AVTM246100B

Revision B
June 2003

Instruction Manual AVTM246100B

for
Battery Ground Fault Tracer

Patent No. 4,546,309

HIGH-VOLTAGE EQUIPMENT
Read this entire manual before operating.

APARATO DE ALTO VOLTAJE

Ante de operar este producto lea este manual enteramente.

M
Valley Forge Corporate Center
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403 U.S.A.

610-676-8500 (Telephone)
610-676-8610 (Fax)

www.megger.com
Battery Ground
Fault Tracer
Instruction Manual
Copyright© 2003 by Megger. All rights reserved.

The information presented in this manual is believed to be adequate for the intended use of the
product. If the product or its individual instruments are used for purposes other than those specified
herein, confirmation of their validity and suitability must be obtained from Megger. Refer to the
warranty information below. Specifications are subject to change without notice.

WARRANTY

Products supplied by Megger are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one year following shipment. Our liability is specifically limited to replacing or repairing, at
our option, defective equipment. Equipment returned to the factory for repair must be shipped
prepaid and insured. Contact your Megger representative for instructions and a return authorization
(RA) number. Please indicate all pertinent information, including problem symptoms. Also specify
the serial number and the catalog number of the unit. This warranty does not include batteries,
lamps or other expendable items, where the original manufacturer’s warranty shall apply. We make
no other warranty. The warranty is void in the event of abuse (failure to follow recommended
operating procedures) or failure by the customer to perform specific maintenance as indicated in this
manual.

M
Valley Forge Corporate Center
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403 U.S.A.

610-676-8500 (Telephone)
610-676-8610 (Fax)

www.megger.com
 Contents

1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................................. 1
About the BGFT….................................................................................................................................................. 1
How the BGFT Works............................................................................................................................................ 2
Applications for the BGFT.................................................................................................................................... 2
Upon Receipt of the BGFT ................................................................................................................................... 3
Safety First.................................................................................................................................................................. 4
How to Use This Manual........................................................................................................................................ 4
Typographic Conventions.................................................................................................................................. 4
2 SAFETY....................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Overview..................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Connection to Power Source ................................................................................................................................. 6
Fuse Replacement..................................................................................................................................................... 7
3 CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS .................................................................................. 9
Overview..................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Transmitter (Figure 2)............................................................................................................................................ 10
Receiver (Figure 4).................................................................................................................................................. 12
Current Probe .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
4 OPERATION........................................................................................................................................................... 15
General ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Transmitter Connections ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Applying Transmitter Power................................................................................................................................ 17
Applying Transmitter Test Voltage.................................................................................................................... 18
Receiver Connections and Applying Power..................................................................................................... 19
Defining The Fault................................................................................................................................................. 20
Bridge Operation .................................................................................................................................................... 21
Tracing The Fault.................................................................................................................................................... 22
Instrument Shutdown Procedure........................................................................................................................ 22
5 APPLICATION NOTES...................................................................................................................................... 23
6 MAINTENANCE & REPAIR............................................................................................................................ 29
Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
dc Fuse Test and Replacement ....................................................................................................................... 30
ac Line Fuse Test and Replacement .............................................................................................................. 32
Battery Replacement (Receiver)...................................................................................................................... 32
Repair......................................................................................................................................................................... 33
7 SPECIFICATIONS & REPLACEABLE PARTS .......................................................................................... 35
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................... 35
Environmental .................................................................................................................................................... 35
Transmitter .......................................................................................................................................................... 35
Operational .......................................................................................................................................................... 36
Receiver ................................................................................................................................................................ 36
Standard Accessories......................................................................................................................................... 36
Replaceable Parts List............................................................................................................................................ 37

i
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Battery Ground Fault Tracer and Accessories..................................................................................... 3

Figure 2: Transmitter Control Panel........................................................................................................................10
Figure 3: Voltage Selector Card Orientation........................................................................................................11
Figure 4: Receiver Case (Front/Back).....................................................................................................................12
Figure 5: On-Line Diagram of Example ................................................................................................................24
Figure 6: Panel 31 AB .................................................................................................................................................26
Figure 7: Terminal Block MM...................................................................................................................................27
Figure 8: Main Distribution Panels..........................................................................................................................28

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INTRODUCTION

About the BGFT…

NOTE: Before attempting to use the BGFT, be sure

that you read and understand the safety requirements
and operating procedures contained in this manual.

Thank you for selecting a Megger product. This instrument has been
thoroughly tested and inspected to meet rigid specifications before being
shipped.
It is ready for use when set up and operated as described in this manual.

This manual contains instructions for the operation of the Battery

Ground Fault Tracer, Catalog Number 246100B. See Figure 1. The
equipment comprises a transmitter, receiver, source leads, current probe,
feedback cable, and instruction manual. The transmitter is housed in a
rugged plastic enclosure; the other items are housed in a separate
accessories bag.
The Battery Ground Fault Tracer locates ground faults in ungrounded dc
battery systems. Various standards require action when the impedance
between any battery polarity and earth ground falls below a specified
limit. In the case of nuclear-fueled plants, the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission (NRC) requires audits and appropriate action when this
impedance is deemed unsafe. Other facilities come under the guidelines
of the National Electric Code, NFPA, IEEE standards, and OSHA
requirements for safe operation of dc battery systems in an ungrounded
environment.

