Offshore Substations Electrical Equipment GL - Iv-7-5 - e PDF

Rules for the Certification and Construction
IV Industrial Services
7 Offshore Substations
5 Electrical Equipment
Edition 2013
The following Rules come into force on 1 October 2013.
Germanischer Lloyd SE
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Phone: +49 40 36149-0
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Germanischer Lloyd SE.
Published by: Germanischer Lloyd SE, Hamburg

Rules IV Industrial Services
Part 7 Offshore Substations
Chapter 5 Electrical Equipment
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

A Genera l ........................................................................................................................... 1- 1
B Definitions ....................................................................................................................... 1- 1
C Electric Network Configuration ....................................................................................... 1- 3
D Environmental Conditions ............................................................................................... 1- 3
E Materials and Insulation .................................................................................................. 1- 4
F Voltages and Frequencies .............................................................................................. 1- 5
G Lightning Protection, Earthing and other Protective Measures ...................................... 1- 6
Section 2 Arrangement of Electrical Facilities

A General ........................................................................................................................... 2- 1
B Auxiliary Power Generation ............................................................................................ 2- 1
C Storage Batteries ............................................................................................................ 2- 2
D Electronics ...................................................................................................................... 2- 6
E Low Voltage Switchboards (up to 1000 V AC resp. 1500 V DC) .................................... 2- 6
F Appliances for High Voltages (> 1 kV AC, 1.5 kV DC) ................................................... 2- 7
Section 3 Auxiliary Power Supply Installation

A General ........................................................................................................................... 3- 1
Section 4 Power Distribution and Electrical Protection

A Power Distribution ........................................................................................................... 4- 1
B Electrical Protective Devices .......................................................................................... 4- 1
C Emergency Generators ................................................................................................... 4- 4
D Storage Batteries ............................................................................................................ 4- 4
E Power Electronics (incl. UPS Rectifiers) ......................................................................... 4- 4
Section 5 Low-Voltage Switchgear Assembly

A General ........................................................................................................................... 5- 1
B Short-Circuit .................................................................................................................... 5- 1
C Design ............................................................................................................................. 5- 3
D Selection of Switchgear .................................................................................................. 5- 5
E Choice of Electrical Protection Equipment ..................................................................... 5- 7
F Conductor and Busbar Carriers ...................................................................................... 5- 9
G Measuring Instruments and Instrument transformers ..................................................... 5- 12
H Testing of LV Switchboards and Switchgear .................................................................. 5- 13
Section 6 High-Voltage Switchgear

A General ........................................................................................................................... 6- 1
Section 7 HVDC Converter Substation

A General ........................................................................................................................... 7- 1
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Table of Contents
B Installation of HVDC Equipment .................................................................................... 7- 2

C Cooling ........................................................................................................................... 7- 3
D Control and Monitoring System ...................................................................................... 7- 3
E Power Transformers and Reactors on Converter Platforms .......................................... 7- 3
Section 8 Power Transformers and Reactors

A General .......................................................................................................................... 8- 1
B Protection ....................................................................................................................... 8- 1
C Testing ........................................................................................................................... 8- 1
D Installation ...................................................................................................................... 8- 2
E Dry-Type Power Transformers ....................................................................................... 8- 2
F Liquid-Immersed Power Transformers ........................................................................... 8- 2
G Further Documentation and Information Required ........................................................ 8- 3
H Neutral Earthing ............................................................................................................. 8- 3
I On-Load Tap Changers ................................................................................................. 8- 3
Section 9 Lighting
A Lighting Systems on Offshore Substations .................................................................... 9- 1
B Siting of Lights ................................................................................................................ 9- 2
C Design of Light Fittings .................................................................................................. 9- 2
D Power Supply to Lighting Systems ................................................................................ 9- 4
Section 10 Cable Network

A General .......................................................................................................................... 10- 1
B High Voltage Cables, Lines and Busbars ...................................................................... 10- 1
C Low Voltage Cables, Lines and Accessories ................................................................. 10- 3
Section 11 Inspections and Tests

A General .......................................................................................................................... 11- 1
B Tests in the Presence of a GL-Inspector ....................................................................... 11- 1
C Tests of Units / Components / Installations ................................................................... 11- 2
D Installation Inspection and Tests at the Building Yard ................................................... 11- 2
E Commissioning ............................................................................................................... 11- 3
Annex A List of Standards & Codes
Annex B Documents for Certification

A General (Low Voltage / High Voltage) ........................................................................... B- 1
B Low Voltage Systems on the Substation ....................................................................... B- 1
C High Voltage Systems on the Substation ...................................................................... B- 2
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A General ....................................................................................................................... 1-1
B Definitions ................................................................................................................... 1-1
C Electric Network Configuration ................................................................................... 1-3
D Environmental Conditions ........................................................................................... 1-3
E Materials and Insulation .............................................................................................. 1-4
F Voltages and Frequencies .......................................................................................... 1-5
G Lightning Protection, Earthing and other Protective Measures .................................. 1-6
A General
Further equipment is required for the transmission of electrical energy that is generated by offshore wind
turbines to the grid connection point at shore. This power engineering equipment usually installed on off-
shore substations or converter platforms, if applicable, form the basic infrastructure for power transmis-
sion to shore and local platform internal energy distribution. It therefore asks for high reliability and safe
operation even during abnormal conditions. Risk of and exposure of human beings to hazards caused by
faults in the electrical system or e.g. cloud discharge shall be reduced to a minimum. As a basis, electro-
technical equipment therefore shall comply with established technical standards and practices stipulated
in publications of the International Electrotechnical Commission IEC.
Where the requirements for electrical equipment, facilities or special applications are not laid down in
these Rules, agreement with GL shall be reached, wherever necessary, regarding the use of other Guide-
lines, regulations and standards. This may include other IEC publications or, e.g., recommendations by
CIGRE. Nevertheless, additional standards of local authorities shall be applied whenever necessary.
Discrepancies or exceptions to the present rules will be assessed and granted by GL in each individual
case. Deviations from the requirements within this Chapter may be approved where there are special
reasons.
GL reserve the right to specify requirements additional to these rules where they are related to new sys-
tems or installations or where they are necessary because of new knowledge or operating experience.
Electrical installations shall be designed so that:
• the maintaining of normal operational and habitable conditions will be ensured without recourse to
the emergency source of electrical power
• the operation of emergency equipment required for safety will be ensured under various defined
emergency conditions
• the safety of personnel and units/installations from electrical hazards will be ensured and risks of in-
jury to human life will be reduced to a minimum
• the integrity of equipment and installations will reach the expected life times in order to secure high
investments
• high reliability is reached of the entire system
B Definitions
B.1 Inter array grid
Internal wind farm cabling conducting the power produced from the wind turbines to the wind farms step-
up transformer at the transformer station
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B.2 Offshore substation

Offshore steel structure possibly divided into different decks containing electrical installations, accommo-
dations, workshops, a heliport, etc.
B.3 LVDS (Low Voltage Distribution System)

Internal substation network that provides energy to operation and control equipment or other consumers
installed on the platform. These systems are operating with rated voltages of more than 50 V up to 1000
V inclusive and with rated frequencies of 50 Hz or 60 Hz or direct current systems where the maximum
instantaneous value of the voltage under rated operating conditions does not exceed 1500 V.
B.4 HVPS (High Voltage Power System)

Electrical system (U > 1 kV) transmitting the electrical energy from the wind turbines to the electricity grid
at shore.
B.5 HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current)

Transmission systems utilized whenever wind farms are located far away from shore in order to limit en-
ergy losses.
B.6 Emergency consumers

Emergency consumers are mandatory consumers which, after breakdown of the main energy supply,
must be fed by an emergency source of power.
B.7 Wet service spaces

Wet service spaces are spaces in which facilities may be exposed to moisture.
B.8 Dry service spaces

Dry service spaces are spaces in which no moisture normally occurs.
B.9 Locked electrical spaces

Locked electrical spaces are spaces which are provided with lockable doors and are intended solely for
the installation of electrical equipment such as switchgear, transformers, etc.
B.10 Type test

A type test is a special test carried out either in the manufacturer’s works or, by agreement, in other suit-
able institutes according to the test conditions given in the respective standard (e.g. IEC) for these tests
B.11 Main lighting

The main lighting system shall be supplied by the main source of electrical power and shall illuminate all
areas normally accessible to and used by personnel.
B.12 Emergency lighting

The emergency lighting system shall be supplied by the emergency source of electrical power and shall
illuminate all spaces necessary for emergency operation of the installation/unit, the escape routes; muster
stations, etc.
B.13 Additional emergency lighting

Additional emergency lighting may be provided on request of the operator for start-up operations and the
illumination should be approximately 30 % of the main lighting.

B.14 Transitional emergency lighting

The transitional emergency lighting is based on an accumulator battery and shall illuminate special areas
for at least ½ hour in the event of failure of the main power supply.
B.15 Fire-resistant cables

Fire-resistant cables are those cables which have properties according to the standard IEC 60331.
B.16 Flame-retardant cables

Flame-retardant cables are those cables which have properties according to the standard IEC 60332.
B.17 Flame-proof coating

Cables with flame-proof coating will resist to flames as is being determined in accordance with a standard
acceptable to GL
B.18 HVAC
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning System
C Electric Network Configuration

C.1 The electrical network configuration shall be presented by in overview diagram issued accord-
ing to the provisions of IEC 61082 including information on cable cross-sectional areas and ratings of the
equipment for both, the LVPS and the HVPS. The design and corresponding assumptions shall be de-
scribed by documents as follows:
General description of the wind farm topology and operation including interconnection and interlocking
schemes
Load flow analysis with indication of static reactive power and voltage levels
Short circuit calculations according to IEC 60909 based on representative faults on high-, medium- and
low voltage levels for determination of required protection devices, their functions and settings
HVPS insulation coordination study according to standard series IEC 60071 giving information on exter-
nal and internal overvoltages representative for a specific wind farm. This includes the event of earth
faults, switching operations, load shedding and atmospheric discharge for instance.
C.2 Worst case operation scenarios and emergency interconnection procedures, which are speci-
fied by the designer or owner, shall be considered for studies mentioned above. This includes, e.g., op-
eration during external grid failure and outages or faults within the inner wind farm grid. The installation of
earthing transformers and other power engineering equipment shall be addressed, too.
C.3 A standards reference list shall be included to the design basis or design specification by the
developer to set out technical basic conditions for the design of electrical installations of the substation.
D Environmental Conditions
D.1 General
The selection, layout and arrangement of all machinery, equipment and appliances shall be such as to
ensure faultless continuous operation under the ambient conditions where applicable. Therefore the
manufacturer/ supplier shall be informed by the Owner/Operator about the expected environmental condi-
tions at the erection site.

D.1.1 The environmental conditions at offshore locations, especially salty air, moisture/wetness,
humidity and sun radiation shall be considered when planning and designing the substation and its instal-
lations.
D.1.2 Design parameters may be determined based on environmental conditions applicable to cer-
tain types of equipment at the location. If not other specified, an ambient temperature range of -25 °C to
+40 °C shall be applied. A relative humidity of up to 95 % and sun radiation of 1000 W/m2 is assumed,
too.
D.1.3 Climatic conditions defined by class 6K2 and biological conditions according to 6B2 shall be
assumed as minimum.
D.1.4 Corrosion protection (c.f. E.2) measures and adequate ventilation shall be ensured for all in-
and outside equipment depending on location. Further guidance and representative conditions can be
found in IEC 60721-3-6.
D.1.5 Major electrical equipment, such as switchgears, power transformers, frequency converters
shall be installed in rooms with controlled atmosphere, wherever possible, as specified in IEC 61892-1. It
shall be clearly identifiable on the rating plate and within the design documentation if such equipment is
intended for outdoor installation or not.
D.1.6 The internals of control and installation rooms shall be protected against the outside air (off-
shore atmosphere).
D.1.7 The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC), applicable filter techniques and
air dryer systems of the offshore substation shall be described by e.g. drawings, functional description,
data sheets.
D.1.8 Calculation of heat dissipation of major machines shall be provided for certification. This refers
to transformers and reactors installed and shall be accompanied by top view drawings. Please also see
Section 8, D.1.
D.1.9 Wave frequency and wave forces can have a significant influence on the structure leading to
acceleration and movement of the platform installations. Using data gained from the structures’ load cal-
culations equipment shall be designed and installed in a way assuring long-term integrity. Assumptions
and maximum permissible vibration / acceleration values of main power equipment will be checked.
D.1.10 The fastening concept of components shall be clarified in this manner, too. Usage of vibration
absorbers shall be considered for at least (if applicable):
• generators
• transformers
• switchgears
• cabinets
• fans
E Materials and Insulation

E.1 General
E.1.1 Material used for electrical machines, cables and apparatus shall be resistant to sea air con-
taining moisture and salt, and to oil vapours. They shall not be hygroscopic and shall generally be flame-
retardant and self-extinguishing.
E.1.2 The evidence of flame-retardation and moisture-resistance of insulation and materials shall be
according to, e.g., IEC 60092-101 or other equivalent standards.

E.1.3 The usage of halogen-free materials is strongly recommended.
E.1.4 Units of standard industrial type may be used in areas not liable to be affected by salty sea air
subject to appropriate proof of suitability.
E.1.5 Materials like stainless steel or UV resistant plastic materials shall be utilized for all sub-
assemblies and equipment installed outside.
E.1.6 Metal parts exposed to harsh and salty environment shall be protected according to the stipu-
lations in E.2 below.
E.2 Corrosion protection
E.2.1 For all metal parts an appropriate coating or metallic coating according to EN ISO 12944 or an
equivalent standard is to be taken.
E.2.2 Parts which are protected according to EN ISO 12944 shall fulfil the following corrosion
classes:
Outside components, fittings, sensors etc. shall be protected against corrosion according to class C5-M
(EN ISO 12944).
Inside surfaces, directly exposed to outside air, shall be protected against corrosion according to class C4
(EN ISO 12944).
Inside surfaces, directly exposed to desalinated and dehumidified air only, shall be protected against cor-
rosion according to class C3 (EN ISO 12944). In that case the functional efficiency of an air conditioning
system has to be shown by appropriate documentation. In case of grid-loss the air conditioning system
has to keep up its operability for a reasonable amount of time.
E.2.3 The protective coating shall fulfil the durability level “high” (>15 yrs) according ISO 12944.
E.2.4 For thermal sprayed metallic coatings Zn99.99 alloy according to ISO 14919 shall be applied.
The application of other alloys than Zn99.99 for thermal sprayed.
F Voltages and Frequencies

F.1 Normal operation conditions (parallel operation with grid)
F.1.1 Provisions and requirements of the respective Grid Operator have to be observed in terms of
grid stability and power quality. Requirements are often described in so-called Grid Codes. If not specified
in detail by other national or international standards or codes the following network conditions shall be
assumed for design purposes:
Table 1.1 AC Voltage
Parameter Tolerance
Nominal value ±10 %
Frequency:
±2 %
Nominal frequency value

Table 1.2 DC Voltage
Parameter Tolerance
Voltage variations (steady state) ±10 %
Periodic voltage variations 5%
Ripple (AC r.m.s. on DC voltage) 10 %
F.1.2 The total harmonic distortion (THD) shall not exceed 8 %.
F.1.3 Under normal operating conditions, during each period of one week, 95 % of the 10 min mean
r.m.s. values of the negative phase sequence component (fundamental) of the supply voltage shall be
within the range 0 % to 2 % of the positive phase sequence component (fundamental) as defined in EN
50160.
F.1.4 The potential difference along cables in the platforms low voltage distribution system, from
supply transformer to consumption, shall not exceed
• 3 % for lighting
• 4 % for other equipment
F.2 Abnormal operation (Emergency state, Island operation)
F.2.1 All electrical equipment shall be so designed that it remains operational during the voltage and
frequency variations occurring in the normal course of operation. The variations indicated in Table 1.3 are
to be taken as a basis.
Table 1.3
Variations
Equipment, components Parameter
continuous transient
Frequency ±5 % ±10 % (5 s)
General
Voltage +6 % - 10 % ±20 % (1,5 s)
Storage batteries and static con-
Voltage ±20 % −
verters
F.2.2 Any larger variations likely because of the differing conditions in distribution systems supplied
by storage batteries and static converters are to be taken into account.
F.2.3 Measures are to be taken to stabilize the input voltage of specific systems, e.g. electronic
equipment which cannot operate satisfactorily within the stated limits.
G Lightning Protection, Earthing and other Protective Measures

G.1 Lightning protection
G.1.1 General
G.1.1.1 The lightning protection system shall comply with the international standard IEC 62305 and
IEC 61892 insofar as this Section does not deviate from the IEC documents. This will be assessed by GL
at a minimum with respect to the requirements given in this Section. Corresponding design documenta-
tion of the platforms Lightning Protection System (LPS) shall be submitted for certification:

• Lightning Protection Zone Concept – Description and Overview Schematic (External LPS)
• Earthing Principle and Equipotential Bonding Plan including dimensions of main earthing and bond-
ing conductors (Internal LPS)
G.1.1.2 National requirements in excess thereof and any additional requirements of the grid operators
shall be observed.
G.1.2 Basic design criteria
G.1.2.1 Lightning protection level (LPL)

The platform and its sub-components shall be protected according to the lightning protection level I (LPL
I). A corresponding set of maximum and minimum lightning current parameters is to be found in IEC
62305-1 “Protection against lightning – Part 1: General principles”, Table 5 and 6.
G.1.2.2 Lightning protection zone (LPZ)

G.1.2.2.1 The offshore substation owner or his subcontractors shall establish a lightning protection zone
concept following the principles given in IEC 62305-4 “Protection against lightning – Part 4: Electrical and
electronic systems within structures”.
The definition of the lightning protection zones is given in IEC 62305-4 “Protection against lightning – Part
4: Electrical and electronic systems within structures”, subclause 4.2. Each lightning protection zone has
the task of reducing the electromagnetic field and the conducted emission disturbances to the stipulated
values. The requirements for choosing the one or the other lightning protection zone depend on the elec-
tromagnetic disturbance immunity of the equipment installed in the higher lightning protection zone. Thus,
the manufacturer shall state the voltage protection level, the discharge current and the impulse current of
each LPZ.
At each zone boundary, it must be ensured that cables and wires crossing the boundary do not conduct
large parts of the lightning current or voltage transients into the lightning protection zone with the higher
number. This is achieved by means of proper bonding and shielding practices and surge protection de-
vices (SPD) of all cables and wires at the zone boundary as described in subsequent sections.
G.1.2.2.2 SPD protection is always required for all incoming cables at the entrance of a lightning protec-
tion zone. The number of required SPDs can be reduced by connecting or extending zones.
G.1.2.2.3 Lightning protection zones can be interconnected via shielded cables (with the shield con-
nected to the bonding system at both ends) or metallic conduits. Also, a lightning protection zone can be
extended with a shielded cable to include external metal sensor housing. The measures for connection
and extension of lightning protection zones taken by the designer shall be stated in the lightning protec-
tion documentation of the offshore substation and additionally. Examples for connected zones or ex-
tended zones can be found in IEC 62305-4 “Protection against lightning – Part 4: Electrical and electronic
systems within structures”, subclause 4.2.
Lightning protection zones LPZ 0A and LPZ 0B typically include the following areas:
• Roof top installations, antennas, cranes and heliports
• the inside of lattice towers
• cable connections outside of the substation on deck, if no shielding measures are provided
Lightning protection zone LPZ 1 typically includes the following areas:
• internals of control-rooms and containers, provided that effective lightning-conducting, shielding and
SPD measures are taken
• the interior of all metal-clad deck equipment, insofar as they are connected in a suitable manner to
an equipotential bonding system and SPD protection
• shielded cables, or cables which are laid in metallic pipes whereby mesh shields or metallic pipes
shall be connected to the equipotential bonding of LPZ 1 zones on both sides
• the external sensors and measurements devices (e.g. meteorological measurement equipment), in-
sofar as these are fitted with lightning cages, appropriate conductors sheathed in a metal shield with
both sides of the shield bonded to the turbine earthing system and SPDs

Lightning protection zone LPZ 2 includes facilities within lightning protection zone LPZ 1, if additional
protection measures have to be taken for a further reduction in the effects of electromagnetic fields and
over-voltages, especially for sensitive electronic systems.
G.1.3 Offshore application and environment
G.1.3.1 Outside equipment (e.g. lightning rods, earthing connection, etc.) shall be of copper or other
corrosion-resistant material and, where necessary, protected against galvanic corrosion. They shall be
protected against damage, where necessary.
G.1.3.2 Connection and fixation elements shall be chosen depending on electrochemical characteris-
tics.
G.1.4 Electrical systems and installations

Electrical systems and installations have to be protected against the effects of lightning current, overvolt-
age and lightning electromagnetic impulses (LEMP). This shall be done by means of equipotential bond-
ing, magnetic and electrical shielding of cables and line routing, coordinated surge protection devices and
earthing.
G.1.5 Surge arresters
G.1.5.1 Surge arresters for low-voltage applications shall comply with

• IEC 61643-1 “Low-voltage surge protective devices – Part 1: Surge protective devices connected to
low-voltage power distribution systems – Requirements and tests“ for power systems
• IEC 61643-21 “Low-voltage surge protective devices- Part 21: Surge protective devices connected
to telecommunications and signalling networks – Performance requirements and testing methods”
for telecommunication and signalling systems.
G.1.5.2 The energy coordination of surge arresters shall be in compliance with IEC 62305-4 “Protec-
tion against lightning – Part 4: Electrical and electronic systems within structures”, Annex C. Proof shall
be given by testing, calculations or selection of coordinated surge arrester families. In each case, a de-
scription of the measures taken and the results achieved or protection levels achieved is required for as-
sessment.
• Surge arresters for high-voltage or medium-voltage applications shall comply with
• IEC 60099-1 “Surge arresters – Part 1: Non-linear resistor type gapped surge arresters for a.c. sys-
tems” for gapped surge arresters
• IEC 60099-4 “Surge arresters – Part 4: Metal-oxide surge arresters without gaps for a.c. systems”
for metal-oxide arresters
G.2 Earthing system
G.2.1 Solid and durable earthing of the platform and its components is required by means of func-
tional and protective purposes. The design of the substations earthing system shall be in accordance with
the requirements stipulated in the applicable parts of standard series IEC 60364, IEC 62305.
G.2.2 For the design and installation of the HVPS reference is made to EN 61936-1 and DIN EN
50522 for voltage levels exceeding 1 kV, too.
G.2.3 Although above mentioned standards generally apply to onshore installations only they shall
be the basis for the earthing system of offshore substations.
G.2.4 The earthing system shall be designed so that sufficient protection against damage due to
lightning flashes is provided. Furthermore, step and touch voltages shall never exceed the limits given in
standards to prevent harmful shock currents that endanger human life.
G.2.5 Required functional and protective earthing shall be determined and elaborated in a detailed
earthing study taking into account worst case operating scenarios and fault currents. Functional earth
conductors shall be selected in consideration of thermal and mechanical stresses during faults e.g. ac-
cording to the principles given in EN 61936-1 and EN 50522 as indicated in G.2.2 above.

