Medium voltage locking systems

WHAT YOU HAVE TO REMEMBER

It is better to have no locking system than to have an incomplete locking system.

Combining locking with operating instructions is extremely dangerous.
A mistake can lead to a death and legal proceedings against the person
responsible for the failure.
Three types of locking should be committed to memory, those related to:
operating of isolating devices;
operating of earthing switches;
controlled access to different compartments.

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Merlin Gerin Square D Telemecanique

Medium voltage locking systems

DONT FORGET EXTERNAL

INTERLOCKING SYSTEMS !

This overview of locking systems is intended to make you aware of the

importance of safety locking systems, the responsibility for which is
too often passed over in silence in specifications and technical
conditions to those responsible for managing the contract (sales
engineers, Adaptation Engineering Office designers, assembly or
supervisory personnel, etc.).

Our cubicles are delivered fitted, as standard, with their internal functional
locking systems (see appendix 1).
Any manufacturers prefer lock-based internal locking systems.
However, interlocking systems between cubicles or between cubicles and
upstream or downstream equipment are very often ignored and result in
expensive last-minute alterations at the factory or even on site.
These interlocking systems, which often appear unimportant to the layman,
are an essential complement to internal locking systems.
A little advice:
it is better to have no locking system than to have an incomplete locking
system which, sooner or later, might catch out an operator.
combining locking with operating instructions is extremely dangerous;
by force of habit, an operator might overlook an instruction which could
prove fatal.
we must disclaim our responsibility if the customer wished to totally
or partially operate his installation on the basis of operating instructions.

all installations not complying with proper practice, in relation to

locking, must be subject to a disclaimer relative to our customer because

a mistake can lead to a death and legal proceedings against the person
responsible for the failure.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING
INCORRECT OPERATION

THE MAIN PURPOSE OF LOCKING SYSTEMS IS TO PROHIBIT INCORRECT

OPERATION

Electrical distribution boards may be incorrectly operated with serious

consequences.
Locking systems guarantee:
safety of personnel;
safety of equipment;
continuity of operation.

They involve using locks or mechanical (functional) devices on operating

mechanisms, doors and access panels to the various compartments, thus
obliging the operator to follow the relevant procedures in a precise
chronological sequence.
A HOST OF LOCKING SYSTEM TYPES ARE AVAILABLE:
No locking: no guarantee

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e.g.: mechanical start/stop pushbuttons on the circuit-breaker.

Locking using a chain to prohibit access
e.g.: a chain across a passage showing that access is prohibited.
Locking by permanent warning/instructional signs: all relevant safety
instructions are given on the cubicles.
e.g.: DANGER triangle indicates the presence of a hazard and the
switchboard must only be dismantled after carrying out a safeguarding
procedure.
Mechanical functional locking: incorporated in the equipment design,
this form of locking intervenes independently of the personnels wishes.
Safety is guaranteed automatically, but the notion of danger may be lost.
e.g.:
mechanical locking between the circuit-breaker withdrawn position and
the earthing switch position.
cubicle/circuit-breaker foolproofing
Locking using locks: the most simple and safest form of locking, along with
functional locking if well designed.
electrical locks: to be used with care because, although its use is easy
under normal operation, it can rapidly become dangerous (e.g.: a pilot wire
accident).
padlocks: an inexpensive flexible system, but can only be used for basic
access prevention.
e.g.: earthing switch padlocked in closed position.
Padlock-based locking does not allow interlocking.
mechanical locks: the most reliable system.
It allows the use of complex locking systems, but its design requires
the involvement of a specialist.

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Medium voltage locking systems

ENVIRONMENT,
COMPLEXITY AND COST
ARE THE SELECTION
CRITERIA

S A L E S

Selection of a locking system depends on the environment,

the complexity of operation and the cost.

The purpose of all locking systems is to ensure human safety and network
operation.
For the same application, the system will vary according to local pratices.
Some countries require full locking, others only permanent
warning/instructional signs, in which case safety will be ensured by the
personnels competence.
Efficient locking is locking which does not incite operating personnel
to tamper with it .

Excessively complex locking may cause personnel to dismantle certain locks.

The installation then becomes highly dangerous.
Selection of a locking system will depend on the personnels competence
and local operating procedures.
Finally, from two acceptable solutions, the least expensive should be retained.

3 TYPES
OF KEY-BASED LOCKING

WE SHALL CONSIDER 3 TYPES OF KEY-BASED LOCKING:

1 lock/1 key: no restriction on the profile of the key.

e.g.: access to a low voltage compartment.

