electrogeometric models of aircraft
(Fig. 23). After proving the validity of the scale techniques,
and contributing to a better understanding of the physics

Fig. 23

Aircraft lightning studies using simplified models [29]

Fig. 24
BAC Nimrod lightning strike studies laboratory impulse tests on front radome
Laboratory tests on aircraft to evaluate the probability of lightning strike have underlined the importance of
multicamera operation to obtain a three dimensional picture of the exact point of strike. Similar techniques
have also been used in assessing voltage coordination in GIS and live-tank circuit breakers, line gaps etc.
516

1EE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

of long sparks and lightning discharges [29]. Later work

was carried out on full-size aircraft radomes as fitted fore
and aft to AEW Nimrods (UKAEA Culham being the
main project contractor) to evaluate lightning protection
(see Fig. 24). Further studies have recently been reported
[31,32].
For the economic accountability of an UHV laboratory,
it is necessary to operate test programmes with very tight
schedules leaving only very limited opportunity for investigating new testing techniques or carrying out maintenance.
Preferably the latter should be carried out outside normal
working hours. Nevertheless, new techniques must be
regularly explored to keep the facilities competitive.
For this reason, considerable laboratory time has been
set aside recently for conjunctive impulse and powerfrequency testing. After designing the necessary equipment
for point-on-wave operation the following cases have been
successfully studied:
(a) AC and impulse applied to the same pole as for
bushing CTs etc.
(b) AC and impulse applied to opposite poles as with
open breaks of a circuit breaker.

Final comments and conclusions

In recent years, the major emphasis in research and development has shifted from air blast to SF6-insulated livetank and metalclad switchgear. This has been illustrated
by the more fundamental work carried out during this
period of SF 6 breakdown phenomena and on particulate
initiated breakdown in SF6/solid insulation systems [7, 13,
27, 28]. In addition, preparatory to new designs, extensive
insulation co-ordination studies have been undertaken
within this UHV laboratory and in collaboration with
power-systems specialists.
Because of the trend towards compact SF 6 switchgear,
the electrical clearances available within the laboratory
have been more than adequate. Consequently, it has
proved possible to introduce additional dielectric facilities
within the UHV laboratory complex for research,
distribution equipment testing, insulation material evaluation with necessary ancillary mechanical/thermal proving
capabilities [25, 36, 37]. This change from the original
UHV laboratory design philosophy has resulted in establishing a complete dielectric complex on one site, covering
all ratings from distribution up to UHV transmission
levels. These supplementary test facilities are illustrated in
Appendix 10.1 with appropriate explanatory captions.
As discussed in Section 4, numerous technical problems
have been encountered with laboratory test equipment,
but the difficulties experienced have been of a minor
nature rather than of fundamental importance. Moreover,
the effectiveness of the laboratory has to be judged in relation to what has been accomplished in the first 15 years
approximately of its life, and the following achievements
are here summarised.
(a) A major contribution to the fundamental development of 300, 420 and 525 kV SF6-rated switchgear by the
dielectric evaluation of representative electrode arrangements of practical GIS.
(b) Type and proving tests on air-blast and SF 6 switchgear, bushings etc. by extensive test programmes. Investigations into particulate contamination and potential
causes of breakdown in SF 6 GIS.
(c) Evaluation, backed up by computer techniques, of
the high-voltage measurements carried out in the laboratory. This work was necessary for establishing confidence
IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

in the high-voltage work undertaken and in the results

obtained.
(d) Development of test equipment and test methods for
RIV and partial discharge investigations and testing at
very high voltages up to 1 MV RMS.
(e) Experimental techniques: design and fabrication of
nozzles, support frames, automatic mixing plant for artificial rain testing which can operate under continuous
testing conditions and diversified test objects and development of conjunctive-impulse/power-frequency test procedures and techniques.
(/) Considerable diversification in the extensive work
undertaken for outside customers has included:
(i) tests on transmission-line hardware
(ii) tower window for 765 kV transmission lines
(iii) performance of porcelain bushings etc. (inclined
at various angles to the vertical) typical of outdoor
transformers, subjected to rain and washing programmes (or preapplied pollution)
(iv) Lightning-strike studies on simulated scaled aircraft models followed by studies on full-scale radomes,
as fitted to aircraft.
In conclusion, the laboratory has been a very effective
'tool' in the research, development and routine testing
undertaken. The design of the laboratory layout has made
it possible, in the last few years, to make useful additions
to the facilities thus considerably increasing and extending
the testing potential of the laboratory complex.
From a national point of view, it is to be noted that this
laboratory, and that at CERL Leatherhead represent in
1986 the only UHV testing facilities available in the UK.
This disappointing state of affairs, with consequential
reduction in personnel expertise, compares very unfavourably with the testing and manpower resources available
especially in Japan, Canada, France, Italy, Germany and
the USSR.
8