G.2.6 The selection of neutral earthing method shall be defined in consideration of the grid structure,
protection concept and desired service security.
G.2.7 Selection of appropriate cross-sectional areas of protective bonding conductors shall be de-
scribed. Connection and marking of bonding conductors shall be specified based on the standards above.
G.2.8 Bolted connections for the fixing of units or components are not considered electrically con-
ductive connections.
G.2.9 The equipotential bonding system shall be assessed on the basis of an equipotential bonding
plan for all major bonding and earthing connections of the substation, showing the general equipotential
bonding system including the locations of the bonding bars within the different lightning protection zones,
the bonding conductors with their cross-sectional areas.
G.2.10 The connection of the earthing conductor to the structure shall be located at a point where it
can easily be checked. Connections of earthing conductors shall be protected against corrosion.
G.2.11 Unintential potential transfer between the earthing system of the platform and others like, e.g.,
the earthing system of the wind turbines shall be considered and avoided.
G.2.12 Containers installed on the platform shall be connected to the structure by minimum 2 addi-
tional earthing conductors evenly distributed.
G.2.13 Each container / installation room shall be equipped with one main earthing terminal inside.
G.2.14 Electrical equipment, cabinets, metal frames and other enclosures shall be starlike connected
to this earthing bar.
G.2.15 Insulated mounted sub-structures, like, e.g., machinery mounted on vibration dampers, or
aluminium superstructures shall be connected to the structure by flexible cables or stranded copper
straps. The connections shall have a high electrical conductivity and shall be corrosion-resistant. The
minimum cross-section is 50 mm2 per conductor.
G.3 Equipotential bonding
G.3.1 All conductive, but in normal operation non-life, components and metal parts shall be provided
with an electrically conductive connection to the structure.
G.3.2 Touchable conductive parts of equipment which are normally not live, but which may present a
dangerous contact voltage in the event of a fault, are to be connected (earthed) to the metal installation
structure. Such equipment may be regarded to be directly connected to the structure, provided that sur-
faces in contact are clean and free from rust, scale or paint when installed and firmly bolted together.
G.3.3 All metal components in the electrical operational compartments shall be included in the equi-
potential bonding. This comprises
• structural metal parts
• metal installations
• internal systems
• external conductive parts and service lines connected to the structure
G.3.4 The bonding conductors shall be kept as short as possible and shall have a cross-sectional
area according to IEC 62305-3 “Protection against lightning - Part 3: Physical damage to structures and
life hazard”, Tables 8 and 9.
G.3.5 Metallic cable sheaths, armouring and shields shall be earthed effectively.
G.3.6 Where possible, incoming cables should enter the lightning protection zone at the same loca-
tion and be connected to the same bonding bar. If incoming cables enter the lightning protection zone at
different locations, each cable shall be connected to a bonding bar and the respective bonding bars of the

zone shall be connected (see IEC 62305-3 “Protection against lightning - Part 3: Physical damage to
structures and life hazard”, subclause 5.4).
G.4 Protective measures
G.4.1 Protection against foreign bodies and water
G.4.1.1 The protection of electrical equipment against foreign bodies and water (IEC 60529) shall be
appropriate to the particular place of installation. The minimum degrees of protection for LVDS and HVPS
are listed in Table 1.4 and Table 1.5.
G.4.1.2 The grade of protection of the equipment shall also be ensured during operation. Covers fitted
at the place of installation are also regarded as a means of protection. Exceptions to the indications in
Table 1.4 and Table 1.5.
G.4.1.3 The minimum degree of protection of the terminal boxes of machines in wet operating spaces
is IP44.
In drain wells and other installation places, where temporary flooding has to be assumed, the minimum
degree of protection required for all electrical equipment is IP 56.
G.4.1.4 If the required degree of protection is not fulfilled by the unit itself, adequate protection has to
be ensured through appropriate structural measures.
G.4.1.5 IP Ratings of equipment

G.4.1.5.1 Low voltage equipment
Table 1.4 IP Ratings of LVPS components
Electrical Communication Heating ap-

Machines Switch- equipment, pliances,
Lighting
Location and Semi- and Con- switches, power heaters and
fittings
conductor trolgear 1 sockets, junction cooking
Converters 1 boxes 1 equipment
dry electrical service
and control rooms,
accommodations,
IP2X 2 IP2X 2 IP2X 2 IP2X 2 IP2X 2
dry machinery
spaces, Store rooms,
pantries
Wet spaces (e.g.
Machinery spaces,
ventilation ducts IP22 IP22 IP44 1 IP22 IP22
(internal), pantries,
store rooms
Machinery spaces
separator and pump
rooms, laundries, IP44 IP44 IP55 1,2 IP44 2 IP34 2
bathrooms and
shower rooms
Pipe tunnels, ventila-
IP55 IP55 IP55 1 IP55 IP55
tion trunks
Open decks IP56 IP56 IP56 - IP56
1 For the degrees of protection for measuring chamber of smoke detectors: IP 42
2 Minimum Protection against electrical shock according to IEC 61892-1

G.4.1.5.2 High voltage equipment
Table 1.5 IP Ratings HCPS components
Rotating Electrical Machinery Power Trans-

Switchgear formers
Machine Terminal Box (dry-type)
Locked electrical service

IP32 IP23 IP44 IP23
spaces 1
Generally accessible opera-

IP44 IP44 IP44 IP44
tional compartments
Open deck - IP56 IP56 IP56
1 Accessible only to trained specialist personnel. Subject to implementation of appropriate safety measures
G.4.2 Protection against electrical shock
G.4.2.1 Protection against direct contact

G.4.2.1.1 Protection against direct contact comprises all the measures taken to protect persons against
the dangers arising from contact with the live parts of electrical facilities. Live parts are conductors and
conductive parts of facilities which in normal operating condition are under voltage.
G.4.2.1.2 Electrical facilities must be so designed that, when they are used properly, persons cannot
touch, or come dangerously close to live parts.
G.4.2.1.3 In locked electrical service spaces, protection against direct contact is already maintained by
the mode of installation. Insulated handrails are to be fitted near live parts, if applicable.
G.4.2.1.4 In systems using safety voltage, protection against direct contact may be dispensed with.
G.4.3 Protection against indirect contact

Electrical facilities shall be made in such a way that persons and service personnel are protected against
dangerous contact voltages in the event of an insulation failure. For this purpose, the construction of the
facilities shall incorporate one of the following protective measures:
• protective earthing
• protective insulation (double insulation)
• electrical facilities are operated at voltages causing no danger even in case of a fault
• in case where special precautions against electric shock will be necessary, the additional usage of
residual current protective devices ≤ 30 mA (not for essential equipment)


A General ....................................................................................................................... 2-1
B Auxiliary Power Generation ........................................................................................ 2-1
C Storage Batteries ........................................................................................................ 2-2
D Electronics .................................................................................................................. 2-6
E Low Voltage Switchboards (up to 1000 V AC resp. 1500 V DC)................................ 2-6
F Appliances for High Voltages (> 1 kV AC, 1.5 kV DC) ............................................... 2-7
A General
Electrical facilities should preferably be installed in locked electrical service rooms. The access doors to
spaces in which high-voltage equipment is installed shall be provided with warning labels and locked dur-
ing operation. The following is permitted for installations, if the degree of protection corresponds to the
location.
B Auxiliary Power Generation

B.1 Auxiliary generators
B.1.1 The auxiliary diesel generators are to be installed in suitable engine rooms. Combustion air
shall be provided independently of the Substation HVAC system from the open deck.
B.1.2 The arrangement must ensure faultless operation of the generator unit under all ambient con-
ditions, particularly with regard to the supply of fresh air and the removal of exhaust air. The aggregates
must be capable of being started, connected, disconnected and monitored from the central control room
in case of a failure of the normal power supply.
B.2 Main low voltage switchboards
B.2.1 The main LV switchboards shall be located, as far as practicable, close to the auxiliary gen-
erator rooms to minimize voltage losses in case supply by the generators is required.
B.2.2 The Main Low Voltage switchboards shall be located in dedicated rooms well ventilated by the
HVAC system to avoid damages by humidity and salt laden air.
B.3 Distribution switchboards

If primary essential equipment is supplied from distribution switchboards, the same conditions regarding
arrangement as required for main low voltage switchboards apply to the distribution switchboards, asso-
ciated transformers, converters and similar equipment.
B.4 Emergency source of electrical power
B.4.1 Arrangement
The room, in which the emergency generator is installed, shall be as far as practicable, accessible from
the open deck and shall be so located that the operation of the emergency generator is not impaired by a
fire or another incident:
• in a room containing the auxiliary generator and/or the main switchboard, or
• in any Category A machinery space.

As far as is practicable, the room containing the emergency source of power, the associated transform-
ers, converters if any, the transitional source of emergency power and the emergency switchboard shall
not adjoin the boundary surfaces of Category A machinery spaces or of those spaces containing the main
power source, the associated transformers, converters if any, or the main switchboard.
If a location adjoining the above mentioned areas or hazardous areas, categorized Zone 1 or Zone 2, is
unavoidable, the boundary surfaces shall be gastight and conform to type A 60.
B.4.2 Deviations of arrangement requirements

The aforementioned arrangement of the emergency generator sets and the provision of an emergency
power supply using an independent emergency power source in accordance with Section 3. May be dis-
pensed with, if
• the auxiliary generators including their switchboards and distributed between at least two rooms, and
• the systems can be operated with complete functional independence of each other, and
• at least one set meets the output, availability and functional criteria laid down for an emergency
generator set in Section 3, and
• the rooms in which the equipment is installed conform to this Section and are so arranged in relation
to each other that a fire or other accident in one of these rooms does not impair power generation in
the other room. In any case, deviations from these requirements have to be approved by GL.
B.4.3 Emergency switchboard
B.4.3.1 The emergency switchboard shall be arranged as near as is practicable to the emergency
source of power and where the emergency source of power is a generator, the emergency switchboard
shall preferably be located in the same space.
B.4.3.2 No accumulator battery fitted in accordance with this requirement for emergency or transitional
power supply shall be installed in the same space as the emergency switchboard, unless appropriate
measures to the satisfaction of GL are taken to extract the gases discharged from the said batteries. An
indicator shall be mounted in a suitable place on the main switchboard or in the machinery control room
to indicate when the batteries constituting either the emergency source of power or the transitional source
of power are being discharged.
B.4.3.3 The emergency switchboard shall be supplied in normal operation from the main switchboard
by an interconnector feeder which shall be adequately protected at the main switchboard against over-
load and short circuit. The arrangement at the emergency switchboard shall be such that the interconnec-
tor feeder is disconnected automatically at the emergency switchboard upon failure of the main power
supply. Where the system is arranged for feedback operation, the interconnector feeder shall also be
protected at the emergency switchboard at least against short circuit.
B.4.3.4 In order to ensure ready availability of emergency supplies, arrangements shall be made
where necessary to disconnect non-emergency circuits automatically from the emergency switchboard to
ensure that power is available automatically to the emergency circuits.
C Storage Batteries
C.1 Installation
C.1.1 Storage batteries are to be installed in such a way that persons cannot be endangered and
equipment cannot be damaged by exhaust gases or electrolytes leaking out.
C.1.2 Storage batteries are to be so installed as to ensure accessibility for changing cells, inspec-
tion, testing, topping-up and cleaning. Storage batteries shall not be installed in the accommodation area
or in store rooms. An exception may be granted for gastight cells, such as those used in emergency
lamps, where charging does not result in the development of harmful gases.

C.1.3 Storage batteries shall not be installed in positions where they are exposed to excessively
high or low temperatures, water spray or other influences liable to impair their serviceability or shorten
their service life.
C.1.4 When installing storage batteries, attention is to be paid to the capacity of the associated
chargers. The charging power is to be calculated as the product of the maximum charger current and the
rated voltage of the storage battery.
Depending on the operating mode, application and duty of the storage battery to be charged, and on the
mode of charging (charger characteristic), and by agreement with GL, the calculation of the charging ca-
pacity need not be based on the maximum current. Where a number of storage batteries are grouped
together, the total sum of charging power is to be taken into account.
C.1.5 Storage batteries with a charging capacity of up to 2 kW may be installed unenclosed in rooms
inside the unit in a well ventilated battery cubicle or container. The unenclosed installation of storage bat-
teries in well ventilated positions in machinery spaces is permitted.
C.1.6 Storage batteries with a charging capacity of more than 2 kW are to be accommodated in an
enclosed cubicle/container or in a room with means of ventilation to the open deck, see also C.3.
C.2 Battery room equipment
C.2.1 Only explosion-protected equipment, like lamps, switches, fan motors and space heating ap-
pliances shall be installed in battery rooms. The following minimum requirements are to be observed:
• explosion group II C
• temperature class T 1
Other electrical equipment is permitted only with the special approval of GL.
C.2.2 Where leakage is possible, the inner walls of battery rooms, boxes and cubicles, and all sup-
ports, troughs, containers and racks, shall be protected against the injurious effects of the electrolyte. In
case of false floors in the battery room, it is strongly recommended to integrate collection arrangement for
lead acid in the battery racks of vented cells or to provide other collecting arrangements. The collecting
arrangements shall be suitably sized for at least 10 % of the total amount of lead acid which is contained
in the storage batteries.
C.3 Ventilation of spaces containing batteries
C.3.1 General requirements

All battery-installations, except for gastight batteries, in rooms, cabinets and containers shall be con-
structed and ventilated in such a way as to prevent the accumulation of ignitable gas mixtures.
Gastight NiCd-, NiMH- or Li- batteries need not be ventilated. Relevant battery data sheets shall be sub-
mitted for verification by GL.
C.3.2 Batteries installed in switchboards with charging power up to 0.2 kW

Lead batteries with a charging power up to 0.2 kW may be installed in switchboards without separation to
switchgear and without any additional ventilation, if:
• the batteries are valve regulated (VRLA), provided with solid electrolyte, and
• the battery cases are not closed completely (IP 2X is suitable), and
• the charger is regulated automatically by an IU-controller with a maximum continuous charging volt-
age of 2.3 V/cell and the rated power of the charger is limited to 0.2 kW
C.3.3 Ventilated spaces with battery charging power up to 2 kW

Batteries may be installed in ventilated cabinets and containers arranged in ventilated spaces (except
rooms mentioned in C.1.2).
The unenclosed installation (IP 12) in well ventilated positions in machinery spaces is permitted.

Otherwise batteries shall be installed in ventilated battery cabinets or containers.

The charging power for automatic IU-charging shall be calculated as follows:
P : U·I
I : 8 · K/100 for Pb-batteries
I : 16 · K/100 for NiCd-batteries
P : charging power [W]

U : rated battery voltage [V]
I : charging current [A]
K : battery capacity [Ah]
The gassing voltage shall not be exceeded. If several battery sets would be used, the sum of charging
power has to be calculated.
The room free air volume shall be calculated depending on battery size as follows:
V : 2.5 · Q
Q : f · 0.25 · I · n
V : room free air volume [m3]

Q : air quantity [m3/h]
n . number of battery- cells in series connection
f : 0.03 for lead batteries with solid electrolyte
f : 0.11 for batteries with fluid electrolyte
If several battery sets would be installed in one room, the sum of air quantity shall be calculated.
Where the room volume or the ventilation is not sufficient, enclosed battery cabinets or containers with
natural ventilation into suitable rooms or areas shall be used.
The air ducts for natural ventilation shall have a cross-section as follows, assuming an air speed of 0.5
m/s:
A : 5.6 · Q
A : cross-section [cm2]
The required minimum cross-sections of ventilation ducts are shown in Table 2.1
Small air ducts and dimensions of air inlet and outlet openings shall be calculated based on lower air
speed.
C.3.4 Ventilated rooms with battery charging power more than 2 kW

Batteries exceeding charging power of 2 kW shall be installed in closed cabinets, containers or battery
rooms forced ventilated to the open deck area. Lead batteries up to 3 kW may be ventilated by natural
means.
Battery rooms shall be arranged according to C.2.
C.3.5 Ventilation requirements

Ventilation inlet and outlet openings shall be so arranged to ensure that fresh air flows over the surface of
the storage battery.
The air inlet openings shall be arranged below and air outlet openings shall be arranged above.
If batteries are installed in several floors, the free distance between them shall be at least 50 mm.

In battery rooms, devices which obstruct the free passage of air, e.g. fire dampers and safety screens,
shall not be mounted in the ventilation inlet and outlet ducts of battery rooms. If necessary, weather tight
closures shall be carried out otherwise.
Air ducts for natural ventilation shall lead to the open deck directly.
Openings shall be at least 0.9 m above the cupboard/ boxes. The inclination of air ducts shall not exceed
45° from vertical.
C.3.6 Forced ventilation

If natural ventilation is not sufficient or required cross- sections of ducts according to Table 2.1 are too
big, forced ventilation shall be provided.
The air quantity Q shall be calculated according to clause C.3.3 or, as a minimum, to another applicable
national or international Standard, e.g. EN 50272-2.
The air speed in the ventilation ducts shall not exceed 4 m/s.
Where storage batteries are charged automatically, with automatic start of the fan at the beginning of the
charging, arrangements shall be made for the ventilation to continue for at least 1 h after completion of
charging.
Table 2.1 Cross-section of ventilation ducts
Calculation based on battery charging power (automatic IU-charging)

Cross-section [cm2]
Battery charging power Lead battery Lead battery Nickel-Cadmium battery
[W] solid electrolyte fluid electrolyte
VLRA
< 500 40 60 80
500 < 1000 60 80 120
1000 < 1500 80 120 180
1500 < 2000 80 160 240
2000 < 3000 80 240 forced ventilation
> 3000 forced ventilation
Wherever possible, forced ventilation exhaust fans shall be used.

The fan motors shall be either a certified safe type with a degree of protection IIC T1 and resistant to
electrolyte or, preferably, located outside of the endangered area. Fans are to be of non-sparking con-
struction.
The ventilation systems shall be independent of the ventilation systems serving other rooms. Air ducts for
forced ventilation shall be resistant to electrolyte and shall lead to the open deck.
A ventilation calculation for the battery room shall be submitted for assessment. In case boost charging of
the storage batteries is possible, the boost charging current shall be applied for the ventilation calculation.
C.4 Emergency power supply

The location in which storage batteries for the emergency power supply are installed shall fulfil the same
conditions as required for the installation of the emergency generator, see B.4.
C.5 Installation of sealed batteries in switchboard rooms on Offshore Substations

The installation of sealed batteries in switchboard and control rooms on shall be discussed and agreed
with GL. Reference is made to EN 50272-2.