This type of locking is used to limit access to authorised personnel.
2 locks/1 key: key can be removed in the locked position; key is captive in
the unlocked position, or vice versa.
e.g.: 2 cubicles which must never operate in parallel;
1 lock locks the circuit-breaker in the withdrawn position and its key can
be removed. The key is then used to unlock the second circuit-breaker.
There must only be one key to ensure operating safety. Any copies must be
destroyed. In a case where the two locks are of different make, the keys must
be permanently paired on a welded ring.
For each locking system, it is essential to provide a unique key profile and
clear identification.
Complex locking - more than 2 locks: this type of locking demands a special
design study and may require lock combinations or central locks.

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Medium voltage locking systems

6 ACTIONS
TO BE PROHIBITED

IN GENERAL, 6 BASIC ACTIONS MUST BE SYSTEMATICALLY PROHIBITED:

operating disconnectors and busbar bridges under load because

disconnectors are not able to break rated current;

withdrawing and plugging in circuit-breakers and contactors under

load because it is similar to operate disconnector;

removing fuses from voltage transformers under load for safety reason;

closing an earthing switch, if the cubicle and cables are live and,
conversely, switching cubicles back on before opening the relevant
earthing switch because it is a direct short-circuit ;
opening doors or panels giving access to cable terminals if the earthing
switch has not been closed and, conversely, opening the earthing switch
before closing relevant access doors and panels for safety of personnel;

connecting several incomers, which are unsynchronised or of varying

origins, in parallel (the case for switchboards with multiple incomers and

coupling cubicles) because there is risk of closing in opposite phase and

destruction of materials.

MOREOVER, IN DOUBLE BUSBAR SYSTEM SWITCHBOARDS, IT IS ESSENTIAL TO:

prohibit simultaneous closing of the two busbar disconnectors for
the same cubicle when the busbars are not coupled by a coupling cubicle

because if busbars are not synchronised, or at the same voltage,

the disconnector has no closing capacity;

authorise simultaneous closing of the two busbar disconnectors for

the same cubicle, when transferring from one busbar to the other without
interruption of service, if the busbars are coupled by a coupling cubicle.

The disconnector closes 2 networks at the same voltage and synchronised.

This list of prohibited actions is not limitative.
Each switchboard is subject to its own special operating conditions,
which it is essential to know in order to undertake a full design study
in relation to locking.

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Medium voltage locking systems

INTERNAL LOCKING
OF CUBICLES

A metalclad cubicle is divided into compartments each of which fulfils a

determinate function:
circuit-breaker compartment: breaking and isolating;
busbar compartment: distribution;
cable compartment: connection and earthing of cable terminals;
voltage transformer compartment: voltage metering on cable or busbar side;

low voltage compartment.

Internal locking is provided for each compartment; devices, doors or

panels allowing operation or access to an energized room are interlocked
to ensure safety.
The busbar compartment is a special case.

Its access panel is bolted (with an danger warning sign), access to

the busbar remains exceptional and is only required when carrying out
maintenance under the supervision of qualified personnel (checking
tightness of busbar bolts, cleaning insulating material).
Such work can only be undertaken with the busbar switched off, i.e. by
shutting down part or all of the switchboard. Access to busbars is therefore
usually on the basis of specific instructions.
The low voltage compartment does not give access to a medium voltage
conductor. Unless required by the customer, provision of key-based locking
is unnecessary.
In general, if there is no risk of reverse current on the cable end unit side
(e.g., motor feeder), internal locking is sufficient.

Busbar
access panel

Internal locking systems are provided:

either, mechanically by linkages;
or, by locks.
Depending on the manufacturers
and countries concerned, additional
internal locking systems may
be encountered, such as:
locking between door and circuitbreaker withdrawn position;
locking of LV tappings;

Cable and CT
access panel
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Medium voltage locking systems

INTERLOCKING SYSTEMS
BETWEEN EQUIPMENT

Interlocking means taking into account:

upstream and downstream cubicles directly linked to the cubicle
to be locked.
E.g.: MV cubicle earthing switch interlocked with LV circuit-breaker which
is locked in the open position
certain cubicles on the same switchboard providing essential additional
locking to the cubicle internal locking system.
E.g.: incomer cubicles and coupling cubicle
To achieve full locking, not only internal locking should be
considered; interlocking systems should be considered,
which require possession of the installations full single
line layout (at the various voltage levels) and of the particular
operating conditions for the switchboards in question.

This does not mean supply the locks installed outside our cubicles,
but it does mean indicate in detail on our locking system layouts the types
and combinations which will be supplied by those other than Schneider.
The main interlocking systems are shown in the diagram on the following page.
Ref 1: incomer cubicles

It is essential to lock the upstream isolating device in an open position

in order to close the earthing switch (internal lock between earthing switch
and the circuit-breaker of the cubicle).
Ref 2: incomers which must not operate in parallel

It is essential to lock one incomer cubicles circuit-breaker in a withdrawn

position in order to be able to plug in the coupling circuit-breaker.
Ref 3: feeder with a risk of reverse current

(Transformer or sub-switchboard)
It is essential to lock the downstream isolating device in an open position
in order to allow closing of the earthing switch (internal lock between
the earthing switch and the circuit-breaker of the cubicle) and authorise
access to the transformer (terminals, transformer room door).
Cross-locking in the case of a sub-switchboard feeder.

