Magazine | Issue 1 2022 How often do you test your customers’ breakers? Rick: That depends on the environment in which the breaker is being used, how often it is switched, and many other factors. Some customers have fixed cycles, but if we get the chance to influence those cycles, we take a hybrid approach between time-based and condition-based maintenance. In general, we test medium voltage breakers at least every four years. Mick: We also perform a functional test on high voltage breakers at least every three years, and every six years, we include measurements. You replaced your breaker test set fleet a few years ago. Can you explain why you did that? Rick: Our former test system was developed in the nineties, which are long gone and the application needs have diversified and increased. We wanted a more digital variant and the ability to test with grounding on both sides for safety, but the information technology support tipped the scales for us. Did you go through a unique selection process? Rick: Yes, first we asked our colleagues who work with the devices what they would need from a new device. Our technicians wanted an easy-to-use, compact system that could perform all measurements. Our engineers also preferred one system for all tests. For them, the price and good customer support were also important. In addition, they wanted onsite training to help our technicians use the device as quickly and efficiently as possible. We made a pre-selection with three devices, which we took to a workshop for a week. Our experts tested them on a variety of breakers – 20 kV vacuum, 150 kV air-insulated, 150 kV gas-insulated, and 380 kV air-insulated. The two best devices were then tested on-site with our most unique breakers. Then we summarized both testing sessions and put together the results. In the end, the CIBANO 500 came out on top, so the choice was easy. What is the most significant advantage that the CIBANO 500 offers you? Rick: It’s easy to use, and compared to other test sets, you have to mount fewer devices to perform a complete measurement. If you have the correct template made, you can perform rapid measurements, measure one breaker after the other and save a lot of time. Can you give advice to anyone that has less experience with circuit breaker testing? Mick: Aside from all the inconvenience that comes with a failing breaker, it’s essential to understand the cause of the failure, because that understanding will increase your knowledge. So, if you repair as much as you can by yourself, your knowledge will continue to expand. Thank you for the interview. «Aside from all the inconvenience that comes with a failing breaker, it’s essential to understand the cause of the failure, because that understanding will increase your knowledge.» Mick Huisert, Component Engineer, Qirion 29
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