Note
The calculation of ventilation and safety distance based on EN 50272-2 has to be carried out with a safety
factor 10 and the total number of cells independently of being wired in parallel or in series.
C.6 Batteries for starting of diesel generator engines
C.6.1 Batteries for starting of diesel generator engines shall be installed near the engine, so as to
minimize the voltage drop in the power lines.
C.6.2 For the rating of batteries reference is made to GL Rules for Machinery and Utility Systems
(IV-7-4), Section 2, E.
C.7 Caution labels

The doors or the covers of battery rooms, cupboards or boxes shall be fitted with appropriate caution
labels prohibiting the exposure of open flames and smoking in, or close to, these spaces.
D Electronics
D.1 Power electronics equipment and computerized equipment are to be installed in readily ac-
cessible and adequately ventilated dry spaces.
D.2 The heat developed in the equipment is to be carried off by suitable means. The amount of
dissipated heat is to be specified by the manufacturer. Where electronic equipment is installed in engine
rooms or other spaces with enhanced danger of pollution and corrosion, air filters are to be provided
where necessary.
E Low Voltage Switchboards (up to 1000 V AC resp. 1500 V DC)

E.1 Main switchboards
E.1.1 The main switchboard and one auxiliary generator shall be placed in the same fire zone so
that, as far as practicable, the power supply may be affected only by fire or other incidents in the same
fire zone.
The installation of the switchboard in a control room in the same fire section or in a room separated by a
partition bulkhead with sufficient access opening is not to be considered as separating the switchboard
from the generators.
The main switchboard shall be located as close as practicable to the auxiliary generator(s), within the
same machinery space and the same vertical and horizontal A 60 fire boundaries.
E.1.2 Pipework and air ducts are to be run in such a way that the switchgear is not endangered in
the event of leaks. If the installation of these pipes and ducts close to the switchboard is unavoidable, the
pipes shall not have any flanged or screwed connections in this area.
E.1.3 The heat generated in the switchgear shall be adequately removed.
E.1.4 The walkway in front of the main switchboard shall be at least 0.9 m wide. An ample view shall
be provided for the operation of the board.
Where free-standing panels are required to be accessible from behind for operation and maintenance, a
walkway at least 0.6 m wide is to be provided. The distance may be reduced to 0.5 m in the area of rein-
forcements and frames.

E.1.5 The floor in front of, and where necessary behind, main switchboards with an operating volt-
age of more than 50 V shall be provided with an insulating covering, or insulating gratings or mats are to
be supplied.
E.1.6 The operational space behind open switchboards shall take the form of a locked electrical ser-
vice room. A label notifying this fact shall be fitted.
E.2 Emergency switchboards

The emergency switchboard shall be arranged close to the emergency generator and/or the emergency
battery. The requirements of B shall be observed. The place of installation shall satisfy the same condi-
tions as apply to the installation of the emergency generator. The installation of the emergency switch-
board is subject to the same conditions as those stated in E.1.2, E.1.3, E.1.5 and E.1.6 for the main
switchboard.
F Appliances for High Voltages (> 1 kV AC, 1.5 kV DC)

F.1 Arrangement
F.1.1 High-voltage facilities should preferably be installed in locked electrical service rooms. The
following variants are permitted for installation, if the degree of protection corresponds to the location.
F.1.2 Where equipment with a degree of protection lower than that stated in Section 1, G.4 is in-
stalled, the access doors are to be locked in such a way that they can be opened only when the equip-
ment has been switched off and earthed.
F.1.3 The degrees of protection stated in Section 1, G.4 is to be adhered to for equipment in service
rooms.
F.1.4 Is during operation the protection against accidental arcing at the place of installation or in
their vicinity not ensured, the hazarded areas are to be blocked off by appropriate means and to be
marked with warning labels. The continuous stay of personal in the hazarded areas shall be avoided.
Therefore control panels, devices for vocal communication, etc. may not be installed in this area.
F.1.5 Insulation distances for high-voltage DC equipment shall be adhered to according to require-
ments as per applicable national and international rules and standards, e.g. IEC. During operation of the
HVDC equipment the environmental conditions according to the manufacturer requirements shall be ob-
served and the HVAC serving these spaces shall be suitably dimensioned and adjusted. If necessary,
separate dehumidifiers shall be installed in these locations to maintain the air humidity within the accept-
able limits.
F.2 Access doors to service rooms

The access doors to spaces in which high-voltage equipment is installed shall be provided with warning
labels.
F.3 Switchgear
F.3.1 Pressure release
F.3.1.1 If the gas pressure resulting from internal arcs within the switchboard is to be vented via pres-
sure- release flaps, the installation space shall be as specified by the switchgear manufacturer and shall
have an adequate volume. Suitable measures shall be taken to ensure that the overpressure occurring
within the space is limited to physiologically acceptable limits. The overpressure shall be taken into ac-
count for the structural design of the room. It is recommended to lead the accidental-arc gases by ducts
of sufficient cross-section out of the place of operation.
F.3.1.2 If the switchboard is designed so that the gas pressure caused by accidental arcs is also, or
only, released downwards, the floor shall be constructed so that it can withstand this pressure. Care must

be taken to ensure that sufficient volumes of space are available below the floor for the expansion of the
accidental-arc gases. Combustible materials and low-voltage cables are not admissible in the endan-
gered area.
F.3.2 SF6 switchgear
F.3.2.1 SF6 switchgear shall only be installed in spaces which are adequately ventilated. It shall be
ensured that SF6 is prevented from flowing down to lower spaces.
Note
It must be taken into consideration that the released gases in case of accidental arcing have toxic and
corrosive effects.
The SF6 cylinders shall be stored in a separate space with its own venting arrangements. Measures shall
be taken to ensure that, in the event of leakage, no gas can flow unnoticed into any lower spaces.
F.3.3 Insulation of locations in front of/behind switchgear
F.3.3.1 For locations in front of switchboards, or if accessible from the rear behind the switchboard,
insulation shall be provided.
F.3.3.2 The insulation shall be done by an approved insulating mat.

Note
An insulation mat with a thickness of 2.5 mm can be considered as sufficient.
F.3.3.3 It shall be impossible to touch the front of the switchboard or other places of operation from
outside of this insulating mat.
F.4 Power transformers
F.4.1 Transformers shall be installed in adequately ventilated compartments, accessible only to

authorized personnel. The one exception to this rule is that on fixed offshore installations air-cooled trans-
formers provided with means of protection against accidental contact with live parts need not be installed
in special compartments; compare IEC 61892-6, 7.2.1.
F.4.2 Beneath oil filled transformers special precautions have to be taken to collect spilled oil in case
of leakage. If the insulation oil is liable to burn, reliable facilities for extinguishing the burning oil shall be
provided. Spilled oil shall not be drained into the unit’s water drainage system.
F.4.3 A fire detector and a suitable fire extinguisher system shall be installed in the vicinity of the
transformer. If a water spray system is provided as the fire extinguishing system, it must be ensured that
the transformer is switched off before the water spray system is activated, or that the transformer is de-
signed with the corresponding degree of protection.
F.4.4 The installation of transformers in stores and accommodation areas is not permitted.
F.4.5 The location in which transformers for the emergency power supply are installed shall satisfy
the same conditions as apply to the installation of the emergency generator.
F.5 Safety equipment

At least the following safety equipment has to be provided for high-voltage facilities:
• a voltage detector for the rated voltage of the equipment
• a sufficient number of earthing cables, together with insulated fitting tools,
• an insulating floor cover appropriate to the test voltage of the equipment
• a sufficient number of warning labels bearing the words "Do not operate switch" (alternatively in the
local language)

F.6 Marking
All parts of high voltage installations are to be fitted with permanent warning labels drawing attention to
the voltage level and the danger.


A General ....................................................................................................................... 3-1
A General
A.1 Auxiliary power supply equipment
A.1.1 Auxiliary power supply equipment for the provision of electrical energy of the offshore substa-
tion mainly required to facilitate “survival” of the offshore substation in the case of non-availability of ex-
ternal power supply, i.e. in case of
• non-availability of power generated by the Wind Turbines
• interruption of power supply via submarine cables from shore
A.1.2 The auxiliary power (e.g. provided by generators or UPS/batteries) is required for supply of
essential/emergency consumers on the platform and possibly temporary supply of the Wind Turbines via
the Inter Array Grid between substation and Wind Turbines.
A.1.3 All equipment which may occasionally be taken out of service and is not located in heated and
ventilated areas are to be equipped with a standstill heater. This heater should switch on automatically
when the equipment is switched off.
A.2 Power balance
A.2.1 Where, in three-phase systems, AC-consumers are connected between two outer conductors
or one outer conductor and the neutral, the consumers are to be distributed in such a way that, under
normal operating conditions, the loads on the individual outer conductors do not differ from each other by
more than 15 %.
A.2.2 Load factors of equipment shall be applied to calculate the required ratings for transformers
and inverters.
A.3 Main power supply
A.3.1 Design
A.3.1.1 Every offshore substation is to be provided with a main source of electrical power of sufficient
capacity to supply the auxiliary systems on the platform, i.e. all relevant low voltage consumers.
A.3.1.2 The main source of electrical power on a substation will be normally provided by the grid con-
nection supplying the medium voltage busbars and the associated auxiliary transformers feeding the main
low voltage switchgear.
A.3.1.3 Additionally to the power supply by the grid connection, at least one auxiliary diesel generator
set shall be installed on the substation.
A.3.1.4 The alternator of auxiliary diesel generator sets shall comply with the Standard IEC 60034.
A.3.1.5 The capacity of the generating set(s) mentioned in A.3.1.1 shall be such that, if the wind farm
is shut down or power supply from the onshore grid is not available, it is sufficient to supply those ser-
vices necessary to maintain normal operating conditions in respect of the functioning and safety of the
substation and the wind turbines of the wind farm (supply of essential systems via the inter array cables).

A.3.1.6 The provision of at least a second auxiliary diesel generator of the same rating is strongly rec-
ommended to cover the above services during a loss of the grid connection, if one auxiliary generator is
not available due to maintenance or repair.
A.3.1.7 Where transformers, storage batteries, static converters, etc. constitute an essential part of the
main electrical supply system, the availability of the entire supply system stipulated in A.3.1.1 shall be
ensured should any one system part fail.
In individual cases exemptions may be granted in consultation with the competent national authorities,
e.g. in case a supply with main power can be provided by the main power system of a mother platform in
the close vicinity and connected by a bridge.
A.3.1.8 The emergency source of electrical power may be used for a short period for starting-up the
auxiliary generator set, provided that its capacity is at the same time sufficient to supply the necessary
emergency power consumers.
A.3.2 Rating of auxiliary generators
A.3.2.1 Apparent power

The apparent power of three-phase generators shall be such that no inadmissible voltage drops occur in
the installation’s mains due to the normal starting currents of motors. The start-up of the motor with the
greatest starting current shall not give rise to a voltage drop causing other consumers to malfunction.
Where a number of generators operate in parallel, this condition must continue to be met when the larg-
est generator is not in operation.
A.3.2.2 Waveform
A.3.2.2.1 The waveform of the line-to-line no-load voltage shall be as close as possible to sinusoidal.
The deviation from a sinusoidal fundamental shall at no time exceed 5 % relative to the peak value of the
fundamental. The RMS values of the phase voltages shall not differ from each other by more than 0.5 %
under balanced load conditions.
A.3.2.2.2 If the star points of generators running in parallel are earthed, the waveforms of the phase
voltages should coincide.
A.3.3 Exciter equipment

Generators and their exciters are to be rated in such a way that
• the generator can be loaded at 150 % of its rated current for minimum 15 s (If applied protection de-
vices and settings are faster and more sensitive this requirement is repealed).
• the equipment is short-circuit-proof even having regard to the time lag of the generator circuit break-
ers necessary to the selectivity of the system
Please also refer to Section 4, B.2.2 and B.2.3
A.3.4 Regulating conditions

Under balanced load conditions, three-phase generators and their exciters are required to meet the fol-
lowing conditions.
A.3.4.1 Steady regulating conditions

With the generator running at rated speed, the voltage shall not deviate from the rated value by more than
± 2.5 % from no-load up to the rated output and at the rated power factor after the transient reactions
have ceased.
A.3.4.2 Transient regulating conditions

With the generator running at rated speed and rated voltage, the voltage shall neither fall below 85 % nor
exceed 120 % of the rated value when symmetrical loads of specified current and power factor are sud-
denly applied or removed. The voltage shall regain its rated value ± 3 % in 1.5 seconds.
If no particular requirements are specified for the load changes, the above conditions are to be satisfied
when the generator, running idle and excited to its rated voltage, is suddenly loaded to 60 % of its rated

current with a power factor of < 0.4 (lagging), and, after steady-state operation has been achieved, the
load is suddenly switched off again, see also IEC 61892-3.
A.3.5 Steady short-circuit current

With a terminal short circuit on three phases, the steady short-circuit current shall not be less than three
times the rated current. The generator and its exciter must be capable of withstanding the steady short-
circuit current for two seconds without damage, see also IEC 61892-3.
A.3.6 Load sharing during parallel operation

Where generators of the same output are operated in parallel, the reactive load of each machine shall not
differ from its proportionate share by more than 10 % of its rated reactive power when the active load is
shared equally.
In the case of generators running parallel with different ratings, the deviation from the proportionate share
shall not exceed the lesser of the following values, assuming proportionately equal sharing of the active
load:
• 10 % of the rated reactive power of the largest machine
• 25 % of the rated reactive power of the smallest machine
A.3.7 Design and equipment of prime movers
A.3.7.1 The design and equipment of the prime movers of generators and starters are to conform to
requirements as per GL Rules for Machinery and Utility Systems (IV-7-4), Section 2.
A.3.7.2 Each prime mover of generators supplying the substation’s main switchboard shall be
equipped with a speed controller enabling synchronization to be effected in a sufficiently short time.
A.3.7.3 Electric/electronic governors
A.3.7.4 If electric/electronic governors are fitted, these as well as the control elements of the engine
are to be approved by GL.
A.3.7.5 The engine shall not assume a dangerous operating condition in the event of faults in the con-
trol system.
A.3.7.6 Where engines have electric starters, the governor may be supplied from the battery allocated
to the engine.
Where engines are not started electrically, each governor including the control element is to be provided
with a separate battery and charger.
The capacity of each battery shall be sufficient to enable the governor and control elements to operate for
at least 60 minutes without recharging.
Each charger shall be capable of supplying, for a short period, the likely maximum current of the system.
A.3.7.7 When an engine is taken out of service, the supply to its governor is to be automatically dis-
connected.
A.3.7.8 If the battery voltage falls below the minimum permissible value, this shall trip a visual and
audible alarm to be transmitted to the permanently manned control station on the substation or onshore.
A.3.8 Parallel operation
A.3.8.1 The speed characteristics of prime movers shall be linear over the entire output range.
The governing characteristics of prime movers of units of the same output operating in parallel must en-
sure that, over the range from 20 % to 100 % of the total active power, the share of each machine does
not deviate from its proportionate share by more than 15 % of its rated active power.
A.3.8.2 Where the units are differently rated, the deviation from the proportionate share within the
stated load range shall not exceed the lesser of the following values:
• 15 % of the rated active power of the largest machine

• 25 % of the rated active power of the smallest machine
A.3.9 Cyclic irregularity

The permissible cyclic irregularity is to be agreed between the manufacturers of the prime movers and the
generators. The following points have to be ensured:
• faultless parallel operation of three-phase generators
• Load variations shall not give rise to fluctuations in active power output exceeding 10 % of the rated
output of the machine concerned.
A.4 Emergency power supply
A.4.1 General requirements
A.4.1.1 An independent emergency source of electrical power is to be provided on all offshore substa-
tions. The emergency source of electrical power shall be able to take over the supply of the emergency
consumers, should the main power supply fail. Deviations to this clause shall be approved by GL in each
individual case.
The alternator of emergency diesel generator sets shall comply with the Standard IEC 60034.
A.4.1.2 The electrical power available from the emergency source shall be sufficient to supply all
those services which are essential for safety in an emergency, due regard being paid to such services as
may have to be operated simultaneously.
A.4.1.3 Provided that suitable measures are taken for safeguarding independent emergency operation
under all circumstances, the emergency generator may be used exceptionally and for short periods to
supply non-emergency circuits.
A.4.1.4 For all equipment forming part of the emergency source of electrical power provision shall be
made for periodic functional tests, including especially testing of the automatic switching and starting de-
vices. Such testing shall be possible without interference with other aspects of the offshore substation’s
operation.
A.4.1.5 For the rating and control of emergency generators, the same principles apply as for the auxil-
iary generators in accordance with A.3.2 to A.3.5, but with the following exception. Voltage deviations of ±
3.5 % under steady conditions and ± 4 % under transient conditions after 5 s are acceptable.
A.4.1.6 The alternator of emergency diesel generator sets shall comply with the Standard IEC 60034.
A.4.1.7 Primary and secondary essential equipment shall be preferably supplied directly from the main
and emergency switchboard in accordance with the Rules. Supply via distribution panels is only permissi-
ble, if an equivalent safety of supply is guaranteed.
A.4.1.8 Emergency consumers shall be supplied directly from the emergency switchboard and via sub
distribution panels, to which only consumers in the relevant fire zone are connected.
A.4.1.9 In normal operation, the emergency switchboard shall be supplied by an interconnection

feeder from the main switchboard. The feeder is to be protected against over current and short circuits at
the main switchboard and the feeder must be automatically disconnected in the emergency switchboard if
the supply from the main switchboard fails.
A.4.2 Scope of the emergency power supply
A.4.2.1 Services to be supplied

A.4.2.1.1 The emergency source of electrical power shall be capable, having regard to starting currents
and the transitory nature of certain loads, of supplying simultaneously at least the services listed under
A.4.2.1.2 to A.4.2.1.6 below, for the periods specified, if they depend upon an electrical source for their
operation.
A.4.2.1.2 For a period of 18 hours, emergency lighting

• at all lifesaving appliances launching stations on deck and along the sides of the installation as
stipulated in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and in the IMO MODU Code
• in all service and accommodation alleyways, on stairways, at exits, in personnel lift cars and in lift
shafts
• in machinery spaces and main generating stations including their control positions
• in the control stations of the substation, the machinery control rooms, the emergency remote shut-
down stations and at each main and emergency switchboard
• at all escapes
• at all stowage positions for firemen’s outfits
• in the CO2 room, inert gas bottles storage areas, the galleys, the day rooms, messes and hospital
• at the emergency fire pump, the sprinkler pump and at the starting position of their motors
• on the helicopter landing area, including the boundary lighting and the wind sock lighting
A.4.2.1.3 For a period of 18 hours, communications and alarms, etc.
Unless these items of equipment can be independently supplied during these 18 hours by their own
emergency storage battery
• all internal signalling and communications equipment (e.g. Public Address System) required in an
emergency
• maritime and aeronautical radio systems for communication to ships and helicopters, where required
by national authorities or by SOLAS Convention
• fire detection and fire alarm system
• gas detection and gas alarm system, as far as applicable on the substation
• intermittent operation of the alarm sirens, the manually operated fire alarms and all the internal sig-
nals required in an emergency, e.g. general alarm, CO2 alarm
• the power to operate all the electrically driven valves of process units, which have to be closed or
opened in an emergency and all emergency remote shut-downs.
A.4.2.1.4 For a period of 18 hours, pumps and other equipment
• one of the required fire pumps, if dependent upon the emergency generator for its source of power
• the automatic sprinkler pump
• the auxiliary equipment for the emergency diesel unit
• permanently installed diver’s equipment, where this depends on the installation’s electrical power
supply
A.4.2.1.5 For 96 hours, signals for the marking/identification of the substation structure
• sound signal transmitters, i.e. fog horns (as far as required by the local authorities) and
• all signal lights, which are necessary of the identification of offshore structures (see also the "Rec-
ommendations on the Marking of Man-Made Offshore Structures", International Association of Light-
house Authorities, IALA O-139), as required by the local authorities.
• radio signals for identification of the substation (i.e. Automatic Identification System – AIS), as re-
quired by the local authorities.
The above signaling devices for the identification of the offshore substation are to be provided with their
own emergency battery, rated to provide a supply for the above time, unless some other period is speci-
fied by national regulations.
A.4.2.1.6 For half an hour, emergency systems
• emergency arrangements to bring the personnel lift cars to the nearest exit point for escape pur-
pose. Where more than one personnel lift car is provided, these may be brought to the escape sta-
tion in succession in an emergency.
• emergency shut-down system(s)

A.4.2.2 Design requirements

A.4.2.2.1 The emergency source of electrical power may be either a generator combined with an accu-
mulator battery as transitional source of power according to A.4.2.2.3 or solely an accumulator battery.
A.4.2.2.2 Generator set
Where the emergency source of electrical power is a generator set, it shall be driven by a suitable prime
mover with its own independent fuel supply and an independent cooling system. The set shall start auto-
matically if the main source of electrical power fails, and shall automatically take over the supply to the
emergency consumers unless a transitional source of emergency power in accordance with A.4.2.2.3 is
available.
The emergency power supply shall be connected not later than 45 seconds after the failure of the main
power supply.
A.4.2.2.3 Transitional source of emergency power
The transitional source of emergency electrical power shall be an accumulator battery which, in the event
of failure of the main power supply, automatically and immediately supplies the consumers listed below
until the emergency generator set described in A.4.2.2.2 is in operation and connected. Its capacity shall
be sufficient to supply the consumers without intermediate recharging for the period specified below. Dur-
ing that time the battery voltage shall remain within ±12 % of the rated voltage.
Where their operation depends upon an electrical source, the following services are to be supplied for a
period of half an hour:
• the emergency lighting, lamps and lights specified in A.4.2.1.2.
• all the services required by A.4.2.1.3 unless such services have an independent supply for the pre-
scribed period from their own emergency accumulator batteries.
A.4.2.2.4 Accumulator battery
Where the emergency source of electrical power is an accumulator battery, it shall be capable, in the
event of failure of the main source of electrical power, of automatically and immediately supplying power
to the consumers listed in A.4.2.1 for the stipulated period without intermediate recharging. During this
period the battery voltage shall remain within ± 12 % of the rated voltage.
A.4.3 Emergency consumers for the protection of important equipment

Where necessary, the rating of the emergency source of electrical power shall take account of other con-
sumers which are needed to protect important equipment in case of a failure of the main electrical power
supply. This category may include, for example, the emergency lubricating oil supply. The measures to be
taken are to be agreed with GL in each individual case.
A.4.4 Starting arrangements for emergency generators
A.4.4.1 The requirements for the starting of emergency generators are defined in GL Rules for
Machinery and Utility Systems (IV-7-4), Section 2.
A.4.4.2 All of the starting, charging and energy storing devices shall be located in an emergency gen-
erator room and these devices shall not be used for any purpose other than the operation of the emer-
gency generator set. This does not preclude the supply to the air receiver of the emergency generator set
from the main or auxiliary compressed air system through a non-return valve fitted in the emergency gen-
erator room.