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How the BGFT Works

The Battery Ground Fault Tracer applies a 20 Hz signal between the

battery bus and station ground. This is accomplished by connecting
the transmitter via the source leads to an accessible battery bus and
to a ground bus located in a distribution cabinet. A two-step process
then begins to identify both the magnitude and location of the fault.
First, suspect feeder cables are identified by measuring the flow of
fault current to ground on all the output circuits from the cabinet,
and then a bridge balance measurement is performed to determine
the value of capacitance and resistance of the suspected ground fault.

The resistance and capacitance bridge located on the transmitter is

used to determine the value of the fault impedance in real and
imaginary terms (resistance and capacitive reactance) while the
amplitude of the signal current injected into the suspect feeder cable
is monitored with the receiver. Three stages of amplification can be
selected to identify and find faults to 399 kΩ. The red feedback wire
(supplied) is used as a canceling feature for the injected signal as
compared with the bridge selected impedance.

Isolating the fault to a specific location may require moving the

equipment downstream in a distribution system. Once a fault
resistance is quantified, the bridge and feedback portion of the
procedure can be dismissed and the fault can be tracked by
evaluating feeder lines of a subpanel. If the current value decreases
after several steady or increasing readings, then the location is in the
opposite direction.

Applications for the BGFT

The BGFT, Battery Ground Fault Tracer, can find ground faults in
ungrounded battery systems in:·
Substations
Generating Stations
UPS Systems
Any other ungrounded dc system
For information about other installations that might benefit from
impedance testing, contact Megger.

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 INTRODUCTION

Upon Receipt of the BGFT

Check the equipment received against the packing list to ensure that
all materials are present. Notify Megger of any shortage.
Telephone (610) 676-8500.
Examine the instrument for damage received in transit. If any
damage is discovered, file a claim with the carrier at once and notify
Megger or its nearest authorized sales representative, giving a
detailed description of the damage.
This instrument has been thoroughly tested and inspected to meet
rigid specifications before being shipped. It is ready for use when set
up as indicated in this manual.
The BGFT instrument is shown in Figure 1. The BGFT includes the
following components and accessories.
transmitter clamp-on current sensor (CT)
receiver with 9-volt battery feedback loop
current source leads line cord
instruction manual

Figure 1: Battery Ground Fault Tracer and Accessories

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Safety First

Be sure to read the safety information in Section 2 thoroughly and

observe all safety precautions and recommendations.

How to Use This Manual

Typographic
Conventions
Figures and tables are numbered in sequence by section.
Numbered lists show procedural steps.
Bullets list items and options.
Buttons represent elements on the BGFT control panel.

Cautions alert you to possible damage to equipment.

G CAUTION
Never allow water to enter the case of
the BGFT.

F
Warnings alert you to conditions that are potentially WARNING
hazardous to people.
Always power off and disconnect the
BGFT before cleaning it.

Notes provide important information. NOTE: Very high impedances exhibit low resolution
readings on the receiver. To obtain better resolution, wrap
an additional turn around the clamp-on jaws of the current
probe thereby doubling the fault current. Remember to
divide the bridge capacitance by the number of turns and to
multiply the bridge resistance by the number of turns to
identify the fault impedance.

Margin notes offer extra information and assistance.

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SAFETY

Overview
The BGFT and its recommended operating procedures have been
designed with careful attention to safety. However, it is not possible to
eliminate all hazards from electrical test equipment or to foresee every
possible hazard that may occur. The user not only must follow the
safety precautions contained in this manual, but also must carefully
consider all safety aspects of the operation before proceeding.
It should be understood that any use of electricity inherently involves
some degree of safety hazard. While every effort has been made by
Megger to reduce the hazard, the user must assume responsibility for
his own safety. Any work on large batteries is hazardous and requires
constant attention to safety; particularly guard against the possibility of
acid spills, explosion, and electrical shock.
The responsibility of the user is not limited to his/her own safety;
he/she must also be responsible for all persons in the vicinity. The
distribution system to which the Battery Ground Fault Tracer is
connected can be extensive and therefore the user must be aware of
the consequences of applying up to 50 Vac to the dc system and the
effect on the operation and safety of the entire system.

The BGFT has been designed to the IEC-1010-1 safety standards.

Observe all industry standard safety rules for tracing ground faults.
The Battery Ground Fault Tracer is designed for connection
to energized systems. Keep the power on/off switch set to 0
(off) when making connections or disconnections at the
battery. The output of the Battery Ground Fault Tracer and
the system to which it is connected are sources of high
voltage. Always wear rubber gloves during these operations.
Safety is the responsibility of the user.
The purpose of this equipment is limited to use as described
in this manual. Do not use the equipment or its accessories
for any purpose other than specifically described.
Do not operate in an explosive atmosphere. Explosive gases
can be present around batteries. A properly vented battery
environment is considered safe, but it is the responsibility of

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the user to verify conditions prior to using the Battery

Ground Fault Tracer.
Wear protective clothing and eye protection to guard against
skin and eye damage from battery acid.
Ensure that test leads and probes are in good condition, clean
and free of broken or cracked insulation.
Observe the following cautions marked on the transmitter panel.
1. For use on ungrounded systems only.

2. Set power switch to off prior to connecting or disconnecting

output leads to battery.
3. Connect output leads to J3 before connecting to battery system.

4. Ensure output ground connection is made to system earth ground.

5. Adhere to all industry standards for testing battery systems.

This instrument is only to be used by suitably trained personnel who

are familiar with the hazards involved in testing high-voltage dc
systems.