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank the Directors of NEI Reyrolle

Ltd., for permission to publish this paper. Thanks are also
due to their former colleagues for their continued support
and assistance over the years. The authors gratefully
acknowledge permission to reproduce extensively from
laboratory contractual research studies undertaken for
various organisations over the years and fully acknowledged in the original publication sources.
9

References

1 LEGG, D., RYAN, H.M., and WHISKARD, J.: 'A new British ultrahigh voltage laboratory'. Presented at IEEE Winter Power Meeting,
New York, 1972, Paper C72 224-9. Also reviewed in Reyrolle Parsons
Rev., summer 1971,1,(1), pp. 11-16
2 RYAN, H.M., and WHISKARD, J.: 'Recent studies in the Clothier
Laboratory', Reyrolle Parsons Rev., winter 1974/75, 2, (2), pp. 24-28
3 KARADY, G., HYLTEN-CAVALLIUS, N.: 'Electromagnetic shielding of high voltage laboratories'. IEEE Trans. Paper 70 TP 604-PWR
(1970).
4 RYAN, H.M., and WATSON, W.L.: 'Electrical breakdown and
voltage-time characteristics in SF 6 at high pressures'. Presented at
IEEE PES Summer Power Meeting, Portland Oregon, 1976, Paper
F76 390-5. Based on paper presented at the International High
Voltage Symposium, Zurich, September 1975, pp. 12-18 (Annexe).
Also reviewed in Reyrolle Parsons Rev., winter 1975/76, 2, (4), pp.
24-28
5 RYAN, H.M., WATSON, W.L., DALE, S.J., TEDFORD, D.J.,
KURIMOTO, A., BANFORD, H.M., and HAMPTON, B.F.:
'Factors affecting the insulation strength of SF 6 filled systems'.
CIGRE, 1976, Paper 15.02
6 WATSON, W.L., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Breakdown and voltage-time

517

characteristics in SF 6 for voltages in the range 0.62 M V , IEE Conf.