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Medium voltage locking systems

INTERLOCKING SYSTEMS

Generator incomer

Transformer incomer

BETWEEN EQUIPMENT

(contd)

Upstream
isolating devices

MV
switchboard
incomer

MV
switchboard
incomer

Coupling
Transformer
feeder

Sub-switchboard
feeder

3
3
Downstream
isolating devices

LV switchboard

MV sub-switchboard

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING OPERATION
OF A DISCONNECTOR
OR BUSBAR BRIDGE
UNDER LOAD

A disconnector or a busbar bridge is an isolating device, not a breaking device

(MT partenaire B-1-1). It can be operated when live, but not under load.
Opening and closing actions must be made dependent on prior operation
of one or more circuit-breaking elements (circuit-breaker or contactor) which
break the load passing through the device concerned.
The disconnector or busbar bridge is permanently locked in its two
positions (open-closed).

Removing the key in the open position enables the circuit-breaker to be

tested under no load:
closing and tripping tests in the case of fixed or removable circuit-breakers;
plugging in or withdrawing tests in the case of withdrawable circuit-breakers.
Note: the lock which prevents closing of the circuit-breaker must be an
electrical contact-type, which breaks the closing circuit; the lock bolt should
operate the mechanical trip pushbutton which forbid the mechanical closing.
EXAMPLE 1: FEEDER CUBICLE WITH DISCONNECTOR AND CIRCUIT-BREAKER
(FIXED OR REMOVABLE)
To operate the disconnector:

trip and lock the circuit-breaker

in the tripped position (key D can
be removed);
use the key to unlock the
disconnector;
operate the disconnector;
lock the disconnector (key D can
be removed);
unlock the circuit-breaker.
This operation is only performed
in the cubicle.

90
D

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING OPERATION
OF A DISCONNECTOR
OR BUSBAR BRIDGE
UNDER LOAD
(contd)

EXAMPLE 2: INCOMER CUBICLE WITH BUSBAR BRIDGE

Case 1
To operate the busbar bridge:
Upstream
cubicle

DA

Busbar bridge
incomer

withdraw and lock the upstream

cubicle circuit-breaker in the
withdrawn position (key DA may
be removed) ;
unlock and operate and busbar
bridge;
lock the busbar bridge.
The operation is performed in
the switchboard cubicle and
in the upstream cubicle
(here we see the notion of interlocking
between cubicles on different
switchboards).

DA

D1

D2

A
D5

D6

D2 D5 D6 A

D4

D3

D1 D3 D4 A

Keys coming from the lock of the open position of the circuit-breakers
allow the use of the A key of the central lock to unlock the busbar bridge.
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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING OPERATION
OF A DISCONNECTOR
OR BUSBAR BRIDGE
UNDER LOAD

Case 2
BUSBAR BRIDGE incomer

(contd)

M M1 M2 M3
Central lock

M1

M2

M3

3 motor feeders

To operate the busbar bridge, the incomer must be off-load:

withdraw and lock all feeder contactors in the withdrawn position
(keys M1, M2, M3 may be removed);
make these keys captive in the central lock (key M may be removed);
unlock and operate the busbar bridge.
The operation is performed on several switchboard cubicles
(interlocking between cubicles on the same switchboard).

Note: locks prohibiting operation under load, which are fitted on

the busbar bridge carriages, are insufficient for prohibiting
interchangeability of two identical carriages on the same switchboard.
One must therefore provide:
either, foolproof systems on the cubicles;
or, permanent warning/instructional signs on the carriages.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING PLUGGING
IN AND WITHDRAWING
OF CIRCUIT-BREAKERS
AND CONTACTORS
UNDER LOAD

As for an isolating device, circuit-breaker and contactor plugging in and

withdrawing operations must be made dependent on prior tripping of the
relevant circuit-breaking device.

PROHIBITING
THE REMOVAL OF
VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER
CIRCUIT-BREAKERS
WHEN LIVE

To remove MV fuses:

Contactor

Circuit-breaker

This locking system is functional

on our switchgear and forms an
integral part of the device.

withdraw the voltage transformer support carriage;

open the LV disconnector for the secondary circuits.
On our voltage transformer units, this locking system is functional and is an
integral part of the device.