CAUTION

G Refer fuse replacement to qualified service personnel

only. To prevent electric shock and fire hazard, use only
the fuse specified in the parts list which is identical in
respect to type, voltage rating, and current rating.

Connection to Power Source

The power input plug must be inserted only into a mating receptacle
with a ground contact. Do not bypass the grounding connection. Any
interruption of the grounding connection can create an electric shock
hazard. Make sure that the receptacle is properly wired before inserting
the plug.

The test set is supplied with a brown, blue and green/yellow supply
cord, the brown cord lead must be connected to the live pole and the
white or blue cord lead must be connected to the neutral pole of an
approved power input plug. The green/yellow ground lead of the input
supply cord must be connected to the protective ground (earth) contact
of the input plug.
The BGFT test instruments operate from a single-phase power source.
The three-wire power cord requires a two-pole, three-terminal, live,
neutral, and ground type connector. The voltage to ground from either
pole of the power source must not exceed the maximum rated
operating voltage (250 V dc).

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 SAFETY

Before connecting to the ac power source, determine that the

instrument rating matches the voltage of the power source and has a
suitable two-pole, three-terminal grounding type connector.

Fuse Replacement

. Refer fuse replacement to qualified personnel only. To prevent electric

shock and fire hazard, use only the fuse specified (see Section 7:
Specifications & Replaceable Parts), which is identical with respect to type,
voltage rating, and current rating.

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CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND

CONNECTORS
Overview

This chapter explains the locations and functions of the controls and indicators
for the BGFT transmitter and receiver. The first section covers the BGFT
transmitter and second covers the receiver.

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Transmitter (Figure 2)

Output Voltage Meter Output Current Meter

Output Voltage Switch

J2

J3

F1 & Voltage Cards

J1
FEEDBACK
CONTROL POWER
MODULE

Power
Switch

Ready Indicator

Figure 2: Transmitter Control Panel

J1 receptacle ― 110 V ac, 50/60 Hz or 240 V ac 50/60 Hz receptacle for ac

power. Power on/off switch controls power entry. The switch is electrically
connected to two fuses rated 2 AT at 110 V ac or two fuses rated 1 AT at 240 V
ac. Overcurrent due to an internal fault condition removes ac power to the
power supplies. Refer to Section 6, Maintenance and Repair, for fuse replacement
instructions. Use standard three wire line cord supplied with this instrument.

WARNING

F Under no circumstances should the third wire ground

(green/yellow wire) connection to the ac power line be
disconnected or its continuity altered in any way.

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 CONTROLS, INDICATORS & CONNECTIONS

VOLTAGE SELECTOR ― The arrow located on the connector panel directly

to above the J1 receptacle should point to the indicator on the fuse carrier that
corresponds with the proper voltage (100V, 120V, 230V or 240V). It is set to
120V at the factory.

To change the selected voltage: open the fuse cover using a small blade screw
driver or similar tool. Pull the voltage selector card straight out of the housing,
using the indicator pin. Orient the indicator pin ton point up when the desired
voltage is legible at the bottom. Insert the voltage selector card into the housing
with the printed side of the card facing forward toward the IEC connector and
edge containing the desired voltage first. Replace cover and verify the indicator
pin shows the desired voltage.

Figure 3: Voltage Selector Card Orientation

F1 - FUSES ― At the factory, the 2A fuses are installed for 100V and 120V
operation. If 230V or 240V operation is required, change both fuses to 1A fuses
(included).

J2 FEEDBACK ― dual banana jack colored red and black receives connections
from the feedback cable supplied. The dual banana plug end of the lead should
match up with the dual banana jack receptacle.

J3 VOLTAGE OUTPUT jack ― receptacle for the current source leads. Insert
by lining up the keyway with the receptacle slot and push in and turn to the
right.

WARNING

F The wiring for this connector is specific. A hazard to personnel

and equipment could result if the connections to either end of this
connector are compromised.

OUTPUT VOLTAGE meter ― Three digit LCD shows representative

terminal voltage at J3. This voltage is controlled by the VOLTAGE CONTROL
dial mounted directly below the meter. Turning the VOLTAGE CONTROL
clockwise increases output voltage.

OUTPUT CURRENT meter ― Three digit LCD indicates any current in

excess of 10 mA produced by the transmitter. This includes the feedback current
as well as the fault current.

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OUTPUT VOLTAGE CONNECT/DISCONNECT switch ― This switch,

situated below the OUTPUT CURRENT meter, disconnects the internal power
amplifier output from the feedback and source connector and allows for open
circuit calibration of the source voltage. This is particularly useful in utility
applications where alarms or trip devices may activate with the introduction of
excessive ac voltage.

READY indicator ― Amber lamp when lit indicates the state of readiness of
the transmitter power oscillator. Sufficient time is allowed for charging of the dc
blocking capacitors located on the output and feedback circuits.

FEEDBACK CONTROL switches (manual bridges) ― Six switches, three

CAPACITANCE and three RESISTANCE, control the bridge mechanism.
Turning clockwise increases the respective component value.

Receiver (Figure 4)

Figure 4 shows the receiver case.