Publ. 143, 1976, pp. 153-156
7 RYAN, H.M., and WATSON, W.L.: 'Impulse breakdown characteristics in SF 6 for non-uniform field gaps'. CIGRE, 1978, Paper 15.01
8 RYAN, H.M., and WATSON, W.L.: 'Breakdown characteristics in
SF 6 for non-uniform field gaps and support insulation for voltages in
the range 0.8-2 M V . Presented at 1976 IEEE Conference on Communication and Power, Montreal, October 1976, pp. 501-504
9 RYAN, H.M., and MILNE, D.: 'Dielectric testing of GIS: Review of
test procedures and evaluation of test results'. CIGRE Colloquium,
Edinburgh, 1983, SC33, Paper 33-83
10 RYAN, H.M., MILNE, D., and POWELL, C.W.: 'Site testing and the
evaluation of a technique to differentiate between a gas or spacer
flashover in SF 6 GIS'. Presented at Symposium on Gas Insulated
Substation Technology and Practice, Toronto, Canada, September
1985, Paper K2
11 RYAN, H.M., and MILNE, D.: 'Breakdown performance studies in
SF 6 under clean and contaminated conditions', 4th Int. Symp. HV
Eng., Athens, 1983, Paper 34-12
12 RYAN, H.M., ALI, S.M.G., and POWELL, C.W.: 'Field computation
relating to switchgear design', Ibid., Paper 12-12
13 RYAN, H.M., LIGHTLE, D., and MILNE, D.: 'Factors influencing
dielectric performance of SF 6 insulated GIS', IEEE Trans., 1985,
PAS-104, (6), pp. 1527-1535
14 RYAN, H.M., and POWELL, C.W.: '50 Hz breakdown characteristics of long air gaps'. IEE Conf. Publ. 90, 1972, pp. 30-32
15 RYAN, H.M., WATSON, W.L., HOGG, W.D., and RITCHIE, W.M.:
'Effects of system overvoltages on insulation coordination requirements for EHV open type and metalclad installations'. Presented at
International Conference on the Design and Application of EHV Substations, London, 22-24th November 1977
16 WATSON, W., HOWIE, R.B., RYAN, H.M., IRWIN, T., HOGG,
W.D., and PETTY, H.C.: 'Insulation coordination of a 420 kV SF 6
insulated substation in the UK'. CIGRE, 1984, Paper 33.05
17 RYAN, H.M., FLYNN, A , and WATSON, W.: 'Voltage-time characteristics of long air-gaps'. Presented at 8th International GDC,
Oxford, September 1985, pp. 368-373
18 WATSON, W., FLYNN, A., IRWIN, T., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Determination of the voltage/time characteristics of rod gaps etc.'. CIGRE,
1986, Paper 15.05
19 RYAN, H.M., and MATT1NGLEY, J.M.: 'Salt-fog artificial pollution
validation studies', Proc. IEE, 1970, 117, (7), pp. 1389-1392
20 ELLIS, N.S., LUGTON, W.T., POWELL, C.W., and RYAN, H.M.:
'Special spark-gap switches for use in synthetic test circuits'. Presented
at IEEE Winter Power Meeting, New York, 1972, Paper T72 051-6.
Subsequently published in IEEE Trans., 1972, PAS-91, pp. 2020-2025
21 RICHARDSON, A.V., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Computer aided analysis
of an impulse voltage measuring system'. Presented at International
Symposium: High Voltage Technology, Munich, March 1972, pp.
245-251. Also presented at IEEE PES Summer Meeting, Vancouver,
Canada, 1973, Paper C73 345-6
22 RYAN, H.M., ELLIS, N.S., and BELL, W.R.: 'Case for a UK collaborative research strategy using major industrial laboratory facilities'.
Presented at 17th Universities Power Engineering Conference,
UMIST, Manchester, 30th March 1982-1 April 1982
23 RYAN, H.M.: 'SF 6 switchgear further developments', Reyrolle
Parsons Rev., summer 1977, 3, (1), pp. 1-8
24 BALL, E.H., RICHARDSON, A.V., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Terminations

