( Reaffirmed 1996 )

IS : 9835- 1981

Indian Standard
SPECIFICATION FOR
SERIES CAPACITORS FOR
POWER SYSTEMS

Power Capacitors Sectional Committee, ETDC 29

Chninnon Refmse~rlir2p
SIIRI 1’. J. WADIA Tat3-Hydra-Electric Power Co Ltd, Bombay

Membe7s
SI~RI V. N. MANOHAR ( Alternnleto
Shri I’. J. \l’adia )
SHRI P. K. BHATTACHARJEE ‘1‘11c Calcutta Electric Supply (India) I,ttl, Calcutta
SHRI G. CIIATTERJEE ( AIfcrnnlc )
SHRI B. CHA~RAI~ORTY India Cqacitors Ltd, Calcutta
SHRI T. K. DUTTA CIIOUDIIURT ( Allemrttc I
I>rnm~on ( DISTRIIWTION ) Ccrrtral Electricity Arltllolity, Nr\v Delhi
l)y DIRECTOR ( SWSTATI~N~ ) ( .Ille7~nle )
SHRI P. H. GAGV.~NI Khat:ru Jurkcr Ltd, Bombay
SHRI 1~. I,. GARC Directorate Gcncral of Sup’plics Sr. Disposals, New
Delhi
SHRI R. N. NARAYANAN ( Alternate )
JOINT L)IRECTOR ( SS )/‘I7 Railwa) Buard, Millistry of Railways, New lklhi
UY DIRLCTOR ( PSI )/TI ( Alf~rnnfe )
SHRI KAUSIIAL DISV Hsryana State F.lcctricity Board, Chandigarh
SHKI A. S. M~IITA ( Alternofe )
SHRI R. KRISHNAMURTHY Ellarat Ileavy Elcctricals L!tl, H,derabad
SHRI ‘I’. ADHIKARI ( Allcrnnte I )
SHRI S. (:. NIMA ( illtet-,UZle [I )
SIIRI S. KRISIINARAJ Tamil N,Ldu Elcctl-icity Bo,lrd, A4adras
SlmI I. MATII~:ICA~~AXHI ( .4Itcnznfe )
SHRI S. H. MARHIJANI (;ujarat Xlcctricity IJoald, \.adodlrra
SHRI T. B. MISTRY ( Alte~nle )
SIIRI K. S. MURTHY \\‘. S. Irlsulators of India Ltd, Rladras
SIIRI S. RAJAN ( Altrmate )
SIIRI V. R. NARASIMIIAN Central I’owrr Resea~cl~ Illstitute, Bangalorc
SHRI M. C. KATRA ( Af1er~nte)
SHRI M. K. RANGA Rho Karnnkka State Llcctricity Boar<!, Baqplorc
SHRI DASAPPA ( nl/ernutc )
SHRI SATWANT SINCH SANDHU I’unjab Stotv Electricity Board, Patiala
SIIRI R. C. MATIIUR ( .,ll!vtiale j
SHRI P. I<. SAXF.NA RumI T<lccf~ification Corporation Ltd, New Delhi
&RI G. L. DrlA ( Allernale )
( Continued on pace 2 )

@ Copyrighr 1982
INDIAN STANDARDS INSTITUTION
This publication is protected under the Indian Copyright Acr (XIV of 1957 ) and
reproduction in whole or in part by any means except with wrltten permission of the
publisher shall be deemed to be an infringement of copyright under the raid Act.
IS : 9835- 1981

(Continuedfrom page 1 )

Members Repesenhg
SIIRI T. K. SRINIVASAN Madhya Pradesh Electricity Board, Jnbalpur
SHRI D. M. TAGARE Madhav Capacitors Pvt Ltd, Bombay
SARI V. M. TAGARE ( Alternnte)
SIZRI B. L. VEN~ATRAMAN Indian Electrical Xanufacturcrs’ Assuciatio~l,
Bombay
SHRI S. S. KAKKAR ( Alternate )
SHRI U. S. VERMA National Test House, Calcutta
SHRI SANATIXKUMAR ( Atcmale )
SHRI S. P. SACHDEV. Director General, IS1 ( Ex-ofjcio Member )
Director ( Elcc t&h )