Current Probe
Inputs
Gain Selector
Switch

Manufacturing
Information
Label
Battery
LED

Battery
Compartment
Meter

Figure 4: Receiver Case (Front/Back)

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 CONTROLS, INDICATORS & CONNECTIONS

GAIN selector switch ― Four-position lateral switch for selecting

power on, 1, X10, and X100 gain. There is also an OFF position and a
latched BAT. TEST position which tests internal 9 V battery supply
voltage.

BAT. LED ― This green LED indicates an adequate internal 9 V

battery voltage. This LED lights when the selector switch is depressed
fully to the BAT. TEST position.
CURRENT PROBE inputs ― Two banana jacks are provided. These
should correspond to the mating plugs of the current sensor.
Meter ― Three and one-half digit display shows the magnitude of
signal current sensed by the current probe and amplified by the selected
gain.

Battery compartment ― Situated on the reverse side of the receiver,

access to the battery can be made by turning the slotted screw
counterclockwise until loose.
Manufacturing information label ― Contains catalog number and
serial number.

Current Probe

Current probe jaw opening control ― Press the handle extensions

together until the opening is sufficient to encompass the cable under
test.

Direction arrow ― Since the probe aids in locating fault direction, the
consistent orientation of the probe needs to be maintained by observing
the red marking.

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OPERATION
General

Once a ground fault condition is revealed either through monitoring

equipment or inspection, the Battery Ground Fault Tracer can be
used to identify, track, and locate the fault or faults in the dc
distribution system. The Battery Ground Fault Tracer should be
positioned at the highest level of distribution known to be fault free.
Obviously, the farther away from the fault the unit is located, the
longer it takes to locate. The distributed capacitance of cabling masks
the resistive portion of the fault as distance is increased.
Once a distribution cabinet is selected, locate the nearest appropriate
outlet (120 V ac, 50/60 Hz or 240 V ac, 50/60 Hz and position the
transmitter within the maximum ac line cord length supplied with the
unit. As previously mentioned, only a grounded three-wire ac line
cord should be connected to the transmitter and the ground wire
should not be interrupted by extension cords or adapters. Refer to
Section 2, Safety, before connecting and operating the Battery Ground
Fault Tracer.

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Transmitter Connections

The Battery Ground Fault Tracer can be used while the distribution
system is in full operation. If safety regulations require otherwise,
follow all operating and maintenance procedures specified at your
facility.
1. Remove sufficient cabinetwork to expose the dc supply bus
and feeder connections. Identify the ground bus and the
various supply bus connections. Some dc distribution
systems have taps on their battery to supply two voltage
systems. Common labeling is "P" for the most positive
battery terminal; "PN" to identify the tap connection; and
"N" to identify the most negative terminal. Other identifiers
such as "A" system and "B" system are also used. Consult
distribution schematics before connecting to the system if
there is any question or if labeling is not clear.
2. Once the cabling for feeders and the dc bus is exposed,
locate the 20-ft source leads in the accessories bag. This
two-wire cable can be identified by the black, four-pin
connector at one end and two alligator clip type connectors
at the other end. The connectors on the clip end are
distinguished from each other by their colors. The black clip
represents the system ground connection and the red clip
represents the battery bus connection. Connect the black
source lead to the system ground.

WARNING

F The black source lead corresponds to the intended

ground connection. It should be attached only to the
ground bus bar or frame ground.

CAUTION

G
The red source lead corresponds to the live output
connection. It should be attached only to the battery
bus connections. Inadvertent connection of the red
source lead to the ground bus bar or frame could result
in equipment damage.

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 OPERATION

3. Attach the black connector to J3 of the transmitter by

inserting with the key positioned and turning the locking
collar clockwise until snug.
4. Attach the black source lead to the system ground
connection in the distribution cabinet. Attach the red source
lead to any one of the battery bus connections. If there is a
tapped battery and the fault is suspected on only one system,
then choose the appropriate bus connection. Connect all
source lead terminations.
5. Ensure that the power switch marked 0 (off) and │ (on) is
set to 0. Insert the female end of the ac line cord into the
power receptacle located in the lower left corner of the
transmitter and marked J1. Insert the male end into the
appropriate outlet (120 V ac or 240 V ac.)
6. Finally, connect the feedback cable, a single conductor wire
with dual banana plug connectors at the end. The plug has a
ground indicator to aid in polarity indication. The current
probe plugs into the two receptacles on the receiver.
All connectors for the transmitter front panel should now be
connected with a cable. Proceed to the next step, "Applying
Transmitter Power."

Applying Transmitter Power

Before applying power, check all connections, set the following

controls as specified, and adhere to all cautions listed on the upper-
right portion of the transmitter control panel and those outlined in
this manual.
1. Set VOLTAGE CONTROL fully counterclockwise to
MIN.
2. Set the OUTPUT VOLTAGE switch to DISCONNECT.

3. Set all CAPACITANCE selector switches fully

counterclockwise to their minimum position (blue numbers).

4. Set the RESISTANCE selector switches fully clockwise with

the left-most switch set to OPEN (blue numbers)..
5. Set the power switch at J1 to │ (on). After a delay of
approximately 30 seconds, the amber READY light should
light, indicating that the transmitter is ready for operation.