Section 4 Power Distribution and Electrical Protec-

tion
A Power Distribution....................................................................................................... 4-1
B Electrical Protective Devices ...................................................................................... 4-1
C Emergency Generators............................................................................................... 4-4
D Storage Batteries ........................................................................................................ 4-4
E Power Electronics (incl. UPS Rectifiers)..................................................................... 4-4
A Power Distribution
If not otherwise specified in this rule, arrangement and design of supply systems, lighting, control and
monitoring systems, navigation and radio equipment shall generally comply with the stipulations set out in
standard series IEC 61892.
B Electrical Protective Devices

B.1 Auxiliary generators
B.1.1 General
The auxiliary generators supply the relevant main low voltage switchboards, either individually or in paral-
lel. One ore more auxiliary generators shall be available to supply all necessary consumers on the sub-
station including those required for normal operation, e.g. in case the auxiliary transformers or the grid
connection of the substation is not available.
B.1.2 Independent operation

Independent operation means that each generator supplies a busbar system assigned to it. Where this
method is used, it shall be possible to connect the consumers or consumer groups to at least two different
busbar systems or generators by means of selector switches.
B.1.3 Parallel operation

In parallel operation, the generators supply a common busbar system of the main switchboard, to which
the consumer feeders are connected.
B.2 Protection equipment
B.2.1 General
B.2.1.1 Generators shall be at least protected against damage due to short circuits and overloads.
B.2.1.2 Protection equipment for generators is to be arranged within the switchgear field of the gen-
erator to be protected and supplied from the generator side.
B.2.1.3 Short-circuit protection and overload protection equipment is to be provided in every non-
earthed conductor.

B.2.2 Short-circuit protection
B.2.2.1 The short-circuit protection is to be set at an overcurrent of more than 50 %, but at a value
less than the steady short-circuit current. It shall have a short time delay compatible with the selectivity of
the system (up to about 500 ms).
B.2.2.2 The short circuit protection shall not be disabled by undervoltage.
B.2.2.3 Generators with a rated output of 1500 kVA or more are to be equipped with a suitable protec-
tive device which in the event of a short circuit inside the generator or in the cable between generator and
circuit-breaker opens the breaker and de-energises the generator.
Examples of suitable protective equipment are differential protection or generator-neutral-point monitor-
ing.
B.2.3 Overload protection
B.2.3.1 The overload protection, which is to be set to a value between 10 % and 50 % overcurrent,
shall trip the generator circuit breaker with a time delay of not more than 2 minutes. A setting above 50 %
overcurrent may be allowed, where this is required by the working conditions and is compatible with the
generator characteristics. The overload protection shall not impair immediate reconnection of the genera-
tor.
B.2.3.2 The overload protection shall trip the generator circuit breaker in order to prevent damages of
the equipment. Protection settings and functions shall be chosen based on proposed working conditions
and generator characteristics. The overload protection shall not impair immediate reconnection of the
generator.
As substation machinery spaces are normally unattended, the automatic disconnection of non-essential
consumers is mandatory. Any load shedding and respective warnings of the power management system
shall be indicated in the control station onshore or offshore, depending on the manning of the substation.
B.2.4 Reverse-power protection
B.2.4.1 Generators from 50 kVA output upwards provided for parallel operation are to be protected by
a delayed reverse-power release.
B.2.4.2 The protection shall be selected and set in accordance with the characteristics of the prime
mover. Setting guidance values are for diesel generators 8 % to 15 % of the rated output delayed from 2
to 5 seconds. The setting should, if possible be at 50 % of the tractive power of the prime mover. Should
the operating voltages decrease to 50 % of the rated value, the reverse-power protection shall remain
effective within the limits stated.
B.2.5 Undervoltage protection

Generator circuit-breakers are to be provided with under-voltage protection. In the event of a decrease of
the voltage to 70 % - 35 % of the rated voltage, the generator circuit-breaker shall open automatically.
Undervoltage releases shall have a short-time delay adapted to the short circuit protection.
B.2.6 Overvoltage protection

The mains shall be protected against overvoltage. The voltage shall be limited to 130 % UN and max. 5 s,
even in the case of failure of the voltage regulators.
B.2.7 Underfrequency protection

In the event of a continuous frequency drop of more than 10 %, the non-essential and, where necessary,
the secondary essential equipment shall be tripped within 5 to 10 s. If this fails to establish normal operat-
ing condition, the supplying generators shall be disconnected from the power supply so that the stand-by
unit can cut in.
B.2.8 Testing of generator protection equipment
B.2.8.1 Type approval testing of protection devices as per B.2.2 through B.2.7 is recommended, but if
this is not suitable, components may be approved by GL case by case.

B.2.8.2 Type tests shall be carried out in the presence of a representative of GL either in the manufac-
turer's works or, by agreement, in suitable institutions.
B.2.8.3 GL type tests are to be carried out according to GL Rules and Guidelines, VI – Additional
Rules and Guidelines, Part 7 – Guidelines for the Performance of Type Approvals and defined standards.
B.2.8.4 Type tested protection devices shall be used within the scope of valid Construction Rules only.
The suitability for the subject application shall be ensured.
B.2.8.5 GL Head Office will decide case by case if tests carried out by other recognized institutions
may be considered as equivalent to GL type tests.
B.3 Switchgear
B.3.1 General
B.3.1.1 Each non-earthed conductor shall be switched and shall be protected against short circuit and
overload.
B.3.1.2 When tripped due to overcurrent, generator circuit breakers shall be ready for immediate re-
connection. The use of thermal bi-metallic release for generators used to supply essential consumers is
not permitted.
B.3.1.3 Generator circuit breakers shall be provided with a reclosing inhibitor which prevents auto-
matic reclosure after tripping due to a short circuit.
B.3.2 Single operation

The following devices are to be provided:
• a three-pole circuit breaker with time-delayed overcurrent- and short-time-delayed short-circuit re-
lease
• for generators with a rated output below 50 kVA, fuses and load switches or fuses with contactors
are also permitted
All generator contactors that may be used are to be provided with a dropout delay (up to approx. 500 ms)
and shall be rated for double of the generator current.
B.3.3 Parallel operation

The following devices are to be provided:
• for each generator, a three-pole circuit breaker with delayed overcurrent- and short-time-delayed
short-circuit and under voltage release
• In the case of generators intended for parallel operation, the generator switch is to be provided with
undervoltage protection which prevents closing of the switch if the generator is dead.
B.4 Synchronizing equipment

Generators intended for parallel operation must be equipped with a synchronizer in accordance with B.4.1
and B.4.2.
B.4.1 Equipment to prevent faulty synchronizations

Generators intended for parallel operation shall be provided with automatic synchronizing equipment.
Instead of automatic equipment, manual synchronizing equipment combined with a check synchronizer
may be provided.
Check synchronizers for the protection of an alternator against parallel connection at an unacceptable
phase angle shall allow parallel switching only up to an angular deviation (electrical) of 45° and up to a
frequency difference of 1 Hz.
The check synchronizer shall ensure that parallel switching is impossible if the supply or measuring volt-
age fails or in the event of failure of any component.

B.4.2 Manual synchronization

Manual synchronization (e.g. synchronizing dark method installed within sight of the generator-switch
actuating position) shall be possible if the appliances listed in B.4.1 fail.
C Emergency Generators
Emergency generators supply the emergency switchboards and the connected emergency consumers.
C.1 Protective equipment and switchgear

Generator protection shall consist of at least:
• short circuit protection
• overload protection
• under voltage protection
However it is permissible for the overload protection not to disconnect the generator automatically but
instead to trigger an optical and acoustical warning signal at the emergency switchboard and at the main
switchboard.
C.2 Overload shedding

If the emergency generator is overloaded, consumers temporarily supplied from the emergency
switchboard which are not emergency consumers shall be automatically disconnected in order to safe-
guard the supply to the emergency circuits.
D Storage Batteries
Storage batteries are to be provided with overload and short-circuit protection nearby where they are
installed.
Exceptions are made for batteries for preheating and starting of internal combustion engines, but their
cabling shall be made short-circuit proof.
E Power Electronics (incl. UPS Rectifiers)

E.1 Power electronics facilities are to be protected against overload and short circuits.
E.2 UPS inverters intended for the supply of emergency consumers shall be designed for continu-
ous operation.


A General ....................................................................................................................... 5-1
B Short-Circuit ................................................................................................................ 5-1
C Design ......................................................................................................................... 5-3
D Selection of Switchgear .............................................................................................. 5-5
E Choice of Electrical Protection Equipment.................................................................. 5-7
F Conductor and Busbar Carriers .................................................................................. 5-9
G Measuring Instruments and Instrument transformers............................................... 5-12
H Testing of LV Switchboards and Switchgear ............................................................ 5-13
A General
A.1 The requirements of this Section apply to low-voltage switchgear with operating voltages of up
to 1000 V AC or 1500 V DC.
A.2 Electrical installations are to be protected against damage due to overloading and short-circuit.
A.3 The thermal and electro-dynamic stresses due to overcurrents shall not cause damage to
parts of the system during the response time of protective devices or during the total operating time of
switches.
A.4 Overcurrent protective devices are to be selected on the basis of the following criteria:
• overload current
• short-circuit current
• reclosing capability
A.5 Regarding design, construction and testing of low-voltage switchgear assemblies, attention is
drawn to publication IEC 61892-3.
For further notes see Section 4.
B Short-Circuit
B.1 Short-circuit currents
B.1.1 Short-circuit current calculations are to be carried out in accordance with a standard accepted
by GL, e.g. IEC 61363-1.
B.1.2 When calculating the maximum short-circuit currents to be expected, the following installations
are to be taken into account:
• all generators which operate in parallel to provide the maximum power demand
• all motors whose simultaneous operation must be expected
All data used for the short-circuit current calculation are to be submitted.
The following is to be determined:
• the peak short-circuit current ip

• the initial symmetrical short-circuit current I”k
B.1.3 Calculation
Roughly, the short-circuit currents at the main busbar can be calculated as follows:
B.1.3.1 Initial symmetrical short-circuit current of a generator
I ''kG = IrG ⋅ 100 / xd ''

I"kG : initial symmetrical short-circuit current of a generator
IrG : rated current of the generator
xd" : subtransient reactance of the generator [%]
B.1.3.2 Initial symmetrical short-circuit current of a motor
I ''kM = 6 ⋅ IrM
I"kM : initial symmetrical short-circuit current of a motor
IrM : rated current of the motor
B.1.3.3 The total initial symmetrical short-circuit current can be calculated by summation of the indi-
vidual component currents.
B.1.3.4 The value of the peak short-circuit current ip can be calculated by multiplying the total initial
symmetrical short-circuit current I”k by the factor 2.3.
B.1.4 The short-circuit calculation shall consider all possible short circuits necessary for an evalua-
tion of the system. The following types of short circuits are to be investigated in all cases:
• generator short circuits
• short circuits on main busbars
• short circuits on the busbars of emergency switchboards and main distribution panels
B.1.5 The short-circuit current calculation shall be accompanied by a list of the proposed switching
devices and their characteristic data.
The rated making capacity, the rated breaking capacity and the power factor of the switching appliances
shall be stated.
B.1.6 GL reserve the right also to request proof of the minimum short-circuit currents to be expected.
B.2 Heat losses (heat balance)

Switchgear assemblies shall be so designed that under operational conditions the permissible tempera-
ture rise limits in accordance with IEC 61892-3 are not exceeded.
GL reserve the right to request proof of the heat balance.
B.3 Dynamic and thermal loading

Switchgear assemblies shall be so designed that no permanent damage to busbars, busbar mountings
and wiring is caused by the dynamic and thermal loading arising in the event of a short circuit.
GL reserve the right to request proof of the dynamic and thermal stability in the event of a short circuit.

C Design
C.1 General
C.1.1 All instruments and operating devices shall be permanently identified by name plates. Wher-
ever possible, text should be used. Fuse current ratings are to be stated. The setpoints of adjustable pro-
tective devices are to be marked. The rated operating parameters of all measuring instruments shall be
marked in red either on the scales or on plates fixed nearby.
C.1.2 All screwed joints and connections shall be secured against self-acting loosening.
C.1.3 All conductors shall be vibration proof and are to be kept away from sharp edges. Conductors
leading to equipment mounted in doors are to be laid tension-free.
C.1.4 All components including their connections have to be accessible for the purposes of mainte-
nance, repair and replacement.
C.1.5 Large doors in switchboards shall be fitted with arresting devices.
C.1.6 Electrical components mounted in the doors of switchboards, e.g. switchgear, measuring de-
vices and fuses for voltages over 50 V, shall be safeguarded against accidental contact. Such doors are
to be earthed.
C.1.7 Where fuses are fitted above switchgear or bare connecting wire or leads, measures are to be
taken to ensure that falling parts (e.g. fuse cartridges) cannot come into contact with live components.
C.1.8 Operating devices and fuses must be safely accessible.
C.1.9 For circuit breakers and load-switches, the minimum distances above the arc chutes specified
by the manufacturers are to be maintained.
C.1.10 Knife-type fuses for supply circuits are only permitted if they can be safely withdrawn and in-
serted.
C.1.11 Where access is required inside cubicles during operation, protection must be provided to
prevent accidental contact with live parts.
C.2 Main switchboards
C.2.1 Observation of the measuring and indicating devices and operation of the switchgear must be
possible from the front side of the switchboard with the doors closed.
C.2.2 If the total installed power of all generators exceeds 3 MW, the generator panels shall be
separated from each other by arc-resistant partitions. Busbar penetrations shall be flame-retardant and
self-extinguishing.
C.2.3 Where the main source of the electrical power is supplying essential equipment, the main
busbar shall be capable to be subdivided into at least two parts which shall normally be connected by
circuit breakers or easily to open disconnecting links. As far as is practicable, the connection of genera-
tors and duplicated consumers shall be equally divided between the main busbar sections.
C.2.4 The consumers may for instance, be grouped as follows (see also Fig. 5.1):
Consumers 1 Consumers 2
Seawater pump 1 Seawater pump 2
Cooling water pump 1 Cooling water pump 2
Main lighting 1 Main lighting 2
etc. etc.

C.2.5 Synchronizing equipment for generators
See Section 4, B.4
C.2.6 Measuring and monitoring devices for generators
C.2.6.1 Where circuit breakers are used, the following shall be provided:
• 1 indicating light: circuit breaker connected
• 1 indicating light: circuit breaker released
C.2.6.2 The following is required for each three-phase alternator:

• 1 voltmeter which can, if necessary, be switched to the other alternators
• 1 ampmeter, switchable to all phases
• 1 frequency meter which can, if necessary, be switched to the other alternators
Disconnection
Consumers Gen. Gen. Consumers

1 1 2 2
Fig. 5.1 Example for arrangement of a main busbar connection and division of consumers
C.2.6.3 The following circuits shall be supplied from the generator side, and shall be separately protected
against short circuits:
• generator protection devices, and an undervoltage trip of the generator circuit breaker
• measuring instruments
• indicating lights
• diesel engine speed-adjusting equipment
• motor drive for circuit breaker
C.2.7 Switchgear and fuses for equipment
C.2.7.1 Each supply line run from the main switchboard shall be provided with a circuit breaker with
over-current and short-circuit protection, or with a fuse for each non-earthed conductor and an all-pole
switch or with a contactor with control switch. Where fuses and switches are used, the sequence busbar-
fuse-switch is to be used. The specified sequence may be changed where motor switches of utilization
category AC-23 A are used as load switches, provided that the switches are weld proof in the event of a
short circuit, see B.3
The rated peak withstand current (dynamic limiting current) of switches shall be greater than the cut-off
current of the associated fuse in the event of a short circuit.
C.2.8 Measuring instruments

The main switchboard and the main distribution panel have to be fitted with ammeters for major consum-
ers, unless these are already mounted on the consumers themselves. It is permissible for one ammeter to
be switched over to a number of circuits.
C.3 Emergency switchboards
C.3.1 The requirements for main switchboards apply in analogous manner to emergency
switchboards.

C.3.2 Control and supply circuits of the emergency power plant must be so switched and protected
that interruptions or short circuits caused by fire or another event,
• in a space housing the main (auxiliary) generators and/or the main switchboards, or
• in a category A machinery space
does not impair the operating ability of the emergency source of electrical power. Where necessary, the
emergency switchboard has to be fitted with isolating switches.
C.4 Distribution panels
C.4.1 Distribution panels are to be equipped with the necessary devices for the protection of the
connected circuits and for the supply of consumers, see Section 4.
C.4.2 Feeder circuits with fuses must be switched with load switches. In the case of feeder circuits
with fuses up to 63 A, load switches may be dispensed with, if each connected equipment can be discon-
nected by a switch fitted nearby.
C.5 Motor starters
C.5.1 Each motor shall be provided with its own switching device.
C.5.2 It shall be indicated whether the motor is switched on.
C.5.3 If the switching device does not disconnect all of the live conductors, additional measures are
to be taken for the protection of personnel.
C.5.4 Motors are to be provided with starters if:

• currents or voltage drops higher than those permissible for the system are liable to occur, if con-
nected directly
• this is necessary for the start-up of the motor or the driven machine
• this is required by the design of the generators
C.5.5 Starting shall only be possible from the zero position of the starter.
D Selection of Switchgear
D.1 General
D.1.1 Every non-earthed conductor is to be switched and to be protected against short circuit and
overload.
D.1.2 Switchgear shall conform to applicable IEC publications, or to another standard approved by
GL.
D.1.3 Switchgear shall be selected with regard to its rated currents, its rated voltage, its thermal and
dynamic stability and its switching capacity. The following must be observed:
D.1.3.1 The rated short-circuit making capacity shall be not less than the calculated peak short-circuit
current ip at the place of installation.
D.1.3.2 The rated service short-circuit breaking capacity shall be not less than the AC component of
the short-circuit Iac(t) at the moment
t = T/2

D.2 Circuit breakers
D.2.1 Circuit breakers are distinguished according to the utilization categories of publication IEC
60947-2 into:
D.2.1.1 Utilization category A

These are circuit breakers not designed for selectivity under short-circuit conditions with respect to other
short-circuit protective devices in series on the load side, e.g. without intentional short-time delay for se-
lectivity under short-circuit conditions, and therefore do not need proof of the rated short-time withstand
current (Icw).
Application examples are consumer circuit breakers and distribution feeders.
D.2.1.2 Utilization category B

These are circuit breakers which are designed for selectivity under short-circuit conditions with respect to
other short-circuit protective devices in series on the load side, e.g. with intentional short-time delay for
selectivity under short-circuit conditions. Such circuit breakers must have proof of the rated short-time
with-stand current (Icw). Utilization category B circuit breakers must be able to withstand the short-circuit
current to be expected where they are fitted, for the duration of at least 500 ms.
An application example are generator circuit breakers.
D.2.2 Additional requirements for generator circuit breakers:

• Following tripping due to an overcurrent, the breaker must immediately be ready for reclosing. For
this reason thermal tripping devices are not permitted.
• A reclosing block must prevent automatic remaking of the breaker onto a still persisting short circuit
following tripping due to a short circuit.
D.2.3 Drives of circuit breakers:

• Power-driven circuit-breakers shall be equipped with an additional emergency drive for hand-
operation.
• Mechanical actuating elements on circuit breakers for generators and essential circuits shall be so
connected to the circuit-breakers that they cannot be lost.
• Circuit-breakers with a making capacity exceeding 10 kA shall be equipped with a drive which per-
forms the closing operation independently of the actuating force and speed (by snap action).
• If the conditions for the closing operation are not fulfilled (e.g. undervoltage release not energized),
switching-on shall not cause the contact pieces to come into contact.
D.3 Load switches
D.3.1 The current rating of load switches must be at least equal to that of the fuse protecting the
circuit, and they must have a making/breaking capacity in accordance with AC-22 A or DC-22 A (IEC
60947-3).
D.3.2 The sequence busbar - fuse - switch should be maintained.
D.3.3 If the sequence busbar - switch - fuse is chosen, the making/breaking capacity shall match
category AC-23 A or DC-23 A (IEC 60947-3), and attention is to be paid to increased insulation quality of
the switching unit.
D.4 Fuses
D.4.1 Fuse links shall have an enclosed fusion space. They shall be made of ceramic or other mate-
rial recognized by GL as equivalent.
D.4.2 Fuses may be used for overload protection only up to a rating of 315 A. Exceptions to this rule
are subject to approval by GL.