SHRI R. K. MONOA
Deputy Director ( Elec tech ), IS1
 IS : 9835- 1981

hdian Standard
SPECIFICATION FOR
SERIES CAPACITORS FOR
POWER SYSTEMS

0. FOREWORD
0.1 This Indian Standard was adopted by the Indian Standards Institution
on 5 June 1981, after the draft finalized by the Power Capacitors Sectional
Committee had been approved by the Electrotechnical Division Council.

0.2 The series capacitors reduce the inductive line reactance and decrease
the phase angle between the voltages at the ends of the line, they arc used in
long transmission lines to improve the voltage regulation and the system
stability and so to increase the loading capacity of the line.

0.3 The series capacitors are also used for improving the load distribution
between lines working in parallel and thereby reducing the total trans-
mission losses.

0.4 Because of their automatic and instantaneous response, series capacitors

are used in distribution lines to reduce rapid voltage fluctuations due to
load fluctuations, which cannot be reduced by voltage regulators.
Consequently, the voltage conditions in the system are improved in most
cases.

0.5 Because of the fluctuating line current, series capacitors are subjected
to much greater fluctuations of the voltage between their terminals than
shunt capacitors. When a short-circuit occurs in the system, the voltage
may be so high that a capacitor designed to withstand it would be un-
economical. Therefore, overvoltages between terminals are limited in most
cases by an overvoltage protector which bypasses the capacitor.

0.6 The effect of series capacitors on the system and their operating
conditions are different in almost every case of their application. To
attain the best technical and economic results, each particular case should
be studied individually with close cooperation between the manufacturer
and the purchaser.
0.7 The series capacitors are being used in the transmission and distribu-
tion of electric power in the country. Need has been felt for standardizing
the ratings, performance, requirements and test methods for series
capacitors.

3
IS : 9835 - 1981

0.8 The shunt capacitors for power systems are covered by another standard
IS : 2834-1981”.
0.9 In the preparation of this standard, assistance has been derived from
IEC Publication 143 ( 1972 ) ‘Series capacitors for power systems’ issued by
International Electrotechnical Commission.
0.10 For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this
standard is complied with, the final value, observed or calculated, expressing
the result of a test. shall be rounded off in accordance with 1s : Z-19604.
The number of sienificant nlaces retained in the rounded off value should
be the same as that of the ‘specified value in this standard.

1. SCOPE

1.1 This standard specifies the service conditions, insulation levels,

performance, safety requirements, and tests which apply to the capacitor
units and their assemblies along with accessories to form complete series
capacitor equipment for connection in series with a transmission or distri-
bution line or circuit forming part of an ac low or high voltage power system
having a frequency of 50 Hz.
1.2 The specification also provides guidance for installations and operation
of such capacitors.
1.3 This standard does not cover the following types of capacitors for
which separate Indian Standards have been prepared.
IS : 9348-1979 Coupling capacitor and capacitor dividers
IS : 1569-1976 Capacitors for use in tubular fluorescent, high pressure
mercury and low pressure sodium vapour discharge lamp circuits
(jirst revision )
IS : 2993-1975 Motor capacitors (jkt revision )
IS : 1709-1960 Fixed capacitors for fans

2. TERMINOLOGY

2.1 For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions in addition
to definitions given in IS : 1885 ( Part XLII)-1977$ shall apply.
2.2 Rated Current ( Z,, ) -The rms value of the continuous sinusoidal
current at rated frequency for which the capacitor is designed.
*Specification for shunt capacitors for power systems (J;nt r~visiorz ).
$Rulcs for rounding off numerical values ( revised ).
fElectrotechnica1 vocabulary: Part XL11 Power capacitors.