Fig. 2 5
518

used in EHV metalclad substations'. Presented at IEE International

Conference on the Design and Application of EHV Substations,
London, 22-24th November 1977, pp. 134-139
25 RYAN, H.M., LIGHTLE, D., HEADLEY, P., and KELSEY, T.:
'Engineering considerations relating to EHV metalclad switchgear for
currents up to 63 kA'. CIGRE, 1980, Paper 13.02
26 RYAN, H.M.: 'Applications of gaseous insulants'. Presented at IEE
Summer School on Electrical insulation-measurements design and
materials for power engineering, University of Salford, 5-8th September 1983, Chap. 6. Also in BRAD WELL, A. (Ed.): 'Electrical insulation'(Peter Peregrinus Ltd., UK, 1983)
27 ALI, S.M.G., RYAN, H.M., LIGHTLE, D., SHIMMIN, D.,
TAYLOR, S., and JONES, G.R.: 'High power short circuit studies on
a commercial 420 kV, 60 kA puffer circuit breaker', IEEE Trans.,
1985, PAS-104, (2), pp. 459-*68
28 RYAN, H.M., and JONES, G.R.: IEE Review on SF 6 Switchgear
(Paper in preparation, commissioned by IEE)
29 PHILLPOTT, J., LITTLE, P., WHITE, E.L., RYAN, H.M.,
POWELL, C.W., DALE, S.J., AKED, A., TEDFORD, D.J., and
WATERS, R.T.: 'Lightning strike point location studies on scale
models'. Presented at International Lightning and Static Electricity
Conference, Culham Laboratory, United Kingdom, April 1975
30 POWELL, C.W., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Switching impulse strength of a
765 kV simulated tower window with V-string insulators under artificial rain'. Presented at 3rd International Symposium on High Voltage
Engineering, Milan, August 1979, Paper 52.11
31 BISHOP, J., AKED, A., POWELL, C.W., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Aspects
of lightning protection schemes for radomes'. Presented to International Aerospace and Group Conference on Lightning and Static
Electricity, Paris, France, 10-1 lth June 1985, pp. 499-507
32 AKED, A., POWELL, C.W., RYAN, H.M., and BISHOP, J.: 'Aspects
of lightning protection schemes for radomes'. Presented at 8th International GDC, Oxford, September 1985, pp. 372-375
33 GREENWAY, R., and RYAN, H.M.: 'Modern developments in the
insulation of switchgear components'. IEE Conf. Publ. 83, (I), pp. 122127. Also Discussion (2), pp. 54-55
34 RYAN, H.M., WAUGH, R.A., and GREENWAY, R.: 'An appraisal
of realistic discharge levels for high voltage switchgear'. Presented
at BEAMA 2nd International Electrical Insulation Conference,
Brighton, May 1974, pp. 271-280
35 RYAN, H.M., GREENWAY, R., and POWELL, C.W.: 'Instrument
transformers for modern EHV substations'. Presented at BEAMA 3rd
International Conference, Brighton, May 1978, pp. 170-180
36 POWELL, C.W., MILNE, D., and RYAN, H.M.: 'The application of
RBGF and solid dielectric materials in modern switchgear'. Presented
at BEAMA Insulation Conference, Brighton, May 10th-13th 1982
37 MILNE, D., and RYAN, H.M.: 'The evaluation of solid dielectric
systems for use in high voltage switchgear', IEE Conf. Publ. 239, 1984,
pp. 76-79
38 ZAENGL, W.: T h e impulse voltage divider with h.t. lead', Bull. ASE,
1970,61, (12), pp. 1003-1017
39 ZAENGL, W., and FESER, K.: 'Contribution to the calculation of
the transmission behaviour of impulse voltage dividers', ibid., 1964, 55,
(25), p. 1249
40 ZAENGL, W.: 'A new divider for steep impulse voltages', ibid., 1965,
56, p. 232
41 Working Group 33.03: 'Record of performance of voltage and current
measuring systems', Electro, 1981, 78, pp. 35-69

Views of insulation research test facilities installed in main XJHV hall south wall (F)
IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

Fig. 27
View of insulation materials evaluation laboratory showing
ovens and samples prior to test (G)
Fig. 26

Endurance/accelerated frequency test area (/)

Fig. 28

Views of 250 kV discharge test area (K)

Fig. 29

Mechanical and thermal test area (L)

IEE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

Fig. 30
1986

500 kV impulse test laboratory (H)

519

10

Appendix

10.1 Supplementary test facilities

Following laboratory reorganisation in 1980 three additional test areas were established within the main hall of
the UHV laboratory, without effectively reducing the efficiency and usefulness of the main area. In addition, a
multipurpose mechanical/thermal/dielectric area was
established in the erection bay; insulation material
research areas, suitable for endurance and accelerated fre-

quency testing, were also established within the UHV

laboratory precinct. Examples of these supplementary
facilities are given in Figs. 2531. Identification letters F-L
refer to Fig. 2a.
10.2 High voltage facilities at NEI Reyrolle, Hebburn
10.2.1 Laboratory dimensions and facility data: The
main test plant and equipment are detailed below and
illustrated in Figs. 2, 3, 5-8, 17-19.