E Choice of Electrical Protection Equipment

E.1 General
Protective devices shall be coordinated with each other in such a way that, in the event of a fault, the
defective circuit is disconnected and the power supply to essential equipment is maintained.
E.1.1 Short-circuit protection

Short-circuit protection devices shall be independent of energy supplied from other circuits than those to
be protected. In the event of a short circuit, the total break-down of the supply voltage shall be expected.
Short-circuit protection devices for generators shall be equipped with reclosing inhibitors, and shall be
delayed for selective disconnection.
E.1.2 Over current protection

The operation of overcurrent relays shall not be influenced by the ambient temperature. Thermal bimetal-
lic relays shall be temperature compensated. Overcurrent relays for motor protection shall be adjustable
and provided with a reclosing inhibitor.
E.1.3 Undervoltage protection

Undervoltage relays shall cause the circuit-breaker to open if the voltage drops down to defined relative
values of the rated voltage.
E.1.4 Shunt trips

Shunt trips shall ensure the disconnection of the circuit- breakers even if the voltage drops to 85 % of the
rated voltage.
E.1.5 Electronic protection devices

Electronic protection devices shall remain operative at their maximum permissible load at an ambient
temperature of 55 °C.
E.1.6 Reverse power protection

The reverse power protection device shall respond to the active power regardless of the power factor,
and shall operate only in the event of reverse power. The response value and pick up time shall be ad-
justable. The reverse power protection device shall remain operative despite a voltage drop to 60 % of
the rated value.
E.1.7 Phase failure protection

Protection devices for detection of a single-phase failure in three-phase circuits shall operate instantane-
ously.
Bimetallic relays with differential release do not constitute phase failure protection devices in the opinion
of these Rules.
E.2 Dimensioning of Short-circuit protection equipment
E.2.1 The rated short-circuit breaking capacity Icn of a switching device shall not be less than the
maximum current to be broken in the event of a short circuit at the place where the protective device is
fitted.
E.2.2 The rated short-circuit making capacity Icm of a circuit breaker shall not be less than the maxi-
mum instantaneous asymmetric short-circuit current at the place where it is fitted.
E.2.3 The peak short-circuit strength of a switching unit and its components shall correspond to the
maximum short-circuit current which can arise at the place where it is fitted.
E.2.4 Circuit breakers making and breaking capacity shall be tested in accordance with publication
IEC 60947-2. Other standards may be recognized. Circuit breakers whose making/breaking capacities

are less than the anticipated maximum short-circuit currents are to be protected by back-up fuses of suffi-
cient breaking capacity.
E.3 Selective arrangement
E.3.1 The short-circuit protection of essential equipment shall be selective and has to ensure that
only the switching device nearest to the fault initiates disconnection of the defective circuit. For this pur-
pose:
• the tripping time of protective devices connected in series shall be carefully co-ordinated
• the switching devices being capable of carrying the short-circuit current during the total break time of
the device plus the time lag required for selectivity
• Exceptions may be permitted in the case of circuits feeding redundant plants or non-essential
equipment if selectivity relative to the generator switch is maintained.
E.4 Over current protection devices

The current-time characteristics of over current protection devices shall be compatible with the system
components to be protected, and with the requirements of selectivity.
E.5 Allocation of short-circuit and over current protection devices
E.5.1 Short-circuit protection is required for every non-earthed conductor.
E.5.2 Over current protection is required for at least one conductor in insulated DC and single-phase
AC circuits.
Over current protection is required for at least two phases in insulated, load-balanced three-phase cir-
cuits.
E.5.3 Over current protection is required for each non-earthed conductor in earthed systems. The
continuity of earthed conductors shall not be interrupted by short-circuit or over current protection de-
vices, except in the case of multipole disconnection devices which simultaneously interrupt all the con-
ductors, whether earthed or not.
E.5.4 Determined for the over current protection of the entire circuit (switchgear, switchboard wiring,
supply cables and equipment) according to regulations is the rated current In of the connected equipment
or in the case of grouped supply cables the evaluated total rated current.
E.6 Motor protection
E.6.1 Motors with a power rating of more than 1 kW shall be individually protected against overloads
and short circuits.
E.6.2 The protective devices shall be compatible with the mode of operation of the motors and have
to provide reliable protection against thermal overload.
E.6.3 If the current/time characteristic of the overload protection device does not correspond to the
starting conditions of a motor, provision may be made to suppress operation of the device during the
start-up period. The short-circuit protection shall remain operative.
E.6.4 The switchgear of motors whose simultaneous restarting on restoration of the supply voltage
might endanger operation shall be provided with undervoltage protection which prevents automatic re-
start.
E.6.5 Where necessary, the start-up of motors which are required to restart automatically following
restoration of the voltage is to be staggered in such a way that the starting currents do not overload the
installation/unit's mains.

E.7 Control circuits
E.7.1 The control circuits of essential systems have to be independent of other control circuits.
E.7.2 Common control circuits for groups of consumers are permitted only when this is required by
functional relationships.
E.7.3 Control-power transformers have to be protected against short circuit and overload. Fuses
may be used on the secondary side as overload protection. Where the rated current on the secondary
side is less than 2 A, the overload protection may be omitted.
E.7.4 Switching elements shall not be located in the earthed part (N) of an earthed control circuit.
E.8 Measuring and signaling circuits

Current loops for signaling and measuring equipment and also indication lamps shall be protected against
short circuit and overload in each non-earthed conductor.
Excepted are indicating lamps with operating voltage ≤ 24 V or if measures are taken to prevent influence
on control and power circuits in case of short circuit.
E.9 Exciter circuits

Exciter circuits and similar circuits whose failure could endanger operation may be protected only against
short circuit.
E.10 Monitoring of insulation resistance
E.10.1 Each non-earthed primary or secondary system serving power, heating or lighting installations
shall be fitted with equipment which monitors the insulation resistance relative to the installation’s main
structure and gives an optical and audible alarm if the insulation resistance value is abnormally low.
E.10.2 The devices for insulation monitoring of installation’s mains shall continuously monitor the
insulation resistance of the network, and shall release an alarm should the insulation resistance of the
system fall below 50 Ohms per volt of the operating voltage.
E.10.3 The measuring current shall not exceed 30 mA in the event of a dead short circuit to earth.
Insulation monitoring devices may be dispensed with in the case of secondary systems such as control
circuits.
E.11 Testing of protection devices for generators and large consumers

Electronic or computerized protection devices for generators and large consumers shall be so designed
that the function of the protection equipment can be tested on the substation.
Especially attention shall be given to:
• arrangements to readily identification of the last final settings, in the event of possible change
• facilities and instructions for testing the settings and functions
F Conductor and Busbar Carriers

F.1 Busbars, bare or painted
F.1.1 General
F.1.1.1 Busbars shall be made of copper or copper-plated aluminium, or corrosion-resistant alumin-

ium.

The dimensions of main busbars and section busbars made of copper shall conform to Table 5.1 as a
function of their permitted load.
The temperature rise shall not exceed 45 K and shall not have any harmful effect on adjacent compo-
nents.
F.1.1.2 Parallel-run busbars of the same phase are to be installed not less than one bar thickness
apart. Earth conductors, neutral conductors of three-phase mains and equalization lines between com-
pound-wound generators shall have at least half the cross section of the phase conductor.
F.1.2 Connections to equipment

Cross sections of connection bars and wires to equipment shall be of such size as to avoid thermal over-
loading of the equipment at full load as well as in the event of a short circuit.
F.2 Busbar carriers

Busbars are to be mounted in such a way that they withstand the stresses caused by short circuit cur-
rents and maintain the required clearance and creepage distances relative to other voltage-carrying or
earthed components.
F.3 Clearance and creepage distances
F.3.1 The values indicated in Table 5.2 apply to main busbars and the associated non-fused con-
nection bars of main, emergency and control switchboards.
• F.3.2 Lower values than those indicated in Table 5.2 may be approved by GL, if the following
conditions are met:
• switchgear of standard design
• quality system approved by GL
• reduction of pollution by appropriate installation and degree of protection
• type-tested switchboard system
F.4 Insulated wires
F.4.1 Insulated wires shall be of the stranded type, and shall satisfy the requirements for cables and
wires set out in Section 10. The cross section of the conductor shall be at least sufficient for the rated
current of the connected equipment. Conductors are to be selected in accordance with Table 5.3.
F.4.2 Non-fused conductors leading from the main busbar to fuses and circuit breakers shall be as
short as possible, but not longer than 1 m. These wires shall not be run and mounted together with other
wires.
F.4.3 Control wires for essential equipment shall be run and protected in such a way that they can-
not be damaged by short circuit arcs if at all possible.

Table 5.1 Permissible loading of copper main busbars of rectangular cross-section at 45 °C

ambient temperature (45 K temperature rise)
Maximum permissible loading [A] with 50/60 Hz

Width x Thickness painted (matt-black) bare
Number of bars Number of bars
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
[mm]        
15 x 3 230 390 470 − 200 350 445 −
20 x 3 290 485 560 − 250 430 535 −
20 x 5 395 690 900 − 340 620 855 −
20 x 10 615 1145 1635 − 530 1020 1460 −
25 x 3 355 580 650 − 300 510 615 −
25 x 5 475 820 1040 − 405 725 985 −
30 x 3 415 670 735 − 350 590 700 −
30 x 5 555 940 1170 − 470 830 1110 −
30 x 10 835 1485 2070 − 710 1310 1835 −
40 x 5 710 1180 1410 − 595 1035 1350 −
40 x 10 1050 1820 2480 3195 885 1600 2195 2825
50 x 5 860 1410 1645 2490 720 1230 1560 2380
50 x 10 1260 2130 2875 3655 1055 1870 2530 3220
60 x 5 1020 1645 1870 2860 850 1425 1785 2740
60 x 10 1460 2430 3235 4075 1220 2130 2850 3595
80 x 5 1320 2080 2265 3505 1095 1795 2170 3370
80 x 10 1860 2985 3930 4870 1535 2615 3460 4275
100 x 10 2240 3530 4610 5615 1845 3075 4040 4935
120 x 10 2615 4060 5290 6360 2155 3545 4635 5580
Note
The maximum permissible loading applies to switchboards not closed at the rear. In the case of fully enclosed switchboards
adequate ventilation is to be ensured, or the loading values stated are to be reduced.
Table 5.2 Clearance and creepage distances
Minimum creepage
Rated service voltage Minimum clearance
distance
[V] (AC/DC) [mm]
[mm]
≤ 125 10 12
> 125 ≤ 250 15 20
> 250 ≤ 690 20 25
> 690 25 35

Table 5.3 Current rating of wires in switchgear
Nominal cross-section Bunched, exposed or in conduits Wires run singly,

of conductor – total at least one conductor
cross-section in the Several power circuits One power circuit diameter apart
case of conductors together together with its
associated measuring
connected in parallel Circuits of all kinds
and control wires
Current Current Current

[mm2] [A] [A] [A]
1 9 12 15
1.5 12 15 19
2.5 16 20 25
4 20 27 34
6 26 35 42
10 36 48 58
16 48 65 78
25 66 86 102
35 82 107 125
50 104 133 157
70 130 164 194
95 157 198 231
120 186 231 272
Note
The current ratings shown applies to conductors with a maximum permissible operating temperature [T] on the conductor of
70 °C and an ambient temperature of 45 °C. For conductors with a maximum permissible operating temperature [T] deviating
from 70 °C, the current rating is to be determined by applying the correction factor [F].
T 60 °C 65 °C 70 °C 75 °C 80 °C 85 °C
F 0.77 0.89 1.00 1.10 1.18 1.26
G Measuring Instruments and Instrument transformers

G.1 Measuring instruments
G.1.1 The measuring error of switchboard instruments shall not exceed 1.5 % of the full scale value.
Instruments with directional response are to be used for DC generators and batteries.
G.1.2 Voltmeters must have a scale range of at least 120 % of the rated voltage, and ammeters a
scale range of at least 130 % of the maximum anticipated continuous service current. Ammeters are to be
so rated that they are not damaged by motor starting currents.
G.1.3 The scale range of power meters shall be at least 120 % of the rated power. For generators
connected in parallel, the scale range must also register at least 15 % reverse power. Where power me-
ters have only a single current path, all generators shall be measured in the same phase. If the total value
of all consumers connected to a single phase exceeds 10 % of the power of the smallest generator, the
power meters have to be equipped with multiple movements in order to record the unbalanced load on
the outer conductors. Conductors and Busbar Carriers
G.1.4 Frequency meters shall be capable of registering deviation of ± 5 Hz from the rated frequency.

G.2 Current and voltage transformers
G.2.1 Current and voltage transformers shall conform to IEC 60044. Accuracy class 1 is defined as a
minimum requirement.
G.2.2 Current transformers for protective devices shall not have a current error of more than 10 % in
the expected over-current range.
H Testing of LV Switchboards and Switchgear

H.1 Type tests
Type tests shall generally be carried out for following devices and components:
• circuit-breakers, load switches, disconnect switches and fuses for direct connection to the main bus-
bars or unfused distribution busbars of main and emergency switchboards
• standardized switchgear units manufactured in series with reduced clearance- and creepage dis-
tances, see F.3.2.
H.2 Tests in manufacturer's works
H.2.1 All switchboards are to be tested in the manufacturer's works.
H.2.2 The following installations are subject to testing in the presence of a GL Inspector:
• main switchboards
• emergency switchboards
• distribution switchboards with connected power ≥ 500 kW
GL reserves the right to stipulate a factory test for other switchboards.
H.2.3 Scope of test
H.2.3.1 Visual inspection

Checking of manufacture against the approved drawings. The components and materials used shall con-
form to this rule.
H.2.3.2 Functional test

Testing of functional performance on the basis of a test schedule and of the approved drawings, as far as
it is feasible.
H.2.3.3 High-voltage test

The test voltage specified in Table 5.4 and Table 5.5 is to be applied between the conductors, and be-
tween the conductors and the switchboard frame. The duration of the test is one minute in each case.
Measuring instruments and other auxiliary apparatus may be disconnected during the test.
• Test voltage for main circuits:
• For main circuits the test has to be carried out with the values according to Table 5.4.
• Test voltage for auxiliary circuits:
• For auxiliary circuits the test has to be carried out with the values according to Table 5.5.
• Test voltage for type-approved switchgear:
For the verification of the dielectric properties of type-approved switchgear the test voltage for routine
tests may be reduced to 85 % of the values according to Tables 5.4 and 5.5.

Table 5.4 Test voltage for main circuits
Rated insulation voltage

Ui Test voltage (AC)
(rms) [V]
DC and AC [V]
Ui 60 1000
60 < Ui 300 2000
300 < Ui 690 2500
690 < Ui 800 3000
800 < Ui 1000 3500
1000 < Ui 1500 1 3500
1 only for DC voltage
Table 5.5 Test voltage for auxiliary circuits
Rated insulation voltage

Ui Test voltage (AC)
(rms) [V]
DC and AC [V]
Ui 12 250
12 < Ui 60 500
Ui <60 2 Ui + 1000, but at
least 1500
H.2.3.4 Insulation resistance measurement

The voltage test is to be followed by measurement of the resistance of insulation. The insulation resis-
tance measurement is to be performed at a DC voltage of at least 500 V.
In large installations, the switchboard may be divided into a number of test sections for this purpose. The
insulation resistance of each section shall be at least 1 MOhm.
H.3 Tests at the Building Yard

The following items shall be tested under observance of GL forms F 217 and F 218 or equivalent report
forms:
• Accessibility for operation and maintenance.
• Protection against the ingress of water and oil from ducts and pipes in the vicinity of the
switchboards, and sufficient ventilation.
• Equipment of main and emergency switchboards with insulated handrails, gratings and insulating
floor coverings.
• Correct settings and operation of protection devices and interlocks.
• Independence manual operation of generating sets from common external voltage and automation
systems (manual operation means local start/ stop and speed setting as well as voltage control, pro-
tection devices and synchronizing from switch-board).
GL reserves the right to demand the proof of selective arrangement of the power supply system.


A General ....................................................................................................................... 6-1
A General
A.1 Design
A.1.1 Combustible materials and low-voltage cables are not admissible in the endangered area.
A.1.2 High and medium voltage switchboards shall have metal clad enclosures which are fully parti-
tioned and closed on all sides.
A.1.3 All parts of high voltage installations are to be fitted with permanent warning labels drawing
attention to the voltage level and the danger.
A.2 Testing
A.2.1 A functional test of the interlocking conditions, protective functions, synchronization and the
various operating modes shall be performed. A test schedule shall be submitted for assessment.
A.2.2 Medium-voltage switchgear shall comply with international standard series IEC 62271. This
shall be verified through manufacturer declaration and type test records containing at least the following
tests:
• dielectric tests
• short-time withstand current and peak withstand current tests
• internal fault
A.2.3 The test reports will be assessed with regard to test conditions and the results of these tests
will be assessed; these shall comply with the requirements of IEC 62271.
A.2.4 Information on the nameplate shall be in accordance with IEC 62271. A corresponding name-
plate shall be placed at each switchgear.
A.3 Protective measures and further tests
A.3.1 A risk of personal injury through electrical shock and internal arcs shall be minimized inde-
pendently of the necessary protection against foreign matter and water.
A.3.2 With reference to IEC 62271, only IAC-qualified medium-voltage switchgear shall be installed
in offshore substations.
A.3.3 The test current applied shall be as high as the rated short-time withstand current of the re-
spective type of switchgear used.
A.3.4 Installation of the switchgear in accordance with the IAC accessibility type of the switchgear
used.
A.3.4.1 An exception can be made for switchgear installed in separate incombustible rooms within the
substation that can be locked. Access to the room shall be granted only when the wind turbine is switched
off then.

A.3.4.2 If the gas pressure resulting from internal arcs within the switchboard is to be vented via pres-
sure-release flaps, the installation space shall be as specified by the switchgear manufacturer and shall
have an adequate volume.
A.3.4.3 Suitable measures shall be taken to ensure that the overpressure occurring within the space is
limited to physiologically acceptable limits. This overpressure shall be taken into account for the structural
design of the installation space. Appropriate design documentation shall be provided for certification
A.3.4.4 If the switchgear is designed so that the gas pressure caused by internal arcs is also, or only,
released downwards, the floor shall be constructed so that it can withstand this pressure. Care shall be
taken to ensure that sufficient volumes of space are available below the floor for the expansion of the
internal-arc gases. Suitable drawings and commissioning manuals shall be provided for verification of an
appropriate installation.
A.3.4.5 SF6 switchgear shall only be installed in spaces which are adequately ventilated. For offshore
application this might conflict with overall sealing of the room or container for corrosion protection pur-
poses. The design and specific solutions shall general exclude the risk of hazards to service personal and
will therefore be assessed in each individual case.
Note
It shall be taken into account that SF6 is heavier than air and the gases escaping in the event of internal
arcing have toxic and corrosive effects.