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Applying Transmitter Test Voltage

The amount of test voltage required will greatly depend upon the
magnitude of fault impedance to be located and the system
requirements for injected signals onto the distribution bus. The
larger the signal applied, the more current will be available to the
fault impedance and the more resolution capability the receiver will
exhibit. For this example, let us choose 10 V for the output.
1. The injected signal is applied to the distribution bus through
the voltage output cable connector J3 and the output
disconnect switch. To make the test voltage available to the
distribution, set OUTPUT VOLTAGE switch to
CONNECT.
2. While observing the OUTPUT VOLTAGE display, slowly
turn the VOLTAGE CONTROL clockwise. Adjust until
the display reads about 10V. Depending upon the fault
impedance, the OUTPUT CURRENT meter should register
a signal current amplitude.
3. If the fault impedance is too large for the selected output
voltage, as indicated the poor resolution on the receiver
display, increase the voltage by turning the VOLTAGE
CONTROL further clockwise.

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 OPERATION

Receiver Connections and Applying Power

The receiver is a battery-powered device, activated by moving the

slide switch from the OFF position in an upward direction and
selecting a gain position. Depending on signal strength, which is
inversely proportional to the fault impedance, the necessity for
increased gain will be a choice of receiver display resolution.
1. Connect the two parts of the receiver, the clamp-on current
probe that surrounds the cable to be examined and the
display and metering unit, by placing the clamp-on wiring
terminations (banana plugs) into the top part of the receiver
at the mating banana jack connectors.
2. The clamp-on current probe has a red marking to
distinguish positioning polarity as the test progresses. Since
the purpose of the test is to track the injected signal, the
position of the current probe is direction sensitive. As a rule
of thumb, always keep the red marking towards the top of
the cabinet or facing the distribution system upstream
connection.
3. With the transmitter connected as described and given a
fault to ground, move the clamp-on current probe from
feeder cable to feeder cable until a definitive reading is
displayed on the receiver meter. The receiver will sense the
presence of the injected current flowing from the transmitter
through the distribution cabinet to the cable with a fault to
ground. It is a good practice to check all the feeder cables
located in the cabinet and then return to those indicating
current paths. Once a suspect feeder is identified, it is time
to define the fault impedance.
4. Defining the fault impedance (see Defining the Fault) is the
better, more accurate method to locate ground faults. But it
is a somewhat complex process. Another way to locate
ground faults is to trace the circuits with the higher receiver
values without using the feedback loop to determine which
faults are real and which are phantom (Phantom faults are
caused by high capacitance sections). It is recommended to
use the feedback loop on the first panel to possibly eliminate
high capacitance sections. Then while leaving the transmitter
at its location (see Tracing the Fault) use the receiver to trace
all other high readings until all faults are located. After all of
the faults have been located follow the Instrument
Shutdown Procedure below.

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Defining The Fault

The contributing impedance to ground can be defined by using the

feedback cable and the bridge section of the transmitter. During the
search for the fault, the initial connection is usually made at an
upstream cabinet and may be some distance from the actual fault
location.

This distance to the fault involves much wiring and many switch
mechanisms. The distributive capacitance of this cable and switch
mechanism may mask the true fault path with a high capacitance to
ground. This capacitance at 20 Hz could present a low impedance to
ground and prompt a search on the wrong feeder cable (phantom
fault).
To help eliminate false impedance to ground, a feedback cable
coupled to a decade bridge that defines the true impedance and
allows a true resistance value of the fault to be recognized. This is
accomplished by looping the feedback cable through the clamp-on
current probe and thereby canceling the effect of resistance and
capacitance on the measured injected fault current.

NOTE: Very high impedances exhibit low resolution

readings on the receiver. To obtain better resolution, wrap
an additional turn around the clamp-on jaws of the current
probe thereby doubling the fault current. Remember to
divide the bridge capacitance by the number of turns and to
multiply the bridge resistance by the number of turns to
identify the fault impedance.

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 OPERATION

Bridge Operation

Capacitance With the FEEDBACK CONTROL switches set to the blue

numbers as described in the paragraph on "Transmitter Connections,"
start with the capacitance section of the bridge. Observe the receiver
display and dial in a capacitance from the bridge section. If the
feedback cable is properly aligned, the displayed reading should start
to decrease or remain the same.
If the displayed value starts to increase, then the feedback cable is
entering the current probe from the wrong direction. Either reverse
direction at the transmitter panel or change the orientation of the
cable at the current probe.
If the displayed value remains the same, then the fault impedance is
resistive in content and no further capacitance nulling is required.
However, it is common for the displayed value on the receiver unit
to reflect some capacitive effect. This is caused by the capacitance to
ground in the feeder cable being investigated. Continue to dial in the
capacitance values until either the displayed value reverses direction
or the meter reaches minimum. If there are multiple turns of the
feedback cable around the current probe, multiply the null balance
capacitance displayed on the transmitter dials by the number of
turns.

When the travel of the displayed value reverses direction, then the
feedback capacitance is contributing to rather than canceling the
capacitive impedance effect. Adjust to a minimum and proceed to
the resistive balance. If the displayed value reaches zero or some
minimal value and increasing the gain of the receiver does not
provide any more resolution, then the path chosen contains no
resistive path to ground measurable to the specifications of this
device. Resistances at this point will be close to 1 MΩ.

Resistance After the feeder cable capacitance has been determined and no
further addition of feedback capacitance reduces the displayed value,
and may even start to increase the value, then the remaining fault
impedance can be identified using the resistive portion of the bridge
and feedback circuitry.

Move the left-most or highest value switch to the OPEN position

and decrease the resistance selected until the displayed value reaches
a null condition. Increasing the gain selector on the receiver provides
resolution when required. Use the marked resistance dials to
determine a value of fault resistance measured to ground. If there are
multiple turns of the feedback cable around the current probe, divide
the null balance resistance displayed on the transmitter dials by the
number of turns.

