Evaluation of Applicability of Classic Methods of a Fault Loop Impedance Measurement to Circuits with Residual Current Devices

Abstract

Measurement of fault loop impedance in low voltage grids and systems is in most cases performed to verify the effectiveness of protection against electric shock by automatic disconnection of supply. For the sake of measurement accuracy, it is advisable to perform it using large current. Unfortunately, in circuits with residual current devices which are very widely used nowadays, a large measurement current may trigger those devices unnecessarily. The study presents results of an investigation of residual current devices behaviour during measurements of fault loop impedance performed with selected measuring devices. The tests have been performed on circuits with residual current devices with a rated residual operating current IΔn = 30 mA, of AC and A type. Based on the performed tests and analyses, a method for measurement of fault loop impedance which does not unnecessarily trigger residual current devices has been proposed.