A General ....................................................................................................................... 7-1
B Installation of HVDC Equipment ................................................................................. 7-2
C Cooling ........................................................................................................................ 7-3
D Control and Monitoring System .................................................................................. 7-3
E Power Transformers and Reactors on Converter Platforms....................................... 7-3
A General
For HVDC converter substations dedicated equipment is required for the conversion from AC to DC volt-
age or vice versa.
HVDC substations are connected to one or more offshore wind farms via HVAC submarine cable (typi-
cally 155 kV, 3 phase AC in German waters) on the one side. In the other direction, these substations are
connected to the onshore grid via a pair of DC submarine cables (bi-polar system). Depending on the
transmitted electrical power and the distance to the onshore converter substation, the DC voltage may
vary between typically ±150 kV DC and ± 450 kV.
This Section covers the specific equipment which is installed on HVDC converter substations, which are
mainly:
• the high power semiconductors for power conversion (e.g. IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors)
or Thyristors)
• the HVDC converter transformers,
• Smoothing Reactors
• Filter circuits on AC and DC side, including reactors, capacitors and resistors as components
A.1 Design
A.1.1 Rating and type of the components shall be selected according to the respective design re-
quirements and depending on the power conversion rating. Documentation on main circuit design, power
transformer design / tapping, AC filter design and the protection system shall be submitted for evaluation.
A.1.2 Where possible, the above components shall be made of flame-retardant material, e.g. air-
insulated smoothing reactors shall be preferred, rather than oil-insulated types. In case combustible mate-
rials are part of the equipment, e.g. in the case of oil filled converter power transformers, capacitors, etc.,
suitable fire detection and protection facilities shall be provided, see B.3.
A.1.3 For the converter valves, optical fibers shall be preferably used for communication/controls to
avoid electromagnetic interference with other equipment on the substation.
A.2 Testing
A.2.1 Testing of the HVDC Converter Station shall be based on the guidance given in IEC 61975. A
test specification shall be issued and provided for approval.
A.2.2 At least following tests shall be contained:

• Testing of inversion and rectifying equipment
• Switching/connection of reactors, filters and capacitor banks
• EMV
• High-voltage test
Editon 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 7–1

• Short-circuit test
A.2.3 Control system disturbance tests performed at the manufacturing facility shall be based on
IEC 61000-4 and parts.
A.3 Power semiconductors and protection
A.3.1 IGBT shall generally be designed and type tested according to IEC 62501. Thyristor valves
shall comply with IEC 60700-1.
A.3.2 AC filter capacitors shall comply with IEC 60871-1. Whereas IEC 62001 shall be observed
additionally.
A.3.3 DC Filter capacitors shall comply with IEC 61071
A.4 Protection
Suitable protection devices shall be considered for DC and AC components of the HVDC converter sub-
station. These normally include at least:
• Over-current protection of AC circuit breakers
• Abnormal AC voltage protection
• Earth fault protection
• AC filter protections
• Differential protection
• Over-current protection of the converter
• Abnormal DC voltage protection
• DC discharge unit
• Valve protection, e.g., in the valve gate electronics
B Installation of HVDC Equipment

Focus on mechanical installation including location (special EMR shield of IGBT stack enclosures), Ac-
cess control to enclosures described in Section 2.
B.1 Halls for such equipment, which is emitting strong electromagnetic radiation during operation
(e.g. converter valves, smoothing reactors shall be suitably sized and equipped with suitable shielding to
protect the other equipment on the converter substation from electromagnetic disturbances.
B.2 Such locations shall be permanently locked during operation to avoid access by personnel.
Respective technical measures and/or procedures shall be introduced to GL.
B.3 Depending on the fire load of the installed equipment, a risk assessment shall be made and
suitable fire detection systems as well as fire extinguishing systems shall be provided, as necessary. E.g.
oil filled converter transformers or smoothing coils and capacitors may represent a considerable fire load
to be considered for such risk assessment.
B.4 Where a release of dangerous substances from equipment is possible, e.g. in case of a de-
tected fault in a capacitor, personnel shall be warned before entering the location, similarly as in case of a
fire alarm.
B.5 Wall penetrations, e.g. for cables from and to the valve halls shall be selected with regard to
suitable shielding properties and fire rating.

C Cooling
Requirement of IGBT liquid cooling, Safety mechanisms in case of cooling system failure.
C.1 The converter valves shall be cooled by a water-based cooling system with redundant pumps
during operation.
C.2 The power supply of the converter cooling pumps shall be maintained by an appropriately
rated UPS system to cover as a minimum the time period between a main power supply failure and the
availability of the auxiliary generator.
C.3 A total failure of the cooling system shall result in an immediate shut down of the converter
valves to avoid any hazards or severe damage of the converter valves.
D Control and Monitoring System

Description of controls, focus on safety functions
D.1 A control and monitoring system shall be installed for the HVDC conversion. Due to the high
availability requirement of an HVDC conversion plant such system a redundant system should be pre-
ferred.
D.2 An operation facility of the HVDC control and monitoring system shall be provided in the sub-
station control room as well as in the onshore control room of the grid operator.
D.3 Hardwired interfaces between HVDC control and protection system on the one side and the
fire detection and shut down systems of the converter substation on the other side shall be considered to
initiate a shut down of the HVDC converter system, in order to avoid any consequential damages.
E Power Transformers and Reactors on Converter Platforms

E.1 Converter substation power transformers, smoothing reactors or shunt reactors shall comply
with the respective requirements as per standard series 60076 if not otherwise specified in IEC 61378-2.
E.2 Transformers shall be designed for both, rectification and inversion, when not specified other-
wise.
E.3 Specific requirements resulting from their operation have to be considered in the design, which
are:
• Increased dielectric stress, caused by simultaneous presence of AC and DC voltage on the con-
verter side
• High current harmonics which lead to increased stray and leakage losses
E.4 DC pre-magnetization of the core. The increased sound level due to DC-magnetization during
operation should be observed and counteraction may be necessary, where the sound level reaches criti-
cal levels
E.5 Actual load loss in service shall be determined according to the calculation scheme given in
IEC 61378-1 in consideration of a defined field of distribution of the harmonics expected at site. Calcula-
tion shall be submitted for assessment.

E.6 The transformer shall have reliable design, also for transient conditions (voltage transients,
frequency transients), e.g., caused by GIS or converter switching. Type and Routine test shall be in line
with the requirements of IEC 61378-2.
E.7 A possibly increase of sound level at site shall be observed by the transformer manufacturer.
A consolidated estimation shall be provided for certification.
E.8 Smoothing and filter reactors shall comply with IEC 60289.


A General ....................................................................................................................... 8-1
B Protection .................................................................................................................... 8-1
C Testing ........................................................................................................................ 8-1
D Installation ................................................................................................................... 8-2
E Dry-Type Power Transformers ................................................................................... 8-2
F Liquid-Immersed Power Transformers ....................................................................... 8-2
G Further Documentation and Information Required ..................................................... 8-3
H Neutral Earthing .......................................................................................................... 8-3
I On-Load Tap Changers .............................................................................................. 8-3
A General
A.1 Power transformers are installed in several places on an offshore substation. Main purpose is
the transformation of voltage to usable voltage levels for transmission of energy, but also for the supply of
operation and control equipment of the platform. Earthing transformers and reactors are installed to en-
able proper operation of the electrical system. If not elsewise specified transformers described in this
section shall generally comply with the requirements set out in the latest applicable parts of standard se-
ries IEC 60076.
A.2 The installation of transformers in stores and accommodation areas is not permitted.
A.3 The location in which transformers for the emergency power supply are installed shall satisfy
the same conditions as apply to the installation of the emergency generator.
B Protection
B.1 Installation / unit supply transformers shall be fitted with differential protection.
B.2 Transformers shall be fitted with winding temperature monitors.
C Testing
C.1 Equipment intended to be installed on offshore substations shall be type tested according to
the standard mentioned above. A corresponding type test log presenting the results of the tests shall be
provided for certification for each type of power transformer having a rated power of more than 100 kVA.
C.2 Transformers shall comply with the latest version of international standard series IEC 60076.
This shall be verified through type test records containing at least the following tests:
• Temperature-rise test
• Power transformers shall be so designed and constructed that the permissible over-temperatures for
the thermal class are not exceeded, irrespective of the operating time. Depending on the wind tur-
bine design, the transformer might be operated at a frequency converter. The increased warming
caused by the additional harmonics shall then be taken into account for the temperature-rise test
e.g. by applying IEC 61378-1.

• Dielectric type tests (Lightning impulse test for dry-type transformers)
C.3 Test conditions

Test conditions and results of these tests will be assessed and shall comply with the requirements of IEC
60076.
D Installation
D.1 Transformers shall be installed in spaces that are well ventilated with regard to their opera-
tional heat dissipation. The transformer manufacturer shall provide information on installation and spacing
requirements in his product manual. Such a manual, also including transport, storage and maintenance
provisions, shall be handed over for certification, too.
D.2 Power transformers shall be installed in separate rooms which can be locked and which are
accessible to authorized personnel only. The access to the transformer room should only be possible with
the power transformer switched off. An exception to provisions above can be made for power transform-
ers of encapsulated or insulated design, but this has to be approved by GL in each individual case.
D.3 The fastening torque for cable connection terminals of power transformers shall be specified
and included in the design and commissioning documentation
D.4 Transformer accessories like, e.g., external protection devices and monitoring equipment
mounted on the transformer shall be made of environmental and corrosive resistant materials, when ex-
posed to salty air. This shall be verified by corresponding data sheets.
E Dry-Type Power Transformers

E.1 IEC 60076-11 “Dry-type transformers” shall be applied for the design of cast resin transform-
ers.
E.2 The transformer shall be able to withstand the conditions on the offshore substation without
accelerated ageing or weakening of the electrical insulation system (EIS) including the insulation of all
transformer terminals, to prevent fire from being caused by the transformer.
E.3 The power transformer shall be self-extinguishing. The fire class shall be F1 according to IEC
60076-11
E.4 The transformer has passed the test E3 according to IEC 60076-16 with humidity of above
95 % and water conductivity in the range between 3.6 S/m to 4 S/m.
F Liquid-Immersed Power Transformers

F.1 Liquid immersed power transformers shall be provided with a collecting arrangement which
permits the proper disposal of the liquid. The oil sump or oil separation arrangement shall have capabili-
ties to assimilate the entire oil volume of the component including possibly fire water inserted for fire fight-
ing measures.
F.2 Beneath oil filled transformers special precautions have to be taken to collect spilled oil in case
of leakage. If the insulation oil is liable to burn, reliable facilities for extinguishing the burning oil shall be

provided. Spilled oil shall not be drained into the unit’s water drainage system. A corresponding calcula-
tion including dimension and locations of collecting arrangements shall be provided for certification.
F.3 Liquid immersed power transformers should be fitted with protection against the outgassing of
the liquid.
G Further Documentation and Information Required

The following data shall be submitted in additionally:
• Outline drawing of equipment and installation including substructures
• Data sheet or at least a specification of each transformer
• Outline drawing of the rating plate. Data and information given on the nameplate shall be in accor-
dance with the requirements of IEC 60076. A corresponding nameplate shall be placed at each
transformer. When additional air-cooling with fans is provided, the transformer nameplate shall dis-
play the nominal power rating both with and without fans.
• Description of transformer protection devices (e.g. Buchholz protection, temperature monitoring)
• ITP (Inspection and Testing Procedure)
H Neutral Earthing
The substation and electrical network shall be earthed adequately. This is to avoid over-voltages in the
system and to limit harmful step and touch voltages. Further information can be found in Section 1, G.2.
I On-Load Tap Changers

Tap changers shall be conforming to standard series IEC 60214.

Section 9 Lighting
Section 9 Lighting
A Lighting Systems on Offshore Substations................................................................. 9-1
B Siting of Lights ............................................................................................................ 9-2
C Design of Light Fittings ............................................................................................... 9-2
D Power Supply to Lighting Systems ............................................................................. 9-4
This Section describes the requirements for lighting with focus on emergency/escape route lighting on the
platform.
A Lighting Systems on Offshore Substations

A.1 Main lighting
A.1.1 There shall be a main lighting system supplied by the main source of electrical power and
illuminating all areas normally accessible to and used by personnel.
A.1.2 The arrangement of the main lighting system shall be such that a fire or other casualty in the
space or spaces containing the main source of power, including transformers or converters, if any, will not
render the emergency lighting system required by A.2 inoperative.
A.1.3 The lighting level of the main lighting shall generally comply with table 5 of IEC 61892-2. Re-
spective requirements of local authorities and rules and standards shall be also observed.
A.1.4 A lighting calculation and a lighting layout shall be submitted for the main lighting.
A.2 Emergency lighting
A.2.1 An emergency lighting system is to be installed, the extent of which shall conform to Section 3,
A.4.2.1.2.
A.2.2 The arrangement of the emergency lighting system shall be such that a fire or other casualty
in the space or spaces containing the emergency source of power, including transformers or converters, if
any, will not render the main lighting system required by A.1 inoperative.
A.2.3 The emergency lighting e.g. in control or machinery spaces shall be so dimensioned to facili-
tate the start of the substation’s operation from “total shut down” condition by personnel on board.
A.2.4 The emergency lighting system shall be switched on automatically in case of a failure of the
main source of electrical power. Local switches are to be provided only where it may be necessary to
switch off the emergency lighting.
A.2.5 Emergency lights shall be marked for easy identification.
A.2.6 The lighting level of the emergency lighting shall not fall below 30 % of the main lighting level.
A.2.7 A lighting layout shall be submitted, identifying the emergency lighting. This information may
be part of those documents, mentioned in A.1.4.

Section 9 Lighting
A.3 Escape lighting
A.3.1 Escape lighting is understood as the emergency lighting according to A.2, supplied by the
transitional source of emergency power according to Section 3, A.4.2.2.3. The escape lighting shall be
operational immediately after main power failure to facilitate a safe evacuation of personnel.
A.3.2 Normally the escape lighting power supply will be based on an accumulator battery integrated
in the escape lighting fixture or a central battery with sufficient capacity for half an hour of illumination.
A.3.3 The lighting level of the escape lighting shall comply with table 6 of IEC 61892-2. Respective
requirements of local authorities and other applicable rules and standards shall be also observed.
A.3.4 A lighting calculation and a lighting layout shall be submitted for the escape lighting. This in-
formation may be part of those documents, mentioned in A.1.4.
B Siting of Lights
B.1 High-intensity lights with housings experiencing a temperature rise of more than 55 K in ser-
vice are not to be sited within arm’s reach.
B.2 The use of low-pressure sodium lamps is not permitted in areas with an explosion hazard.
B.3 For installation of light fittings or switches in bathrooms and shower rooms please refer to
IEC 60364-7-701.
B.4 Where lights are fitted in corridors, the clear headroom should be at least 1.80 m.
C Design of Light Fittings

C.1 Luminaries, floodlights and searchlights are to conform to Publications IEC 60598 and IEC
60092-306. Other standards may be recognized by GL.
C.2 For lighting in spaces with explosion hazard, such as paint stores, battery rooms or welding
gas storage rooms the lighting fixtures and the associated switches shall be type-approved with regard to
explosion-protection. Emergency and escape lighting fixtures in non-hazardous areas shall be suitable for
a zone 2 location, in case the danger of explosion can spread into these areas. The following explosion
groups and temperature classes are applicable:
• for battery rooms: IIC, T1
• for paint stores: IIB, T3
• for storerooms containing welding gas bottles: IIC, T2
Exceptions are to be approved by GL.
C.3 For minimum degrees of protection against touching and water, see Section 1, Table 1.4
C.4 For permissible voltages, see Section 1, F.
C.5 Specific environmental conditions, e.g. strong electromagnetic radiation and high tempera-
tures at ceilings in HVDC converter rooms shall be observed for lighting fixtures installed in such areas.
Manufacturers shall test and confirm suitability of lighting fixtures for special locations as applicable.

Section 9 Lighting
C.6 The surface temperature of easily touchable parts of light fittings shall normally not exceed
60 °C.
C.7 High-power lights with higher surface temperatures are to be protected against unintentional
contact by additional means.
C.8 The terminals and spaces for the connection of cables shall not reach a higher temperature
permissible for the insulation of the wires or cables used. The temperature rise in the terminal box shall
not exceed 40 K.
C.9 All the metal parts of a light fitting shall be conductively connected to each other and shall be
provided with a suitable terminal for earthing.
C.10 Wiring inside lighting fixtures shall have a minimum cross section of 0.75 mm2. A cross section
of at least 1.5 mm2 is to be used for through wiring.
Heat-resistant wires are to be used for internal wiring.
C.11 Each luminaire shall be durably marked with the following details:
• maximum permitted lamp wattage
• minimum mounting distance
C.12 Supports of live parts in lamp holders shall be at least of flame retardant material for fluores-
cent lamps and at least of incombustible material for incandescent lamps.
C.13 Special requirements for searchlights and arc lamps
C.13.1 All parts of searchlights or arc lamps to be handled for their operation or adjustment while in
use shall be so arranged that there is no risk of electrical shock to the operator.
C.13.2 Disconnection of every searchlight or arc lamp shall be by a multi-pole (all poles) disconnect-
ing switch.
If a series resistor is used with an arc lamp, the disconnecting switch shall be so placed in the supply
circuit that both the series resistor and arc lamp are disconnected when the switch is in the off position.
C.14 Special requirements for portable luminaires
C.14.1 Portable luminaires shall be so constructed and arranged that there is no risk of shock to the
Operator, in accordance with one of the methods given in the following:
• supply from an isolating transformer supplying one luminaire only
• supply at extra low voltage
• double or reinforced insulation
• earthing by means of an earth continuity conductor
C.14.2 Portable luminaries intended to be used on decks, in holds, engine rooms and other similar
spaces shall be provided with a hook or ring by which the luminaire can be suspended to avoid stress on
the supply cable.
C.15 Lighting fittings in machinery and service spaces, stores, galleys and service passageways
shall be provided with unbreakable covers or with additional mechanical protection if that afforded by their
positioning is inadequate.
C.16 Manufacturer data sheets of the lighting shall be submitted for review, indicating suitability with
regard to Ex-protection requirements as well as environmental conditions (e.g. IP rating).

Section 9 Lighting
D Power Supply to Lighting Systems

D.1 Lighting systems are to be supplied from the main switchboard, emergency lighting from the
emergency switchboard.
D.2 Final circuits
D.2.1 The maximum permissible fused current of final lighting circuits is 16 A.
D.2.2 The number of lighting points (lamps) connected to one final circuit shall not exceed:
• 10 lamps for voltages up to 55 V
• 14 lamps for voltages over 55 V
• 24 lamps for voltages over 125 V
D.2.3 Switches shall act simultaneously on all the non-earthed conductors of a circuit. The single-
pole disconnection of final lighting circuits in systems insulated on all poles is permitted only in the ac-
commodation area.
D.2.4 In the important rooms listed below the lighting shall be supplied by at least two separate
fused circuits:
• machinery and other important service spaces, safety stations and control rooms.
• large galleys
• passageways and other escapes
• stairs and passageways leading to the lifeboats
• messes and day rooms for the personnel
• helicopter landing area
Where an emergency generator set is installed, it is recommended that one of the circuits should be sup-
plied from the emergency switchboard. However, it is not permitted to supply all the lighting circuits exclu-
sively from the emergency switchboard.
The light fittings are to be so arranged that adequate illumination is maintained should any circuit fail.
D.2.5 Where, in accordance with the Rules, an installation is divided into main fire zones, at least
two circuits shall be provided for the lighting of each main fire zone, and each of these shall have its own
power supply line. The supply lines shall be routed in such a way, that a fire in one main fire zone does
not, if possible, interfere with the lighting of the other zones.