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Tracing The Fault

Once the fault impedance is defined and a suspected downstream

path is determined, tracing the fault can begin. Continue tracing
faults by:
1. Shutting down the transmitter by following the Instrument
Shutdown Procedure below.

2. Move the transmitter to the next location and reconnect to

the buss.
3. Follow the Bridge Operation procedure in the previous
section to locate the resistive faults. Keep the polarity of the
current probe correct, at all times. When the displayed value
decreases or reverses polarity, the location of the fault has
been passed.
4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 until all faults are located in the dc
system.

Instrument Shutdown Procedure

It is important to the safety of the operator and to the future

operation of the Battery Ground Fault Tracer that an orderly
shutdown and removal from the dc bus under test be accomplished.
1. Turn the VOLTAGE CONTROL fully counterclockwise.
2. Set the OUTPUT VOLTAGE switch to DISCONNECT.
3. Set the ac power switch to 0 (off).
4. Remove the red source lead first and then the black source
lead from the dc bus under test.
5. Remove the clamp-on device and the feedback cable from
the receiver and transmitter cases, respectively.
6. Disconnect the ac power cord from the system source.

7. Carefully replace all components in the accessory bag and

secure the transmitter case.

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APPLICATION NOTES

Shortcuts

The following shortcuts can be used to save time when locating

grounds:
1. A typical utility environment will have four main dc panels
represented by one ground recorder. If physically possible,
check the main cables or bus work feeding each cabinet
(negative and positive) for the injected signal.
2. If a large imbalance of injected signal is observed with the
receiver, start with the cabinet containing the largest signal
level. The feedback circuit can be used, but remember that
the resistance found is a total of all feeder resistances in
parallel.
3. If a main feeder cable having ground current is detected and
the cable is traced to a cabinet with many jumpers, divide and
conquer. Move the receiver at a distance halfway from the
last measurement point until the fault current disappears and
reverse direction until the fault is located.
4. It is not necessary to move the transmitter every time you
relocate to another cabinet during tracing. Moving is only
necessary if the signal splits and the validity of the signal
(resistive or capacitive current) requires the feedback circuit.
5. Remember to disable the ground monitor test resistor to
ground before tracing a suspected fault. The low impedance
of this test resistor may mask the parallel fault impedance.

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Example of Test

Power generating station XYZ requires assistance in locating a dc

negative ground on its 120 V control battery bus. The Battery Ground
Fault Tracer is made ready in accordance with the instruction manual,
making sure that the black lead is connected to the ground bus or
suitable grounded point. Power system regulations limit bus
perturbations to 10 V rms, so the transmitter output signal amplitude
is preadjusted to that level. A data sheet is used to record the results
and to help determine a pattern of search along with sufficient system
one-line diagrams. The main distribution panels marked 10 AJ and 20
AJ are checked for signal strength (Fig. 5). There is no large difference
between the negative and positive bus so a decision to start at panel
10 AJ is made.

Figure 5: On-Line Diagram of Example

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All feeder cables are checked (10 AJ 01-20) with the largest signal
strengths on circuits 6, 11, and 19. Using the feedback circuit, circuits
6 and 11, impedances are determined to be capacitive in nature.
However, circuit 19 presents a 5 kΩ resistance in addition to
capacitive reactance on the balance bridge. A check of panel 20 AJ
produces no significant signal levels when checked with the receiver.
The negative bus ground alarm coincides with the significant ground
located in panel 10 AJ. A starting point is determined and station
prints indicate that circuit 19 feeds distribution panel 31 AB.
Panel 31 AB is located in another room and the decision is made to
leave the transmitter connected as is to the main bus and use the
receiver to track the signal. A reading is recorded with the feedback
circuitry removed and the receiver is moved to panel 31 AB (Fig. 5).
At panel 31 AB, the main cable 1SY016 repeats the reading on its
negative lead that was last taken at panel 10 AJ. With the receiver gain
at X10 and the preset signal amplitude the same as before, the display
indicates 0.200. The panel contains six circuit breakers and the signal
is traced to the negative lead of cable 1ST405. Prints indicate that the
cable enters cabinet 19 BAJ and connects to terminal block TB-MM-
4. Furthermore, TB-MM-4 is jumpered to points 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16,
18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 (Fig. 6).
To conserve time and energy, a reading at the entry point, terminal 4
and a midpoint in the jumper string is selected. Terminal 4 signal level
is 0.200; however, jumper 16 to 18 halves the signal to 0.100. Then
proceed back through jumpers 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 and determine
signal strength at their outputs. Signal levels are 0.060 and 0.040 at
terminals 8 and 14, respectively.
Since capacitance was present on the line during initial measurements
at main panel 10 AJ, there is a good possibility that this split in signal
may be capacitive in nature. To determine the true resistance path, the
transmitter must be relocated to this panel and the feedback circuitry
used.
The output of the transmitter is connected to point 4 of terminal
block TB-MM and the black lead to an appropriate ground point. The
output wires of the remaining terminal output points are checked with
the bridge and the only resistive circuit to ground is discovered on
terminal output point number 26.
Prints indicate that point 26 feeds into field cable 101 and proceeds to
the transformer yard (Fig. 7). Leaving the transmitter connected as is,
the receiver minus the feedback lead is moved to the transformer in
the yard. Checking cable 101, we find no signal is present. This
indicates that the ground lies between the cable 101 transformer
connection and point 26 on TB-MM.
This is verified by obtaining permission to lift this circuit and seeing
the ground alarm return to normal. All equipment is de-energized and
packed up for future use.