MV

Note:

in the case of fixed-position

busbar voltage transformers with

LV

incorporated fuses, the busbars

must be de-energised and the LV
isolating device for the secondary
circuit must be locked, in order
to remove fuses.
In the case of fixed-position
cable voltage transformers with
incorporated fuses, the isolating
device upstream or downstream
of the voltage transformer must
be locked in an open position,
or access to it must be prevented.
It is necessary to earth the cubicle
to cancel cables capacitive current.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING CLOSING
OF THE EARTHING
SWITCH WHEN
THE CUBICLE AND
CABLES ARE LIVE

An earthing switch is a device for short-circuiting and earthing the 3-phase

system formed by a cubicles cables. It is operated in a de-energised
condition, or a bolted short-circuit can occur .
If reverse current may occur, it is therefore essential that isolating devices
upstream and downstream of the earthing switch be locked in an open
position (here we have the notion of interlocking between cubicles on different
switchboards).
if motor feeders and so-called single feeders (presenting no risk of reverse
voltage) for which cubicle internal locking is sufficient.
EXAMPLE 1: INCOMER CUBICLE WITH WITHDRAWABLE CIRCUIT-BREAKER
UPSTREAM cubicle
not supplied by Schneider

INCOMER cubicle

A1

A2

A1

A2

To close the earthing switch for the incomer cubicle:

withdraw and lock the incomer circuit-breaker (key A1 may be removed);

lock the upstream isolating device in an open position
(key A2 may be removed);
unlock and close the earthing switch of the incomer cubicle
(key A2 captive);
key A1 can be used to unlock the earthing switch for the upstream
cubicle (cross-locking system ; key A1 captive).

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING CLOSING
OF THE EARTHING
SWITCH WHEN
THE CUBICLE AND
CABLES ARE LIVE (contd)

EXAMPLE 2: SUB-SWITCHBOARD FEEDER CUBICLE WITH REMOVABLE

CIRCUIT-BREAKER AND UPSTREAM EARTHING SWITCH
Sub-switchboard
FEEDER cubicle

DOWNSTREAM cubicle
not supplied by Schneider

D
F

To close the earthing switch for the feeder cubicle:

lock the feeder cubicle in the open position (key D may be removed) ;
lock the upstream cubicle disconnectors in the open position
(key S may be removed and internal unlock of the earthing switch) ;
lock the downstream circuit-breaker in the withdrawn position
(key F may be removed) ;
using key F, unlock the earthing switch of the feeder cubicle.
this earthing switch can now be closed.

To unlock the rear access panel of the cubicle:

lock this earthing switch in the closed position using key P (key P may
be removed); this key then enables the switchboard rear panel to be unlocked.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING CLOSING
OF THE EARTHING
SWITCH WHEN
THE CUBICLE AND
CABLES ARE LIVE (contd)

EXAMPLE 3: MV/LV TRANSFORMER FEEDER CUBICLE WITH A WITHDRAWABLE

CIRCUIT-BREAKER
To close the earthing switch for the feeder cubicle:

withdraw the transformer feeder circuit-breaker;

lock the downstream LV circuit-breaker in the withdrawn position
(key LV can be removed);
unlock the earthing switch using key LV.

TRANSFORMER
FEEDER cubicle

DOWNSTREAM LV cubicle
not supplied by Schneider
LV

TR

LV
MV

LV
TR

Note: voltage neon lights are also provided for the earthing switch.

This additional safety feature allows one to check that there is no voltage
in the part of the system to be earthed, after opening the isolating devices
and before closing the earthing switch.
the key TR can be removed when the earthing switch is closed and used
to open the transformer room.
In the above examples, the cubicles not supplied by Schneider must therefore
incorporate their own internal locking systems.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING
THE OPENING OF
ACCESS DOORS
OR PANELS IF
THE EARTHING SWITCH
IS NOT CLOSED

These doors or panels provide access to the:

cable terminals;
earthing switch;
current transformers;
circuit-breaker (fixed or removable);
power transformer;
voltage transformers.
With the earthing switch closed, the cable side of the installation can be serviced
in complete safety.
The busbars remain energised; only the relevant cubicle is switched off.
EXAMPLE 1: INCOMER CUBICLE WITH WITHDRAWABLE CIRCUIT-BREAKER
Without functional locking (general case)

Safety is ensured through the use of a lock or padlock fixed to the earthing
switch in the closed position.
The rear access panel carries a DANGER warning sign.
With functional locking

To remove the access panel:

close the earthing switch, this unlocks the panel. Unscrew the panel;
removing the panel locks the earthing switch in a closed position.
EXAMPLE 2: SUB-SWITCHBOARD FEEDER CUBICLE WITH REMOVABLE
CIRCUIT-BREAKER AND DISCONNECTOR

A lock links the cable compartment closing plate to the earthing switch
closed position.
EXAMPLE 3: MV/LV TRANSFORMER FEEDER WITH WITHDRAWABLE
CIRCUIT-BREAKER
Without functional locking