A General ..................................................................................................................... 10-1
B High Voltage Cables, Lines and Busbars ................................................................. 10-1
C Low Voltage Cables, Lines and Accessories............................................................ 10-3
A General
Cables are installed on the platform at different locations for different applications. Due to abnormal op-
eration or fire hazards cables, lines and busbars have to be selected carefully to ensure high reliability of
the overall system also during faulty conditions. Cable fire safety, cable routing, proper fixation as well as
special cable penetrations for fire rated walls are the challenges for low-voltage and high-voltage cables
on offshore transformer substations.
B High Voltage Cables, Lines and Busbars

B.1 High voltage cables shall not be run through the accommodation area. Cable layouts not ad-
hering to this rule are to be approved by GL prior to the start of installation.
B.2 Cables and lines
B.2.1 Cables shall be designed and tested according to applicable parts of standard IEC 60331 and
IEC 60332 for fire safety purposes. Fire resistant cables shall be applied, whenever associated equip-
ment shall be operable under fire conditions, e.g., power supply cables of electrical fire pumps, fire detec-
tion system cables, etc.
B.2.2 Cables with rated voltage above 1 kV shall be designed and tested according to following
standards depending on their rated voltage
• IEC 60502-2
• IEC 60840
• IEC 62067
B.3 Accessories
B.3.1 Cable termination systems on platforms shall be designed in a manner that environmental
conditions at site do not have an influence on the integrity and life-time. Sun-radiation and salty air shall
not lead to excessive ageing of equipment.
B.3.2 Accessories shall be conforming to the standards mentioned in clause B.2 above. Type tests
records of used accessories shall be provided for certification.
B.4 Cable clamps, hang-offs and other components

Care shall be taken when routing and fixing free-running cables. Appropriate cable clamps and fixing
components shall be used in consideration of the environment, but also in terms of mechanical forces
applied during platform operation.

B.5 Installation
B.5.1 High voltage cables laid in open cable trays must be provided with a continuous metal shield
or armouring against mechanical damage; shields and armouring shall have an electrically conductive
connection to the structure.
B.5.2 High voltage cables without shield or armouring shall be laid in closed metal ducts or cable
conduits, which are to have an electrically conductive connection to the structure.
B.5.3 For the installation of single core cables for AC wiring the metal ducts shall be made of non
magnetic material, unless the cables are installed in trefoil formation.
B.5.4 For bends, the minimum-bending radius permitted by the manufacturer shall be observed
B.5.5 Cables shall be installed in way that mechanical forces and operation do not lead to unaccept-
able forces and thermal overload.
B.5.6 Forces during short-circuit
B.5.6.1 Forces which are a result of electromagnetic interaction of cables during short-circuit events
can be estimated by applying calculations of IEC 60865-1.
B.5.6.2 For a 3-phase short circuit in cables systems above 1 kV forces on cable clamps shall be cal-
culated according to following equation:
μ0 3 A
Fm3 = ⋅ ⋅ ip32 ⋅
2π 2 am
Fm3 : Force applied to a cable clamp [N]
V⋅s
4 ⋅ π 10−7
A⋅m
μ0 : Magnetic permeability
Ip3 : Maximum a periodic short-circuit current [A]
am : cable distance from center to center (independent of tre-foil or single horizontal layer) [m]
A : Distance between cable clamps [m]
B.6 Selection of power cables
B.6.1 HV Cables, lines and accessories should be selected in accordance with the environmental
conditions expected at the installation site.
B.6.2 In the case of HV cables, lines and accessories installed and laid outdoors, UV resistance
shall be ensured. For the proof of UV resistance a declaration or certificate shall be provided for certifica-
tion.
B.6.3 Power Cables, lines and accessories relating to the main power transmission path shall com-
ply with the IEC publications listed in B.2.2. These standards shall be applied by the cable manufacturer,
who shall state corresponding compliance on his data sheet. Other cables or lines may be used if their
material and construction complies with equivalent standards (e.g. German VDE) and if verification of
their suitability for the application is provided.
B.6.4 Proof of the current-carrying capacity of high voltage power cables, with consideration of the
laying method and installation shall be provided. This can be achieved by applying the standard IEC
60287 or IEC 60364-5-52. An installation or routing plan of main power cables including routing and indi-
cation of mature fix points shall be provided, too. Worst-case operating conditions, such as the minimum

tolerable operating voltage and worst case power factor, shall also be considered for the determination of
sufficient current-carrying capacity of power cables and lines.
C Low Voltage Cables, Lines and Accessories

C.1 Choice of cables and wires
C.1.1 General provisions
C.1.1.1 Cables and wires shall be flame-retardant and self extinguishing as per IEC 60332.
C.1.1.2 If cable- and wire types have passed a bundle fire test according to IEC publication 60332-3,
category A/F, the installation of fire stops is dispensed with when laying in bundles
C.1.1.3 Where fire-resistant cables shall be used, it is permitted to use cables with retention of insulat-
ing capability in accordance with IEC publication 60331.
C.1.1.4 Cables manufactured in accordance with the relevant recommendations of IEC publication
60092-350, 60092-351, 60092-352, 60092-353, 60092-354, 60092-359, 60092-373, 60092-374, 60092-
375 and 60092-376 will be accepted by GL provided that they are tested to its satisfaction.
Cables manufactured and tested to standards other than those specified like above-mentioned will be
accepted provided they are in accordance with an acceptable and relevant international or national stan-
dard.
C.1.2 Conductor material and structure
C.1.2.1 Electrolytic copper with a resistivity not exceeding 17.241 Ohm mm2/km at 20 °C is to be used
as the material for the conductors of cables and wires.
C.1.2.2 If the insulation consists of natural or synthetic rubber vulcanized with sulphur, the individual
conductor wires shall be tinned.
C.1.2.3 The conductors of movable wires shall be fine-stranded.

The conductors of permanently laid cables and wires shall be made of stranded copper conductors (class
2) or flexible stranded copper conductors (class 5). Unifilar (solid) conductors up to 4 mm2 in cross-
section are permitted for the final sub-circuits of room lighting and space heating systems in the accom-
modation. Solid conductors up to 4 mm2 in cross-section are permitted for final sub circuits of room light-
ing and space heating systems in the accommodation and for special cables of TV and multimedia appli-
cations.
C.1.3 Material and wall thickness of insulating covers

The materials used for insulation shall be of standardized types for which the maximum permissible tem-
peratures at the conductors during undisturbed operation are specified.
C.1.4 Protective coverings, sheaths and braids
C.1.4.1 Single-core cables shall have a suitable separating layer of filler material or foil over the core
insulation.
C.1.4.2 Multi-core cables shall have a common core covering made of filler material or shall have a
wrapping and sheath.
C.1.4.3 Only materials of a standardized type may be used for non-metallic sheaths. In all cases the
thermal stability of the compounds used shall correspond to that of the insulating material.
C.1.4.4 Braids shall be made of corrosion-resistant material such as copper or copper alloy or of mate-
rial treated to prevent corrosion, e.g. galvanized steel.

C.1.4.5 Outer metallic wire braids shall have a coating of protective paint, which must be lead-free and
flame-retardant. The paint shall be of sufficiently low viscosity when applied to enable it to penetrate read-
ily into the wire braid. When dry, it shall not flake off when the cable is bent around a mandrel with a di-
ameter 15 times that of the cable.
C.1.5 Identification
C.1.5.1 Each cable must be marked for type and for name of manufacturer.
C.1.5.2 The cores of multi-core cables and wires shall have a permanent marking. In multi-core cables
and wires where the cores are arranged in a number of concentric layers, two adjacent cores in each
layer shall be coloured differently from each other and from all other cores, unless the individual cores are
otherwise unambiguously identified, e.g. by printed numbers.
C.1.5.3 Protective earth conductors shall have green/yellow colour coding.
C.1.5.4 Cables for intrinsically safe circuits shall to be easily identifiable. If the colour of the cable
sheath is used as identification, light blue sheath shall be used.
C.1.6 Approvals
C.1.6.1 Proof is required by the manufacturer by issue of workshop test reports stating that the con-
tinuous production is made in conformity to relevant standards and is verified by individual and sample
tests for each production length of cables. These reports shall record any deviations from the standards.
C.1.6.2 If not specified in the standards, the following tests shall be performed as an additional re-
quirement:
Ozone tests on cable sheaths whose basic material consists of natural or synthetic rubber. Test condi-
tions shall be:
• Ozone concentration: 250 - 300 ppm
• Temperature: (25 ± 2) °C
• Duration: 24 h
The test shall be carried out in accordance with IEC publication 60811-2-1. Other equivalent test methods
may be agreed with GL. The test is passed satisfactory if no cracks will be discovered visible to the naked
eye.
C.2 Cable penetrations and fire stop
C.2.1 Bulkhead penetrations
C.2.1.1 The requirements for bulkhead and deck penetrations are stated in C.8.8 below.
C.2.1.2 Type tests shall be performed in the manufacturer’s works or in acknowledged independent
institutions according to the GL Rules for Test Requirements for Sealing Systems of Bulkhead and Deck
Penetrations (VI-7-4).
C.2.2 Fire stops
C.2.2.1 The requirements for fire stops using steel plates or coatings are stated in C.8.12.2.4 and
C.8.12.2.5.
C.2.2.2 The construction of fire stops using coatings shall undergo a type test in the presence of a
Surveyor from GL Head Office in the manufacturer’s works or in independent institutes. The test require-
ments shall be agreed with GL.
C.3 Installation material
C.3.1 The installation material shall conform to IEC Publications. Other standards may be recog-
nized by GL.

C.3.2 It is necessary to ensure that terminals are suitable for the connection of stranded conductors.
Exceptions are permitted for systems with solid conductors (e.g. lighting, socket-outlets and heating ap-
pliances in the accommodation area).
C.4 Determination of conductor cross sections
C.4.1 Conductor cross-sections are to be determined on the basis of load. The calculated current
shall be equal to, or smaller than, the permissible current for the chosen conductor cross-section.
C.4.2 Cables whose maximum permissible conductor temperatures differ from each other by more
than 5 K, may be bundled together only, if the permissible current-carrying capacity of the lowest-capacity
type is taken as the rating-basis for all cables.
C.4.3 Parallel cables are permitted only with conductor cross-sections of 10 mm2 and over. Only
cables of the same length and having the same conductor cross-section may be installed as parallel ca-
bles. Equal current-distribution shall be ensured. Parallel cables may be loaded to the sum of their indi-
vidual current-carrying capacities, and shall be common fused.
C.4.4 Rating on the basis of voltage drop
C.4.4.1 Under normal service conditions, the voltage drop between the busbars (main/emergency
switchboard) and the consumers shall not exceed 6 %, or 10 % in the case of battery-supplied networks
of 50 V or less.
C.4.4.2 Where short-term peak loads are possible, for instance due to starting processes, it is to en-
sure that the voltage drop in the cable does not cause malfunctions.
C.5 Current-carrying capacity, protection and installation of circuits
C.5.1 Individual consumers and current-carrying capacity of final subcircuits

Cables shall be rated according to the expected operating load based on the connected load and mode of
operation of the consumers. The values given on the consumer’s name plate are valid.
C.5.2 Consideration of the diversity factor to be applied to group supply cables
C.5.2.1 If the connected consumers in a part of the system are not in operation simultaneously, a di-
versity factor may be used for determining the cross section of the group supply cable. A diversity factor
is the ratio of the highest operating load expected under normal operating conditions to the sum of rated
loads of all connected consumers.
C.5.2.2 The load determined by the application of a diversity factor shall be deemed to be the continu-
ous load for the determination of the cross-section.
C.5.2.3 Group supply feeders for hydraulic winches shall be rated for the installed power without the
application of a diversity factor.
C.5.2.4 The cross-section of group supply feeders for cranes shall be determined in the same way as
for cargo winches.
C.5.2.5 For cranes with one drive motor, the supply cable shall be rated according to the current rating
of the maximum load capacity.
C.5.2.6 Where cranes have more than one motor, the feeder cable to an individual crane can be rated
as follows:
The value of the current used for cross-section determination shall be equal to 100 % of the output of the
lifting motors plus 50 % of the output of all the other motors. With this calculated current the cross-section
of the cable shall be selected for continuous operation.
C.5.2.7 If current diagrams for the various operating conditions of cranes or groups of winches have
been ascertained, the average current based on the diagram may be used instead of application of a
diversity factor.

C.6 Cables overload protection
C.6.1 Cables shall be protected against short circuit and overcurrent.
C.6.2 Rating and setting of the protection devices shall be in compliance with the requirements in
Section 4 above.
C.6.3 Cables protected against overcurrent at the consumers side require only short-circuit protec-
tion at the supply side.
C.7 Cable laying for circuits
C.7.1 For single-phase and three-phase AC systems, multi-core cables are to be used wherever
possible.
C.7.2 Where single-core cables are used for large cross-sections, the outgoing and return cables
shall be laid as close as possible to each other over their entire length to avoid magnetic stray fields.
C.7.3 The generator cables, all cables run from the main or emergency switchboard or an auxiliary
switchboard, and all interconnecting cables for essential equipment, shall be laid as far as possible unin-
terrupted in length to the distribution panels or to the equipment.
C.7.4 The cables of intrinsically safe circuits shall be laid at a distance of at least 50 mm separated
from the cables of non-intrinsically safe circuits. The laying of intrinsically safe circuits together with non-
intrinsically safe circuits in a pipe is not permitted. Cables of intrinsically safe circuits shall be marked,
preferably with light blue colour.
C.8 Installation
C.8.1 Routing of cables
C.8.1.1 The routing of cables shall be such that cables are laid as straight as possible and are not
exposed to mechanical damage.
C.8.1.2 For bends, the minimum bending radius permitted by the manufacturer shall be observed. The
radius shall be not smaller than 6 times of the outer diameters of the cables.
C.8.1.3 Heat sources such as boilers, hot pipes, etc. shall be by-passed so that the cables are not
subjected to additional heating. If this is not possible, the cables are to be shielded from thermal radiation.
C.8.1.4 The tensile stress of the cables at long cable runs caused by thermal expansion and/or move-
ment of the structure shall not damage the cables, cable runs or cable penetration systems.
At long and straight cable runs like in passage ways or void spaces, etc. or at positions where unaccept-
able tensile stresses are liable to occur at the cables and cable trays, precautions shall be taken to dis-
tribute the expansion movement uniformly over a cable loop provided for such purpose, so that there is
no damaging of the cables, cable runs or cable penetration systems.
The diameter of the cable loop shall be at least 12 times the diameter of the thickest cable. In each divi-
sion should be provided at least one cable loop.
C.8.1.5 Cables shall not to be installed within room isolations.

Exceptions are permitted for lighting, socket outlets and control circuits in accommodation and refrigera-
tion rooms, provided that the maximum loading of the cables does not exceed 70 % of their current-
carrying capacity.
C.8.1.6 Where, for safety reasons, a system has duplicated supply and/or control cables, the cable
routes are to be placed as far apart as possible.
C.8.1.7 Supply cables for emergency consumers shall not be run through fire zones containing the
main source of electrical power and associated facilities. Exceptions are made for cables supplying
emergency consumers located within such areas.

C.8.1.8 The electrical cables to the emergency fire pump shall not pass through the machinery spaces
containing the main fire pumps and their sources of power and prime movers. They shall be of a fire re-
sistant type, in accordance with IEC 60331.
C.8.1.9 Cables for supply of essential equipment and emergency consumers, e.g. lighting and impor-
tant communications and signalling systems shall, wherever possible, by-pass galleys, laundries, cate-
gory A engine rooms and their casings and areas with a high fire risk.
On installations/units whose construction or small size precludes fulfilment of these requirements, meas-
ures shall be taken to ensure the effective protection of these cables where they have to be run through
the rooms mentioned above, e.g. by the use of fire-resistant cables or by flame-retardant coating, such an
installation has to be approved by GL.
C.8.1.10 Cables for high voltage installations shall be run at a distance of at least 50 mm from low-
voltage cables.
C.8.2 Fastening of cables and wires
C.8.2.1 Cable trays and cableways shall be made preferably of metallic materials which are protected
against corrosion.
Cables and wires shall be fastened with corrosion-resistant, flameproof clips or bindings. Exceptions are
made for cables which are laid in pipes or cable ducts.
Cables and wiring shall be installed and supported in such a manner as to avoid chafing or other damage.
This also applies for the installation of cables and wires in connection boxes of electrical equipment and
switchboards.
C.8.2.2 Suitable materials shall be placed together when cables are fastened to aluminium walls.
Clips for mineral-insulated cables with copper sheaths have to be made of copper alloy if they are in elec-
trical contact with the latter.
C.8.2.3 Single-core cables are to be fastened in such a manner that they are able to withstand the
electrodynamic forces occurring in the event of short circuits.
C.8.2.4 The distances between the supports for cable racks and the fastenings used shall be selected
with due regard to the cable type, cross-section and number of cables concerned.
C.8.2.5 Where cables suspended are fastened by the use of plastic clips or straps, metallic cable fix-
ing devices, spaced not more than 2 m apart shall be used additionally in the following areas:
• generally in escape routes and emergency exits, on the open deck, in refrigeration rooms and in
boiler rooms
• machinery rooms, control rooms and service rooms, where bunched cables are fastened on riser
cable trays or under the cable trays
C.8.2.6 Cable trays made from plastics shall be tightened in such a way that they do not obstruct to-
gether with the cables the escape routes in case of fire, see C.8.6.2.
The suitability of cable trays shall be proved. Such cable trays are subject to GL-approval. For installation,
see also C.8.2.5.
C.8.2.7 It is recommended, that cables and cable bunches shall not be painted.
If they still would be painted the following shall be observed:
• the paint shall be compatible with the material of the cables, and
• the flame-retardant property respectively fire resistance of the cables and cable bunches shall be
maintained
C.8.3 Stress relief

Cables shall be so installed that any tensile stresses which may occur remain within the permitted limits.
This shall be particularly observed for cables on vertical runs or in vertical conduits.

C.8.4 Protection against mechanical damage
C.8.4.1 Cables in storage holds, on open decks and at positions where they are exposed to a particu-
larly high risk of mechanical damage shall be protected by pipes, covers or closed cable ducts.
C.8.4.2 Cables passing through decks shall be protected against damage by pipe sockets or casings
extending to a height of about 200 mm over deck.
C.8.5 Installation of cables and wires in metallic pipes, conduits or closed metal ducts
C.8.5.1 If cables are installed in pipes or ducts, attention shall be paid that the heat from the cables
can be dissipated into the environment.
C.8.5.2 The inside of the pipes or ducts shall be smooth, and their ends shaped in such a way as to
avoid damage to the cable sheath.
They shall be effectively protected inside against corrosion. The accumulation of condensation water shall
be avoided.
C.8.5.3 The clear width and any bends shall be such that the cables can be drawn through without
difficulty. The bending radius of the pipe must be equivalent to at least 9 times of the outer cable diame-
ter.
C.8.5.4 Where pipes or ducts passing through areas where panting is expected, suitable means of
compensation shall be provided.
C.8.5.5 Not more than 40 % of the clear cross-section of pipes and ducts shall be filled with cables.
The total cross-section of the cables is deemed to be the sum of their individual cross-sections based on
their outside diameters.
C.8.5.6 Pipes and ducts shall be earthed.
C.8.5.7 Cables with plastic outer sheaths shall be used in pipes.
C.8.5.8 Long cable ducts and pipes shall be provided with a sufficient number of inspection and pull
boxes.
C.8.6 Installation in non-metallic pipes and ducts
C.8.6.1 Non-metallic pipes or cable ducts shall be made of flame-retardant material.
C.8.6.2 Cable trays / protective casings made of plastic materials are to be supplemented by metallic
fixing and straps such that in the event of a fire they, and the cables affixed, are prevented from falling
and causing an injury to personnel and/or an obstruction to any escape route.
Note
When plastic cable trays / protective casings are used on open deck, they are additionally to be protected
against UV light.
C.8.7 Laying of single-core cables and wires in single-phase and three-phase AC systems
In cases where use of multi-core cables is not possible, single-core cables and wires may be permitted
for installation, if the following provisions are made and the requirements of IEC publication 60092-352
are observed:
C.8.7.1 The cables shall not be armoured or shrouded with magnetic material.
C.8.7.2 All conductors belonging to one circuit shall be run together in the same pipe or duct, or
clamped by common clamps, unless the clamps are made of non-magnetic materials.
C.8.7.3 The cables forming a circuit shall be laid immediately beside of each other and preferably in
triangular configuration. If spacing cannot be avoided, the spacing shall not exceed one cable diameter.