4
 Is : 9835- 1981

2.3 Rated Voltage ( Vn ) - The rms value of the voltage between terminals,
calculated from rated capacitance, rated current and rated frequency.
2.4 Tangent of Loss Angle ( Tan 8 ) -- The capacitor losses divided by the
reactive power of the capacitor.
2.5 Limiting Voltage ( Vii, ) -The maximum instantaneous voltage
between capacitor terminal occurring immediately - before or during opera-
tion of the overvoltage protector, divided by ti 2.
2.6 Short-Time Voltage ( V,) -The rms value of the sinusoidal test
voltage between terminals which characterizes the ability of a series
capacitor to withstand short-time overvoltages.
2.7 Insulation Level ( Vi ) - The combination of test voltage values ( both
power-frequency and impulse) which characterizes the insulation of the
capacitor with regard to its capability of withstanding the electric stresses
between terminals and earth, between terminals and metalwork not at
earth potential.
2.8 Highest Voltage of a System ( V, ) -The highest rms phase-to-phase
voltage which can occur under normal operating conditions at any time
and at any point on the system. It excludes temporary voltage variations
due to fault conditions and the sudden disconnection of large loads.

3. RATINGS

3.1 Rated Outputs -The rated outputs shall be as agreed to between the
manufacturer and the user.
3.2 Rated Voltage -The rated voltage of the series capacitor shall be as
agreed to between the manufacturer and the user.
3.3 Rated Frequency - The rated frequency for the purpose of this
standard shall be 50 Hz.
NOTE -If a frequency, higher or lower than that stated above, is specified by the
purchaser, it does not preclude compliance with this standard. In such a case
corresponding changes, where necessary, shall be taken into account as indicated in
their respective places.

4. SERVICE CONDITIONS

4.1 Ambient Temperatures - Capacitors shall be suitable for operation in

any of the temperature categories given in Table 1 as specified by the
purchaser.
NOTE- If the capacitors are likely to be subjected to temperature of - 10°C or
below in their un-energized state, the manufacturer should be advised at the time of
purchase.
 TABLE 1 AMBIENT TEMPERATURES
( Clauses 4.1 and A-4.3 )

UPPER LIMIT OF TEMPERATURE MAXIMUMAMBIENTAIR TE~IPERATURE

CATEGORY r-‘-------- _A_---____7
Mean Over Mean Over Mean Over
lh 24h 1 Year

(1) (2) (3) (4)

“C! “C “C “C
40 40 30 20
45 45 40 30
50 50 45 35

4.2 Altitude -Unless otherwise specified, capacitors shall be suitable for

operation on sites at altitudes up to and including I 000 mctres above sea
level.

5. PERMISSIBLE OVERLOADS

5.1 Working Currents- Series capacitor banks shall be suitable for

repeated operation at currents not exceeding 1.5 times the rated current
I,, subject to the following conditions:
The overcurrcnt shall not exceed:
1.10 I,, for X hours in a 12 h period;
1.35 I,, for 30 min in a 6 h period; and
I.50 In for 10 min in a 2 h period.

The average output of the capacitor bank over any service period of
24 h shall not exceed by more than 10 percent of the output calculated
from measured capacitance, rated current and rated frequency.
NOTE - The above values correspond to the minimum overload requirements.
With certain network configurations, for example, for lines operating in parallel, the
requirements may be more severe. This may change the test requirements of dis-
charge test ( SEC15 ). 1~ such cases, the test requirements would bc specified by the
purchaser.

5.2 Transient Overvoltages - Series capacitors shall be suitable for repeated

operations at transient overvoltages with the highest possible instantaneous
value that is expected, to occur across the capacitor terminals.

The expected magnitude of the overvoltage shall be as agreed to

between the manufacturer and the purchaser. The purchaser shall give the
estimated repetition rate.