It is essential to lock the earthing switch in a closed position in order to

remove the access panel, which must carry a DANGER warning sign.
With functional locking

Closing of the earthing switch unlocks the access panel and removal of the
panel locks the earthing switch in the closed position.
Unlocking and opening of the power transformer compartment door

Lock the earthing switch in the closed position, the key can be removed and
enables the transformer room door to be unlocked.
Under certain circumstances, access to the transformer room door is
authorised using 2 keys (MV + LV).
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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING
THE COUPLING OF
SEVERAL INCOMERS
ON THE SAME BUSBAR

This locking system prevents power sources of different origin being connected
in parallel, or allows short-circuit power to be limited, on the same busbar.
EXAMPLE 1
Case of a switchboard supplied by:

1 generator incomer (back-up incomer);

1 transformer incomer (normal incomer) with a coupling cubicle.

The three circuit-breakers are locked in the withdrawn position by a lock

having the same combination number and only two operating keys.
It is impossible to plug in the three circuit-breakers simultaneously.
Key is captive when the circuit-breaker is drawn in.

There are different operating options:

Busbar 1 supplied by incomer G

Busbar 2 supplied by incomer TR

Coupling circuit-breaker locked in withdrawn position
Generator
incomer

Transformer
incomer

Busbar 1

Busbar 2
Coupling

Busbars 1 and 2 supplied by incomer G

Incomer TR circuit-breaker locked in withdrawn position

Generator
incomer

Transformer
incomer

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Busbar 1

Busbar 2
Coupling
page 17

Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING
THE COUPLING OF
SEVERAL INCOMERS
ON THE SAME BUSBAR

Busbars 1 and 2 supplied by incomer TR

Incomer G circuit-breaker locked in withdrawn position

Generator
incomer

Transformer
incomer

(contd)

Busbar 1

Busbar 2
Coupling

EXAMPLE 2
Case of a switchboard supplied by:

1 generator incomer;
1 transformer incomer;
1 line incomer with 2 coupling cubicles.

Generator incomer and 1-2 coupling circuit-breakers are locked in the

withdrawn position by a lock having the same combination number C1
and only one operating key.
Line incomer and 2-3 coupling circuit-breakers are locked in the withdrawn
position by a lock having the same combination number C2 and only one
operating key.
The transformer incomer circuit-breaker is locked in the withdrawn position
by a lock C1-2 and one operating key.
Taking into account the following particular conditions:
key C1-2 operates both locks C1 and C2;
neither key C1 nor key C2 can operate lock C1-2.
It is impossible to connect 2 incomers in parallel on the same busbar.

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Medium voltage locking systems

PROHIBITING
THE COUPLING OF
SEVERAL INCOMERS
ON THE SAME BUSBAR
(contd)

There are different operating options:

Busbar 1 supplied by incomer G

Busbar 2 supplied by incomer TR

Busbar 3 supplied by incomer L
Coupling circuit-breakers 1-2 and 2-3 locked in the withdrawn position
Busbars 1 and 2 supplied by incomer G
Busbar 3 supplied by incomer L
TR incomer and 2-3 coupling circuit-breakers locked
in the withdrawn position
Busbars 1 and 2 supplied by incomer TR
Busbar 3 supplied by incomer L
Incomer G and coupling 2-3 circuit-breakers locked
in the withdrawn position
Busbars 2 and 3 supplied by incomer L
Busbar 1 supplied by incomer G
Incomer TR and coupling 1-2 circuit-breakers locked
in the withdrawn position
Busbars 2 and 3 supplied by incomer TR
Busbar 1 supplied by incomer G
Incomer L and coupling 1-2 circuit-breakers locked
in the withdrawn position
Busbars 1-2-3 supplied by incomer G
Incomer TR and L circuit-breakers locked in the drawn out position
Busbars 1-2-3 supplied by incomer TR
Incomer G and L circuit-breakers locked in the drawn out position
Busbars 1-2-3 supplied by incomer L
Incomer G and TR circuit-breakers locked in the drawn out position

Generator G
incomer

Transformer
incomer

C1

Busbar 1

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C1

Line
incomer

C1-2

C2

Busbar 2
Coupling 1-2

C2

Busbar 3
Coupling 2-3

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Medium voltage locking systems

LOCKING OF DOUBLE
BUSBAR SWITCHBOARDS

Through their coupling cubicle, double busbar switchboards allow incomers

or feeders to be switched onto one busbar or the other without interruption
of service, i.e. without the operation being perceived by the user.
Coupling, or equalising the potential of the two busbars, must be
undertaken by the coupling cubicle specifically provided, and not by
the busbar disconnectors for one of the incomer or feeder cubicles
(they have no closing capacity).
a) Coupled busbars

The two busbar disconnectors for an incomer or feeder cubicle

may be closed simultaneously.
b) Uncoupled busbars

The two busbar disconnectors for an incomer or feeder cubicle

cannot be closed simultaneously.
EXAMPLE 1: COUPLING CUBICLE FITTED WITH TWO DISCONNECTORS

in cubicle 1:

locks D1 link circuit-breaker to the busbar disconnectors and prohibit

their operation under load.
locks S1 prohibit simultaneous closing of the busbar disconnectors.

in coupling cubicle C :

locks DC link circuit-breaker to the busbar disconnectors and prohibit

their operation under load.
locks SC allow the lock of the busbar disconnectors in close position.