C.8.7.4 No magnetic material shall be placed between single-core cables passing through steel walls.
No magnetic materials shall be between the cables of deck and bulkhead penetrations. Care shall be
taken to ensure that the distance between the cables and the steel wall is at least 75 mm, unless the ca-
bles belonging to the same AC circuit are installed in trefoil formation, see C.8.7.3.
For the installation of single-core parallel cables between the cable groups these measures are not nec-
essary, if the cable groups are arranged in trefoil formation.
L1 L1 L1
L2 L3 L2 L3 L2 L3
C.8.7.5 Single-core parallel cables shall be of the same length and cross-section. Furthermore, to
avoid unequal division of the current, the cables of one phase are to be laid, as far as is practicable, al-
ternatively with the cables of the other phases, e.g. in the case of two cables for each phase:
L1, L2, L3, L3, L2, L1 or L1, L2, L3

L3, L2, L1
or L3, L1, L2 or L2, L3, L1

L2, L1, L3 L1, L3, L2
C.8.7.6 To balance the impedance of the circuit in single-core cables more than 30 m long and with a
cable cross-section of more than 150 mm2, the phases are to be alternated at intervals of not more than
15 m.
C.8.7.7 For single-core cables, metallic sheaths are to be insulated from each other and from the
structure over their entire length. They shall be earthed at one end only, except earthing is required at
both ends for technical reasons (e.g. for high voltage cables). In such cases the cables shall be laid over
their entire length in triangular configuration.
C.8.8 Bulkhead and deck penetrations
C.8.8.1 Cable penetrations shall conform to the partition categories laid down by SOLAS, and shall
not impair the mechanical strength or watertightness of the bulkhead.
C.8.8.2 For testing of bulkhead and deck penetrations reference is made to the Fire Test Procedure
(FTP) Code according to IMO resolution MSC.61(67).
C.8.8.3 The cables shall not occupy more than 40 % of the cross-section of a penetration.
C.8.8.4 Vertical cable ducts shall be so constructed that a fire on one deck cannot spread through the
duct to the next higher or lower deck (see also C.8.12.2.2).
C.8.9 Cables in the vicinity of radio-communication and navigation equipment
C.8.9.1 Except where laid in metallic pipes or ducts, cables and wires with metal sheaths or metal
braiding are to be used above the uppermost metallic deck and in positions where the cables and wires
are not separated by metallic bulkheads or decks from aerials, aerial downleads, the radio room, direction
finder or other radio navigation or receiving equipment. The metallic sheaths and shields are to be
earthed.
C.8.9.2 Only cables required in the radio room shall be laid there. If cables without a braid shielding
have to be run through a radio room, they shall be installed in a continuous metallic pipe or duct which is
earthed at the entrance to and exit from the room.
C.8.9.3 Single-core cables are not permitted in the radio room.

C.8.9.4 If the radio equipment is installed on the bridge, the requirements stated above are to be com-
plied with as and where applicable.
C.8.10 Earthing of braided screens of cable network and accessories
C.8.10.1 Metallic cable sheaths, armouring and shields in power installations shall be electrically con-
nected at each end to the installation’s/unit’s main structure; single-core cables shall be earthed at one
end only. For cables and wires for electrical equipment, the manufacturer’s recommendation shall be
observed, earthing at one end only is recommended. This applies also to intrinsically safe circuits.
C.8.10.2 Electrical continuity of all metallic cable covers shall also be maintained inside cable junction
and terminal boxes.
C.8.10.3 Metallic cable sheaths, armouring and shields shall be earthed, preferably using standardized
cable gland fittings designed for that purpose or suitable equivalent clips or earth clamps.
C.8.10.4 If the cable armouring is used as earthing conductor the cross-section has to be equivalent to
that of a separate earthing conductor.
C.8.11 Cable joints and branches
C.8.11.1 Cables may be extended only with special approval of GL. The used material has to be ap-
proved by GL and shall maintain the flame-retardant - and where required - the fire-resistant properties of
the cables.
C.8.11.2 Junction and distribution boxes must be accessible and marked for identification.
C.8.11.3 Cables for safety low voltage shall not pass a junction or distribution box together with cables
for higher voltage systems.
C.8.11.4 Terminals for systems of different types of systems, especially such of differently operating
voltages, shall be separated.
C.8.12 Measures to limit the propagation of fire along cable and wire bundles
C.8.12.1 All cables shall be installed so that the original flame-retardant properties of the individual ca-
bles are not impaired. This requirement can be considered to be fulfilled if:
• the bundled cable types are individually flame-retardant and have successfully passed bundle fire
test in accordance with IEC publication 60332-3, category A/F
• suitable measures have been taken during installation, e.g. the providing of fire stops or the applica-
tion of flame-proof coatings
C.8.12.2 Fire stops

For cable bundles consisting of cables which have not been subjected to a bundle fire test, the following
precautions shall be taken to limit the fire propagation:
C.8.12.2.1 Fire stops shall be provided:
• at main and emergency switchboards
• at cable entrances into engine control rooms
• at central control panels and consoles for important equipment and for important auxiliaries
C.8.12.2.2 In closed and semi-enclosed rooms, fire stops shall be provided at the following locations:
• at each entry and exit point of cable runs in enclosed metallic installation shafts
• for open vertical cable runs, at least for every second deck, limited to a maximum spacing of 6 m
• every 14 m for open horizontal cable runs

C.8.12.2.3 Exceptions
The fire stops specified in item 1 and item 3 of C.8.12.2.1 can be omitted if the switchboards or consoles
are installed in separate rooms and measures have already been taken at the points of entrance to these
rooms. Fire stops shall be provided only for the boundaries of these rooms.
C.8.12.2.4 Version of fire stops
The flame propagation of cables passing through fire stops shall fulfil the SOLAS requirements for B-O
partitions.
Fire stops may, for example, be formed by existing partitions or by a steel plate (min. 3 mm in thickness)
together with a B-O penetration.
The steel plate shall be so formed that it extends around the cables as specified below:
• twice the maximum dimension of the cable run with vertically laid cables
• the maximum dimension of the cable run with horizontally laid cables
The steel plates, however, need not to be extended through upper covers, decks, bulkheads or trunk
walls.
C.8.12.2.5 Application of flame-proof coatings
Instead of the fire stops specified in C.8.12.2.4, installed cable bundles may be provided with (GL type-
approved) flameproof coatings as follows:
• for horizontal cable runs for every 14 metres, a length of 1 m
• on vertical cable runs over the entire length
Other distances for the coatings may be approved after special testing.
C.8.12.2.6 Alternative methods
Other methods which have been proved to be equivalent to the measures stated in C.8.12.2.4 and
C.8.12.2.5 may be accepted.
C.8.12.2.7 Explanatory sketches
Explanatory notes to the installation provisions described above are given in Fig. 10.1 – 10.4.
C.9 Application of fire-resistant cables
C.9.1 Scope of installations
C.9.1.1 Cables for services required to be operable under fire conditions including those for their
power supplies are to be of a fire resistant type where they pass through high fire risk areas, fire zones or
decks, other than those which they serve.
C.9.1.2 Systems that are self monitoring, fail safe or duplicated with cable runs as widely separated as
is practicable may be exempted provided their functionality can be maintained.

B - O Penetration
B - O Penetration
Fig. 10.1 Fire stops, all plates at least 3 mm thick
a
A
2a
Fire stop with steel plate and

6m B - O Penetration
a
B
2a
2a
Fig. 10.2 Partly-enclosed ducts - vertical

Steel plate
14 m
B-O B-O
Penetration Penetration
DECK DECK
a Steel plate
a 1a
Fig. 10.3 Partly-enclosed ducts – horizontal
Vertical
or
2a
2a 2a a 2a FIRE STOP
Coating entire length
6m
FIRE STOP
Steel plate B-O

Penetration
Horizontal
14 m Steel plate
1a
a
1a 1a FIRE STOP
B-O Penetration
1a
14 m
1m 1m
Coating Coating
Fig. 10.4 Open cable runs

Notes
• In case of cables for services required to be operable under fire conditions the fire resistant cables
are to extend from the control/monitoring panel to the nearest local distribution panel serving the
relevant deck/area.
• In case of power supply cables used for services required to be operable under fire conditions, the
fire resistant cables are to extend from their distribution point within the space containing the emer-
gency source of electrical power to the nearest local distribution panel serving the relevant
deck/area.
C.9.2 Emergency services required to be operable under fire conditions include:

• fire and general alarm system
• fire extinguishing systems and fire extinguishing medium alarms
• fire detection system
• control and power systems to power operated fire doors and status indication for all fire doors
• control and power systems to power operated watertight doors and their status indication
• emergency lighting
• public address system
• low level lighting
• emergency shut down system
C.9.3 Installation
For installation of fire-resistant cables the following shall be observed:
• The cables shall be arranged in such a way as to minimise the loss of operational availability as a
result of a limited fire in any area.
• The cables shall be installed as straight as possible and with strict observance of special installation
requirements, e.g. permitted bending radii.
C.10 Requirements for busbar trunking systems intended for the electrical supply of distri-
bution panels and single consumers
C.10.1 Scope
The following listed additional requirements are valid for the design and the installation of busbar trunking
systems, which are installed outside of switchboards and are intended for the supply of distribution
boards or single consumers.
Busbar trunking systems shall not be installed in explosion endangered areas and on the open deck.
C.10.2 Components of the busbar trunking system

A busbar trunking system consists of the following components:
• electrical conductors including neutral and protective conductors, their insulation and the encase-
ment of the busbar trunking system
• connecting elements
• separation units
• insulators and fixing elements
• arc barriers
• tap-off units
• bulkhead and deck penetrations
• protection devices

C.10.3 Requirements
C.10.3.1 Basic requirements

The safety standard and availability of mains designed to include busbar trunking systems shall be at
least equivalent to those of conventionally cables mains, even in case of failure.
Busbar trunking systems shall comply with the requirements of IEC publications 60439-1 and 60439-2.
C.10.3.2 Requirements for components

C.10.3.2.1 Degree of protection
The design of the busbar trunking system shall comply with the following minimum degrees of protection:
• dry spaces, e.g. accommodation: IP 54
• wet spaces, e.g. engine rooms: IP 56
The operational readiness of the busbar trunking system shall be not impaired by condensed moisture.
Where required, means for automatic draining shall be provided.
Busbar trunking systems shall be protected against mechanical damage.
C.10.3.2.2 Bulkhead and deck penetrations, fire protection
The materials used shall be halogen-free and shall be flame-retardant according to IEC publication
60695-2.
The whole busbar trunking system shall meet with regard to the flame-spread the test requirements of
IEC publication 60332-3, category A/F.
Bulkhead and deck penetrations for busbar trunking systems shall conform to categories laid down by
SOLAS and shall not impair the mechanical strength and the water tightness of bulkheads and decks.
The propagation of smoke via the busbar trunking system shall be effectively prevented.


A General ..................................................................................................................... 11-1
B Tests in the Presence of a GL-Inspector .................................................................. 11-1
C Tests of Units / Components / Installations .............................................................. 11-2
D Installation Inspection and Tests at the Building Yard.............................................. 11-2
E Commissioning ......................................................................................................... 11-3
A General
A.1 The following Rules apply to the testing of electrical and electronic installations, equipment
and components.
A.2 Within the framework of their general quality assurance programme, manufacturers shall en-
sure that the products they manufacture conform to the specified requirements. Records shall be made,
containing quality-assurance measures and tests and shall be handed over to GL on request.
A.3 For certain installations, equipment and components, testing is required in the presence of a
GL-Inspector according to these Rules. The tests and items for testing specified below constitute mini-
mum requirements. GL reserve the right to demand that tests also be performed on other items, either on
the unit/installation or in the manufacturer's works.
A.4 It is the aim of the tests to verify conformity with the requirements covered by the Rules for
Construction, and to prove the suitability of equipment for its particular application.
B Tests in the Presence of a GL-Inspector

B.1 General
The tests shall be carried out on the basis of the approved documents. They shall be performed in accor-
dance with a recognized standard.
B.2 Components, appliances and installations subject to testing
B.2.1 Electrical machines

1. Generators and motors for essential equipment P ≥ 50 kW / kVA
2. Transformers and reactors P ≥ 100 kVA
B.2.2 Power electronics

Essential equipment P ≥ 50 kW/ kVA
B.2.3 Switchboards
a) Main switchboards
b) Emergency switchboards

C Tests of Units / Components / Installations

C.1 General
The tests are divided into
• tests during and after manufacturing
• tests at the building yard
• tests during sea trials for units or at operational location for installations
C.2 Tests during construction
C.2.1 During the period of construction of the component/unit, the systems shall be checked for con-
formity with the documents approved by GL.
C.2.2 Test Certificates for tests which have already been performed shall be presented to the GL-
Inspector on request.
D Installation Inspection and Tests at the Building Yard

D.1 General
Proofs are required of the satisfactory condition and proper operation and installation of the main and
emergency power supply systems. The tests and inspections to be performed shall be agreed with the
GL-Inspector in accordance with the specific characteristics of the subject equipment and installation.
D.2 Generators
A test run of the generator sets shall be conducted under normal operating conditions.
D.3 Storage batteries

The following shall be tested for function, respectively visually inspected:
a) Installation of storage batteries.
b) Ventilation of battery rooms and boxes, and cross-sections of ventilation ducts.
c) Storage-battery charging equipment.
d) Required caution labels and information plates.
D.4 Switchgear
The following items shall be tested:
a) Accessibility for operation and maintenance
b) Protection against the ingress of water and oil from ducts and pipes in the vicinity of the switchboards,
and sufficient ventilation
c) Equipment of main and emergency switchboards
d) Correct settings and operation of protection devices and interlocks
D.5 Power electronics

The following items shall be tested:
a) Ventilation of the place of installation
b) Function of the equipment and protection devices

D.6 Testing of the cable network

Inspection cable installation and cable routing with regard to
a) Acceptability of cable routing with regard to
• separation of cable routes
• fire safety
• the reliable supply of emergency consumers
b) Selection and fixation of cables
c) Construction of watertight and fireproof bulkhead and deck penetrations
Testing of insulation resistance measurement
E Commissioning
Testing / Inspection of the fully completed unit / installation or substation will take place at the building
yard, as far as possible. Remaining tests and inspections will be done at the operational location / instal-
lation site.

Will be added later (reference to all cited Standards & Codes)
Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page A–1


A General (Low Voltage / High Voltage) ........................................................................B-1
B Low Voltage Systems on the Substation ....................................................................B-1
C High Voltage Systems on the Substation ...................................................................B-2
A General (Low Voltage / High Voltage)

• Electrical Basis of Design, including a list of referenced Standards for the Electrical Installations on
the Substation
• Description of the HV and LV system including operational and emergency states
• Electrical Equipment Arrangement Drawings of:
◦ Control Rooms
◦ Low Voltage Switchgear rooms
◦ UPS and Battery rooms
◦ High Voltage GIS rooms
◦ Transformer and Reactor rooms / locations
◦ Diesel Generator Rooms
◦ Converter rooms (HVDC Converter Substations only)
◦ Filter rooms (HVDC Converter Substations only)
◦ etc.
• Maintenance manuals of all major electrical equipment
• Design documentation of Cables and Cable Transits on the substation (HV- / LV- / Instrument ca-
bles):
◦ Specifications
◦ Data Sheets
◦ Cable Schedules (incl. information on cable type, cross-sectional area, etc.)
◦ Type Approval Certificates of Multi Cable Transits (MCT’s) and Cable Penetrations
◦ Cable Routing Layouts
◦ Typical cable arrangements (detailing segregation of different cable categories)
• Design documentation for earthing:
◦ earthing study
◦ earthing and equipotential bonding plan, indicating earthing bars and conductor cross sections
◦ typical earthing/bonding installation drawings
• Design Documentation of Lightning Protection of the substation including:
◦ lightning protection study considering protection classes, description of protection zone con-
cept, global description of arrangements for lightning rods, ground conductors and over-
voltage arresters
◦ associated drawings of lightning protection zones
B Low Voltage Systems on the Substation

• General LV Single Line Diagram, indicating Main and Emergency Switchboard(s), Auxiliary Trans-
formers (HV/LV), Auxiliary/Emergency sources of power (Diesel Gensets, UPS Systems), etc.
Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page B–1

• Electrical LV load list and balance, covering island and emergency power supply scenarios, i.e
power supply by generators
• Short circuit Calculations LV System
• Control systems block diagram(s), indicating data communication interfaces to the onshore control
facilities
• Design Documentation of Diesel Generator Sets:
◦ technical Specifications
◦ generator and Engine Data Sheets
◦ data sheets of local panels and control units
◦ coupling data sheet, if applicable
◦ tank data sheets or other design documentation
◦ Type Approval Certificates of engines and alternators
◦ torsional vibration calculations of actual engine/alternator configurations for the selected shaft
coupling
◦ fuel storage, Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID’s)
• Additionally, the following information shall be available:
◦ Consumption statistics
◦ description of start-up and stop procedures
◦ fill level control and alarm
◦ ITP and FAT Procedures of Gensets
• Design Documentation of Electrical LV Switchboards, Distribution Boards and Protection Devices:
◦ Specifications
◦ Data Sheets
◦ Switchgear Drawings, indicating consumers, cable cross sections, associated fuses and protec-
tion devices.
◦ ITP and FAT Procedures of LV Switchgear
• Design Documentation of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Units for safety related systems:
◦ Specifications of all relevant components (rectifier, inverter, etc.) of the entire unit
◦ associated Data Sheets
◦ ITP and FAT Procedures of UPS Units
• Design Documentation of UPS Battery Systems and Battery Rooms:
◦ Proof of autonomy times (battery capacity calculations)
◦ Battery Data Sheets
◦ Type Approval Certificates concerning Ex-Protection for Electrical Equipment inside Battery
rooms (e.g. luminaires, switches, etc.)
◦ Battery Room Ventilation Calculations
• Design documentation for Substation Lighting:
◦ Main/Emergency Lighting Layouts
◦ Data Sheets of Luminaires
◦ Luminaires
◦ Illumination calculations for Main/Escape Lighting
C High Voltage Systems on the Substation

• HV Single line diagram of the Substation, indicating major Equipment:

◦ incl. High Voltage Switchgear (GIS), High Voltage Power Transformers, Earthing Transformers,
Compensation Reactors, etc.
◦ incl. e.g. IGBT’s, Smoothing Coils, Filters, etc. (HVDC Converter Substation only)
• Design Documentation of High Voltage Transformers/Reactors, Auxiliary Transformers > 100 kVA,
according to standard series IEC 60076:
◦ Specifications
◦ Data Sheets
◦ test records of type tests
◦ Description and design documentation of transformer protection (Buchholz protection, tempera-
ture, etc.)
◦ Information regarding installation of power transformers, e.g. arrangement, earthing, collection
arrangement for capturing of liquids (for oil-immersed transformers), etc.
◦ ITP and FAT Procedures of Transformers/reactors
• Design Documentation of High Voltage Gas Insulated Switchgear according to IEC 62771 and re-
lated battery systems:
◦ Specifications
◦ Data Sheets of cubicles, switches, protection devices, etc.
◦ Description of over pressure design, incl. overpressure calculations with regard to internal arc
faults in case of overpressure release into the switchgear room.
◦ Summary report of type tests incl. test records of IAC-classification/ arc testing
◦ Commissioning procedures for protection devices (e.g. factory acceptance tests)
• Design Documentation of Protection devices including:
◦ Detailed description of protection concept
◦ General description of over voltage, short-circuit and earth fault protection devices
◦ Design documentation of protection co-ordination, default settings for protection devices,
• Insulation coordination study:
Detailed description of coordination of lightning impulse, switching impulse and voltage levels of all
main components according to IEC 60071 and general description of required voltage-limiting ar-
rangements

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Rules for the Certification and Construction

Reproduction by printing or photostatic means is only permissible with the consent of

Published by: Germanischer Lloyd SE, Hamburg

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

Section 2 Arrangement of Electrical Facilities

Section 3 Auxiliary Power Supply Installation

Section 4 Power Distribution and Electrical Protection

Section 5 Low-Voltage Switchgear Assembly

Section 6 High-Voltage Switchgear

Section 7 HVDC Converter Substation

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 3

B Installation of HVDC Equipment .................................................................................... 7- 2

Section 8 Power Transformers and Reactors

Section 10 Cable Network

Section 11 Inspections and Tests

Annex A List of Standards & Codes

Annex B Documents for Certification

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 4

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 1–1

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

B.2 Offshore substation

B.3 LVDS (Low Voltage Distribution System)

B.4 HVPS (High Voltage Power System)

B.5 HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current)

B.6 Emergency consumers

B.7 Wet service spaces

B.8 Dry service spaces

B.9 Locked electrical spaces

B.10 Type test

B.11 Main lighting

B.12 Emergency lighting

B.13 Additional emergency lighting

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 1–2

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

B.14 Transitional emergency lighting

B.15 Fire-resistant cables

B.16 Flame-retardant cables

B.17 Flame-proof coating

C Electric Network Configuration

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 1–3

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

E Materials and Insulation

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 1–4

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

E.1.3 The usage of halogen-free materials is strongly recommended.

E.2 Corrosion protection

F Voltages and Frequencies

Table 1.1 AC Voltage

Edition 2013 Germanischer Lloyd Page 1–5

Section 1 General Requirements and Instructions

Table 1.2 DC Voltage

Voltage variations (steady state) ±10 %

Periodic voltage variations 5%

Ripple (AC r.m.s. on DC voltage) 10 %

F.1.2 The total harmonic distortion (THD) shall not exceed 8 %.

F.2 Abnormal operation (Emergency state, Island operation)

G Lightning Protection, Earthing and other Protective Measures