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Figure 6: Panel 31 AB

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Figure 7: Terminal Block MM

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Figure 8: Main Distribution Panels

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MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

Maintenance

Since the instrument and its components may be used in dirty and
corrosive environments, periodically clean all components and test
leads with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Do not immerse the
transmitter or receiver in water or allow moisture to enter the cases.
Maintenance should only be carried out by qualified personnel.

Periodically (every six months) inspect and clean the case, as previously
described, all test leads, and connections. Inspect the current probe
leads and transmitter source leads for effects of corrosion and wear.
The power on/off switch on the transmitter panel contains a line fuse
to protect the instrument from current overloads. These primary side
fuses are rated for 2 AT at 110 V ac or 1 AT at 240 V ac. A pair of line
output fuses rated at 2 A ac 250 V ac are located internal to the
instrument and are designed to protect the power amplifier in case of
an imbalanced oscillator feed.
The current output leads have a set of fuses, ATM-2 to protect the
operator. These are fast acting, with high interrupting capacity. To
protect the user from possible shock and to protect the transmitter
circuitry in the event of catastrophic component failure, a Gould
ATM2 fuse is mounted internally near the front of the transmitter. This
fuse is coordinated for fast response to a dc inrush from the
distribution system under test.

F
WARNING
Under no circumstances should these fuses be defeated
or replaced with another type fuse. Replace with the type
specified in Section 7 Specifications & Replaceable Parts.

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To verify that the problem is dc fuse related, move the instrument

dc Fuse Test and from the dc distribution system under test by de-energizing the
Replacement equipment and detaching the source leads. With the transmitter source
leads connected to J3, short the two clip ends together, turn the
VOLTAGE CONTROL fully counterclockwise and apply power to
the transmitter. Verify that the ac power remains on and that after the
time delay, the amber READY lamp lights. Observe the ac OUTPUT
CURRENT meter on the transmitter panel, and set the OUTPUT
VOLTAGE switch to CONNECT. Turn the VOLTAGE CONTROL
clockwise until the displayed current value increases from zero. If there
is no output, then the dc fuse is likely damaged or a break has occurred
in the test leads circuit.
If suitably trained personnel are available and fuse replacement is
required, follow this procedure for fuse replacement.
1. Turn the VOLTAGE CONTROL fully counter-clockwise.
2. Set the OUTPUT VOLTAGE switch to DISCONNECT.

3. Remove all ac power to the transmitter by setting the power

on/off switch to 0. Disconnect the ac line cord. Set the
OUTPUT VOLTAGE switch to DISCONNECT.
4. If the current source leads are still connected, remove from the
dc distribution bus under test.

5. Remove the source leads from their J3 connection on the

transmitter front panel.

WARNING

F This instrument contains several large capacitors. During

operation some or all of these capacitors could become
charged up to the capacity of the dc bus under test.
Normally these capacitors are automatically discharged
when the leads are disconnected and the switches are set
to the positions as described in steps 1 through 3.
However, under certain fault conditions, these capacitors
may be left charged. Always use a voltmeter to check the
state of the charge and wear rubber gloves as necessary
when touching the capacitors and the circuits connected
to them.

6. Remove 14 Phillips head screws from the transmitter panel

and lift the chassis to the top of the instrument case. Remove
the entire chassis and rest it on a clean flat surface.
7. Find the fuse located in a double fuse holder. Only one slot of
the fuse holder is wired; the remaining slot houses the spare
fuse.

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 MAINTENACNE & REPAIR

8. Remove the damaged fuse and replace with the spare. Using
an ohmmeter, verify that the fuse is indeed bad.

9. Visually inspect all components within the transmitter chassis

assembly for damage. Since the fuse was installed and sized to
protect under component fault situations, this may indeed be
the case. If no damage is observed, proceed to the next step. If
damage is observed, return the transmitter to the Megger
Repair Department.
10. Replace the chassis in the instrument case, replace the 14
screws and test again as described above. If the instrument still
does not respond correctly, return it to the Megger Repair
Department.

The output amplifier section is configured in a push-pull arrangement

Amplifier Output that requires a measure of dc balance between each output transistor
Fuse Test and array. In the event of component failure or radical calibration drift, the
Replacement outputs become unbalanced and one phase works harder than the
other. This causes an imbalance in the current available and also causes
the individual phase protection fuse to interrupt. Inadvertent
connection to an ac bus could also cause one or both of the fuses to
interrupt.

An indication of this problem is a reduction in current and voltage

available to the output. Normal current available to shorted output
source leads at maximum clockwise adjustment of the VOLTAGE
CONTROL is 1.7 A ac at a voltage of 50 V ac rms. Neither of these
values is attainable in the event of an amplifier output fuse
interruption.
If both fuses interrupted, there would be no output indication
whatsoever, and a symptom similar to an interrupted dc fuse would be
evident.
1. Perform steps 1 through 4 of the procedure for replacement of
the dc fuse.
2. Locate the FET DRIVER PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD in
the middle of the transmitter chassis assembly. The two
amplifier output fuses are located directly beneath the heat
sink and mounted to the printed circuit board in clip fuse
holders.