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Medium voltage locking systems

LOCKING OF DOUBLE
BUSBAR SWITCHBOARDS

CONNECTING BUSBAR IN PARALLEL

(contd)

withdraw coupling circuit-breaker DC and lock it. Unlock, close,

lock in close position the 2 busbar disconnectors of the coupling unit C:
SC and DC keys may be removed;
plug in the coupling circuit-breaker (keys DC captive);
close the coupling circuit-breaker and lock it in the closed position
(key PC may be removed);
make keys SC and PC captive on the central lock Z (key C may be removed);
make key C captive on the electromechanical lock X:
if the circuit-breaker has indeed been plugged in and closed, it is possible
to excite the electromagnet allowing key N to be operated which renders
the circuit-breaker remote tripping circuit inoperative: key N may be removed;
key C is captive.
remove key S1 in lock Y and unlock, operate and lock the busbar
disconnector (1) of cubicle 1 (key D1 may be removed, key S1 captive);
unlock, operate, lock the busbar disconnector (2) of cubicle 1 (key D1 captive,
key S1 may be removed);
in lock Y, remove key N.
Cubicle 1 load changes of busbar without breaking.

Aim: to transfer the busbar 2 load to the busbar 1.

Operating sequence:

Cubicle n

Cubicle 1

Coupling cubicle C

Cubicle n

Busbar 1
Busbar 2
D1

D1

DC

DC

2 1
S1

S1

SC

SC
PC

D1

DC

Coupling circuit-breaker
closing/plugging-in control
Locking of coupling
circuit-breaker trip

Y
Sn N

Sn N

S1 N

X
N C

C PC SC SC

Sn N

Sn N

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Medium voltage locking systems

LOCKING OF DOUBLE
BUSBAR SWITCHBOARDS

EXAMPLE 2: COUPLING CUBICLE WITHOUT DISCONNECTOR

Operation identical to that of example 1, except:

central lock Z no longer exists;
key PC replaces key C on the electromechanical lock X.

(contd)
Cubicle n

Cubicle 1

Coupling cubicle C

Cubicle n

Busbar 1
Busbar 2
D1

D1
2 1

S1

S1
PC
D1

Coupling circuit-breaker
closing/plugging-in control
Locking of coupling
circuit-breaker trip

Y
Sn N

Sn N

S1 N

X
N PC

Sn N

Sn N

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Medium voltage locking systems

LOCKING OF
SWITCHBOARDS WITH
DOUBLE CLIP CUBICLES

These switchboards fulfil the same function as double busbar switchboards,

in terms of switching incomer and feeder cubicles, without interruption of
service, to either busbar.
To avoid circuit-breaker operation, it is desirable to incorporate either a
reserve circuit-breaker to enable coupling, or incomers and feeders fitted
two circuit-breakers.
Feeder 1

Coupling

Busbar 1
Coupling circuit-breaker
closing/plugging-in control

PC
S1A
Locking of coupling
circuit-breaker trip

X
N PC
Busbar 2

S1

Y
S1 N

Operation is identical to that of example 2 on previous page.

Interlocking systems between the earthing switch for the busbar 2 feeder
cubicle and the busbar 1 cubicle circuit-breaker should be provided (key A).

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 1

MCset WITHOUT A VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER UNIT

MCset FUNCTIONAL
LOCKING
MV circuitbreaker
access door

a
c

Access to cables

door: MCset 4
panel: MCset 1, 2, 3

a: interlocking of circuit-breaker opening and withdrawing

b: interlocking of circuit-breaker withdrawing and earthing switch closing
c: interlocking of circuit-breaker withdrawing and MV door opening
d: interlocking of earthing switch closing and cable access

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 1

MCset WITH A VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER UNIT

MCset FUNCTIONAL
LOCKING (contd)
MV circuitbreaker
access door

a
c
d
b
Fuse and
power
transformer
access
e
Access to cables after
voltage transformer outlet

a: interlocking of circuit-breaker opening and withdrawing

b: interlocking of circuit-breaker withdrawing and earthing switch closing

c: interlocking of circuit-breaker withdrawing and MV door opening
d: interlocking of position fuses and fuse access panel or door

e: interlocking of earthing switch and voltage transformer unit; access is

possible to cables with the voltage transformer withdrawn

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY

TO DELIVER EQUIPMENT ON TIME WHICH OFFERS FULL OPERATING SAFETY

FEATURES, WE HAVE TO:

make an inventory of and solve all relevant locking problems

plan the locking design study in detail,

resolve all locking problems well before assembly!!!

in agreement with the Sales Engineer concerned, even if they are not
mentioned in the technical specification.

when scheduling the contract, taking into account the customers approval
times and relevant procurement times.