Fig. 31
Examples of thermal, mechanical and dielectric testing
a View of SF6 insulated mctalclad switchgear assembled for thermal testing (L).
Close proximity of main UHV hall makes it very convenient to carry out dielectric
tests on the thermal test arrangement if required.
b Modern 420 kV SPD (4 break) metalclad circuit breaker set up in mechanical/
electrical test hall for mechanical endurance type testing. Vertically mounted porcelain inlet bushing and voltage transformer are shown connected to the circuit
breaker for these tests.
c 420 kV SPD (2 break) circuit breaker inside an environmental test chamber with
range 40 to 50C (L). Studies also included power-frequency dielectric testing
and video filming for particulate count.
d, e Views of 420 kV (2 break) dead-tank circuit-breaker assembly (mounted for
outdoor mechanical type testing) (2000 operations). Studies also included powerfrequency dielectric testing and video filming for particulate count.
1EE PROCEEDINGS,

Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER

1986

JO.2.1.1 Indoor laboratory:

(i) Maximum internal clearance 48.7 m x 33.5 m x 32
m (high) (provision/space to extend southern facing wall by
at least 24.4 m)
(ii) door opening 11.7 m x 18.9 m (high)
(iii) overhead crane 7.1 tonnes (7 tons)
(iv) mobile cranes
(v) floor loading 21.9 tonnes/m2 (2 ton/sq. ft.)
(vi) Maximum tension for overhead line and insulator
tests 10.1 tonnes
(vii) Underground oil storage tanks (136 m3 (30000
gallons)), pumping station, streamline purifier and conditioner
(viii) main oil test tank (127 m 3 (28000 gallons)) suitable for oil impregnation and testing of transformer insulation and for complete bushings, testing up to 765 kV
rating
(ix) wet test equipment. Testing in accordance with IEC
60 etc. on complete assemblies of 420/525 kV open terminal and metalclad switchgear, disconnectors, transformer
bushings transmission towers/lines and hardware etc. (e.g.
Figs. 5,15)
(x) compressed air supplies
(xi) SF6 handling equipment
(xii) various compressed-gas test vessels for GIS studies
at voltages 2.8 MV and pressures up to 8 x 105 N/m 2
(gauge).
10.2.1.2 Erection bay: (Figs. 2, 29, 31a)
(i) maximum internal clearance 10.5 m x 15 ra x 15.6 m
(high)
(ii) various transformers for thermal testing switchgear
panels, GIS or for cables etc. for AC and DC type testing
(iii) mechanical/thermal test capability in this area with
ready access to HV supplies from main test hall.
10.2.1.3 Outdoor laboratory: (see Figs. 2, 3a, 3Id, e)
(i) concrete area 15.3 m x 24.4 m.
(ii) Flat grass/concrete area adjacent to both highvoltage and short-circuit facilities 150 m x 60 m
approximately (see Figs. 2c, 31c).

1EE PROCEEDINGS, Vol. 133, Pt. A, No. 8, NOVEMBER 1986

10.2.2 High voltage equipment:

10.2.2.1 Direct voltage tests:
(i) 1 MV generator
(ii) 2 MV generator capability produced from existing 4 MV impulse generator
(iii) 1 MV wire-wound resistor divider
(iv) electrometers for low current measurements etc.
10.2.2.2 Power-frequency tests:
(i) 2 MV, 3.2 MVA transformers (see Figs. 2d, 3)
(ii) 2 x 0.5 MV, 500 kVA transformer (cascaded units)
(iii) 250 kV, 100 kVA transformer
(iv) 200 kV, 20 kVA transformer
(v) various shielded gas capacitors up to 1.2 MV
(vi) compensated capacitor divider up to 2.0 MV
(vii) various Schering bridges (up to 200 kV)
(viii) RIV test set
(ix) partial discharge detectors.
10.2.2.3 Impulse voltage tests:
(i) 4 MV, 150 kJ generator (see Figs. 2d, 3) (could be
extended to 5.6 MV)
(ii) 800 kV, 9.5 kJ generator
(iii) 600 kV, 4.2 kJ generator
(iv) bias (impulse/AC) test controls
(v) 4 MV compensated capacitor divider with seriesdistributed resistors (see Figs. Id, 3c)
(vi) 1.2 MV capacitive graded resistor divider
(vii) impulse oscilloscopes
(viii) digital transient recorders
(ix) various uniform field and sphere gaps
(x) pressurised measuring spark gaps
(xi) specialised screened room, suitable for detailed gas
prebreakdown studies
(xii) Digital support: programs for statistical analysis of
test results, for electric field evaluation of test objects, and
for step response evaluation of laboratory test circuits.
Also a suite of power-system analysis programs available
for analysing laboratory switching studies involving surge
arresters, switchgear etc.