3. Remove the damaged fuse and replace with a new one. Refer
to Section 7, Specifications & Replaceable Parts, for rating and size.

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If the transmitter does not respond to the application of ac line voltage,

ac Line Fuse Test and check the fuses protecting the ac input circuitry. To check and/or
Replacement replace these fuses, perform the following steps.
1. Perform steps 1 through 3 of the procedure for replacement of
the dc fuse.

2. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, insert the tip into the slot
located at the top of the ac power entrance module J1. The
front face of the module will swing outward.
3. Remove the fuse cartridges located within the module and
marked with an arrow pointing to the right of the transmitter.
4. Replace the fuses and restore the fuse cartridges to their
previous location. Replace the line fuses with direct
replacements as specified in Section 7, Specifications & Replaceable
Parts.
5. Close the front face cover of the ac entrance module and retest
the transmitter. If the fuses continue to interrupt, it is
recommended that the entire unit be sent to the Megger
Repair Department.

The receiver is powered by a 9 V alkaline battery. During normal

Battery Replacement operation, this battery will become depleted and require replacement.
(Receiver) To replace the battery:
1. Remove the battery compartment cover by turning the slotted
screw with a flat blade screwdriver counterclockwise until the
cover separates from the case.
2. Remove the battery and disconnect the battery supply leads.

3. Replace with an adequate substitute battery (refer to Section 7,

Specifications & Replaceable Parts), reconnect the supply lead, and
insert the battery into the case.
Replace the battery compartment cover and reinstall the screw
being careful not to overtighten or cross-thread the restraining
screw.

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 MAINTENACNE & REPAIR

Repair

Megger offers complete repair service and recommends that its

customers take advantage of this service in the event of equipment
malfunction. Please call 610-676-8500 and ask for Customer Service to
obtain an RA #, then ship to:
Megger
ATTN: Repair Department
TEL: 610-675-8500 Valley Forge Corporate Center
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403 U.S.A.
It is best if you return the entire instrument, including leads, to help us
find the source of the problem. Many times the problem appears to be
the transmitter, but the problem is eventually found to be in the
receiver. Please indicate all pertinent information, including problem
symptoms and attempted repairs. Equipment returned for repair must
be shipped prepaid and insured and marked for the attention of the
Repair Department.

Preparation for Storage and Shipment

Remove the battery from the receiver before shipment or long-term

storage. Storage temperature for the Battery Ground Fault Tracer
should not exceed the range -5 to 130°F (-20 to 55°C). Pack in a carton
or box (original shipping container if available) in accordance with best
commercial practice. Seal container with waterproof tape.

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SPECIFICATIONS & REPLACEABLE PARTS

Specifications

Environmental
Operating temperature range: 32 to 105°F (0 to 40°C)
Storage temperature range: -5 to 130°F (-20 to 55°C)
Humidity: 20 to 95% RH noncondensing

Transmitter

Mechanical
Dimensions: 7.5 x 18.5 x 14.6 in. (H x W x D)
(19 x 47 x 37 cm)
Weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)

Electrical
Maximum voltage to ground: 250 V dc
Mains: 100 to 240 V ac, 50/60 Hz, 200 VA max.
Source voltage: variable 0 to 50 V rms
Source current: load dependent 0 to 1.7 A rms
Source frequency: 20 Hz ±2%
Display (volts): three-digit LCD ±5%
Display (current): three-digit LCD ±5%

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Fuses:
dc output, ATM2, 2 A, 600 V dc
FET Driver, time-delay, 2 A, 250 V (internal)
ac line, 5 x 20mm., 2 AT, 110 V ac, time delay
ac line, 5 x 20 mm, 1 AT, 240 V ac, time delay

Operational
Fault resistance: 1 to 399 kΩ @ 50 V
bridge accuracy ±10%
Line capacitance: 0.01 to 11.1 µF
bridge accuracy ±20%

Receiver
Electrical: 9 V alkaline battery
Power (max.): 11 mA at 9 V dc
Battery life: 40 hours continuous use at 20°C (estimated)

Standard Accessories
Source leads, 20 ft (6 m) two each single conductor, 14 AWG, 600 V insulation,
each conductor fused at 2 A, 600 V dc
Current probe, leads, 4 ft (1.2 m)
ac line cord, 6 ft (1.8 m)
Feedback cable, 40 ft (12 m) single conductor, 18 AWG, 600 V insulation
Instruction Manual
Accessories bag

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 SPECIFICATIONS & REPLACEABLE PARTS

Replaceable Parts List

Description Part Number

Accessories bag 29996
ac line cord 17032-7
Battery, 9 V alkaline 1482-1
Clamp-on current probe 29999-1
Feedback cable assembly 29998
Fuses, source lead, ATM 2 A, 600 V dc 29440-2
Fuses, FET Driver, time delay, 2 A, 250 V 2567-27
F1 ac line fuse, 5 x 20 mm 2 AT, 250 V ac 27708-3
F1 ac line fuse, 5 x 20 mm 1 AT, 250 V ac 27708-5
F2 dc fuse, ATM2, 2 A, 600 V dc 29440-2
Instruction manual AVTM246100B
READY lamp bulb 5297-5
Receiver assembly 30001-1
Source lead assembly, 20 ft long, fused leads TYPE ATM, 2 A 29386-3
Transit case (optional) BG-20001

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