Symbols and conventions

KEY STATUS

The standardised symbol according to IEC 617-2 1983 is as follows:

Key control
The French standard NFC03-202 195 has added:
Removable key control for the position shown
Captive key control for the position shown
Experience has shown that these symbols are not easy to read.
In order to facilitate readers understanding, we have retained Merlin Gerin
symbols in our documents, which seem to us to be simpler to use:

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key
simpler
representation of the key input

less risk of error: since the representation of the key status is very different.
it enables the number of keys to be checked and to locate them
according to the locking status shown.

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

LOCKING STATUS SYMBOLS

Drawing the locks in order that they act on a diagramatically represented

mechanism via a cam or a rack so that they can be understood.

90

LOCK REFERENCING

Reference locks using as few characters as possible (letters or numbers).

We advise not to exceed 6 characters.
Referencing example

Switchboard name followed by the cubicle number followed by the sequence

number of the lock fitted to the cubicle.
GLA switchboard cubicle no. 9:
A.9.1.; A.1.2; A.1.3;
GLB switchboard cubicle no. 12:
B.12.1.; B.12.2;
A lock belongs to a cubicle if its key is captive when the cubicle is live
(e.g.: circuit-breaker withdrawn, earthing switch closed locking systems).
REPRESENTING LOCKS

Locks are represented differently depending on their type:

dead lock

cam lock

door lock

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

Examples of locking systems

Locking of an MV/MV transformer substation

12

GLA

GLB

A.9.1

Removable key
O Key missing

B.12.1

B.12.1

A.9.1

B.9.2

B.12.2

A.9.2

Captive key

B.12.2

Locking of an MV/LV transformer substation

GLC switchboard cubicle no. 23

C.23.1; C.23.2;

23 GLC
LV
LV

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

C.23.1
LV
C.23.1
MV

LV

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2

BASIC LOCKING SYSTEMS

PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

a) Locking system to lock a circuit-breaker in the withdrawn position

b) Lock prohibiting operation under load of an isolating switch carriage

(locking in two positions) and lock securing the carriage in the withdrawn
position

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

c) Locking system to lock an earthing switch in the open and closed

earthing switch
locked closed
earthing switch
locked open

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

d) Rotating cam locks for locking a disconnector in either open

or closed position

90

90

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

e) Locks for locking plug-in terminals of a power transformer

Have the transformer supplier specify the type of locks to be ordered.

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

f) Doors locks

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2

Design procedure

PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

Draw the switchboard single line layout and show the closed doors,
as well as the devices withdrawn and open.

Complete the single line layout for upstream and downstream

equipment, if known, that is linked directly to our equipment.
Schematically represent our equipments internal locking systems.

In the case of special cubicles, the locking systems will be ensured by locks
or simple mechanisms.
Draw up an inventory of locking conditions to be fulfilled in relation
to the cubicles encountered.

incomer: transformer, line, generator

feeder: transformer, motor, capacitor
coupling:

Find out any special locking conditions, expressed on the customers

order, additional to those mentioned in the previous paragraph.
In relation to the various products involved, be sure of:

the type of lock to use;

the installation options for the various cubicle mechanisms.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
A locking system must be understandable solely by reading the layout.

An explanatory document should only be produced on request of the customer.

All locking system layouts must be checked.

A badly designed locking system is a source of accidents and disputes which

can lead to legal prosecution.
All locking system layouts must be approved by the customer.

If our scope of supply includes locks to be installed on upstream or

downstream equipment, the customer must specify the reference

numbers of the key profiles to be ordered.

If we have to install locks additional to existing locks on our equipment,

the customer must specify the types of locks to be ordered.

Should this prove impossible, pairing of the keys on a welded ring should
be considered.

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS (contd)

PERFORMING A LOCKING
DESIGN STUDY (contd)

It is the Sales Engineer who defines the scope of supply in relation

to locking.
Do not underestimate the risks run should locking be omitted for
economic reasons.
If we know nothing about the upstream and downstream cubicles,

there are 3 possible courses of action in relation to earthing switch locking

systems for the incomer and feeder cubicles (except in the case of a motor
feeder):
do nothing: very inadvisable.
install the following permanent instructional/warning sign near the
operating device and offer the customer the option of padlocking it:
Before closing the earthing switch, ensure that the voltage
display lights are off and that cables are de-energised.

This solution should be avoided; although the permanent instructional/warning

sign does draw the operators attention, it is dangerous to mix locking systems
and instructions.
lock the earthing switch in the open position and indicate
the locks make, reference and combination number on the locking layout.
This last solution is advised; it is cheap and, in the long-term, allows
suppliers of the upstream and downstream equipment to complement their
locking system.
An example of lock specification form may be supplied on request.

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
EXAMPLES OF LOCKING
SYSTEMS

ACCESS TO AN MV/MV TRANSFORMER ROOM

11 kV cubicle 9
S1 D9

ST13A

Removable key
O Key missing

5.5 kV cubicle 13

S1 D9

S9

Captive key

ST13A

S9
TR13

De-energising the cubicle and the transformer room

Trip, withdraw and lock circuit Trip and withdraw

breaker in the withdrawn position

Key S1D9 may be removed

circuit-breaker

Unlock earthing switch

using key S1D9

Key S1D9 is captive
Unlock earthing switch

using key ST13A

Key ST13A is captive

Close and lock earthing switch

in the closed position

Key ST13A may be removed

Close and lock earthing switch

in the closed position

Key S9 may be removed

Unlock door of transformer room

using key S9
Key S9 is captive

Energising the cubicle and transformer room

Carry out the above actions in reverse sequence (7 to 1).

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
EXAMPLES OF LOCKING
SYSTEMS (contd)

ACCESS TO AN MV/LV TRANFORMER ROOM

5.5 kV cubicle No.16

380 V - LV

BT7

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

BT7
S16
S16

De-energising the cubicle and transformer room

Trip and withdraw

circuit-breaker

Trip and withdraw

contactor

Lock circuit-breaker
in the withdrawn position

Key BT7 may be removed

Unlock earthing switch

using key BT7

Key BT7 is captive

Close and lock earthing switch

in the closed position
Key S16 may be removed

Unlock transformer room door

using key S16

Key S16 is captive

Energising the cubicle and transformer room

Carry out the above actions in reverse sequence (6 to 1).

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2

CONVENTIONAL FUNCTIONAL LOCKING SYSTEMS --------------------------------------------- 11

EARTHING INTERLOCKING
Generator incomer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
HV/MV transformer incomer

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12

Switchboard incomer/feeder

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13

through a circuit-breaker ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13

through a disconnector ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13

Transformer incomer/feeder ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14

MV/MV ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
MV/LV ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 14

Motor feeder --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15

Capacitor feeder

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15

FUNCTIONAL INTERLOCKING
Incomers which must not operate in parallel

-------------------------------------------------- 16

Two incomers on same busbar (1/2) ------------------------------------------------------------- 16

Two incomers and one coupling (2/3) ---------------------------------------------------------- 16

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
CONVENTIONAL
FUNCTIONAL LOCKING
SYSTEMS

Functional locking

Circuit-breaker withdrawn
Earthing switch
can be closed

Circuit-breaker plugged in
Earthing switch
cannot be closed

Earthing switch open

Circuit-breaker
can be plugged in

Earthing switch closed

Circuit-breaker
cannot be plugged in

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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
TYPICAL INTERLOCKING
SYSTEMS

EARTHING INTERLOCKING
Generator incomer
10 kV

10 kV

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

B
A

A
G

G
Excitation
interlocking

Excitation
cabinet

HV/MV transformer incomer

Removable key
O Key missing

110 kV
A

Captive key

110 kV

HV

10 kV MV

A
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10 kV

page 12

Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
TYPICAL INTERLOCKING
SYSTEMS (contd)

Switchboard incomer/feeder

through a circuit-breaker

through a disconnector
Without earthing switch

10 kV

With earthing switch

10 kV

10 kV

B
A

B
A

B
10 kV

B
10 kV

B
10 kV

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key
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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
TYPICAL INTERLOCKING
SYSTEMS (contd)

Transformer incomer/feeder

MV/LV

MV/MV
With MV/LV transformer
10 kV

With plug-in busbars

10 kV

10 kV

C
C
D

10 kV MV
6 kV MV

C
10 kV MV

10 kV MV

0.4 kV LV

0.4 kV LV

D
A

B
6 kV

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B
0.4 kV

B
0.4 kV

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

page 14

Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2

Motor feeder
6 kV

TYPICAL INTERLOCKING
SYSTEMS (contd)

Capacitor feeder

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key
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Medium voltage locking systems

APPENDIX 2
TYPICAL INTERLOCKING
SYSTEMS (contd)

Removable key
O Key missing

Captive key

FUNCTIONAL INTERLOCKING
Incomers which must not operate in parallel
Two incomers on same busbar (1/2)

10 kV

Two incomers and one coupling (2/3)

Removable key
O Key missing

10 kV

Captive key
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