6
 IS : 9835 - 1981

6. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

6.1 Discharge Devices - Each capacitor unit and/or bank shall be provided
with means for discharging each unit to 50 volts or less from an initial
voltage of 2/Y times the rated voltage V,. The discharge device may be
internal or external to the capacitor unit.
6.1.1 The maximum discharge time shall be one minute for capacitors
rated up to and including 650 V, and five minutes for ratings above 650 V.
There shall be no switch, fuse cut-out, etc, between the capacitor and the
discharge device.
6.1.2 Discharge circuits shall have adequate current carrying capacity
to discharge a capacitor from a voltage level equal to ~~ Slim.
NOTE 1 - Capacitors connected directly to other electrical equipment providing a
discharge path shall be considered properly dischargeable, provided that the circuit
characteristics are such as to ensure the discharge of the capacitor within the times
specified above.
NOTE 2 -The use of a discharge device is not intended as a substitute for short-
circuiting the capacitor terminals together and connecting them to earth before handl-
ing.
NOTE 3 - A puncture in a unit cleared by a fuse or a Aashover across part of the
hank prior to the closure of the bypass switch, for instance, can produce local residual
charges inside the bank which cannot be clcarcd by means of a discharge device con-
nected between the terminals of the bank.
NATE 4 -Operating conditions with higher than rated voltage and the connection
of units in series may cause the 50 volt limit to be exceeded.

NoTe 5 - \Vhcn the capacitors may be switched OK and on at very short intervals
(rapid reclosure uf the lines, etc) particular attention should be paid to the fact that
the discharge device provided in accordance with this clause may not be adequate to
avoid undue overvoltage across the terminals of the bank.

6.2 Container Connections - It shall be possible to make a reliable connec-

tion to the metal container of a capacitor so as to enable the potential of
the container to be fixed.
6.3 Other Safety Requirements - Capacitors shall comply with the relevant
general safety regulations for power installations, that is, Indian Electricity
Rules, 1956.

7. INSULATION LEVELS

7.1 Insulation Levels Between Terminals and Metalwork not at Earth

Potential ~..- Unless otherwise specified, the insulation level between the
capacitor terminals and the unit container and/or the associated supporting
metalwork connected thereto, of a capacitor unit or bank shall be dctcr-
mined as give in 7.1.1.

7
IS : 9835 - 1981

7.1.1 The rated voltage between terminals of the part of the equipment
under considerati:,n shall be multiplied by 1.7 and the value thus obtained
shall be regarded as the equivalent V, value for the part of the equipment
in question. This value, or its nearest higher value appearing in co1 1 of
Table 2 or Table 3 shall be used to determine the insulation level.

However, the value of V, which is adopted shall be such that the

resulting ‘power-frequency test voltage’ indicated in Tables 2 and 3 is not
less than V, for the part of the capacitor or equipment under consideration.

As regards the damping circuit and the insulation connected in parallel

with the damping circuit, the tcjt voltages shall be chosen taking into
account the voltage appearing across the damping circuit when the ovcr-
voltage protector operates ( xc A-5 and A-G ).

TABLE 2 INSULATION LEVELS FOR I’, BELOW 100 kV

( Clnic.tr~ 7. 1.1, 14.3.1.1, 11.3.2.2, 11.3.3, 1.1.3:~.1 o//n <i-6.1 )

fIICHEST SYSTEM vOLT.\Gi: 1KSUL.4TlON hVKL

( ~‘H.4SE-~Kbl’HASl’. ) r. - -.- _...-- ~.____ A_-_---~~_ ___~ ___~

V, Power-l“I-equcncy Test Voltage Impulse

(kV rms) (kV rms) \_oltage
Y--------- h ______.._ ~ ( kV peak )
In tern:11 External
!‘nsulatiun insulation
\vct for outdoors

(2)

(I.6 3 G 1.;

1.2 G 11 25

2.4 11 16 35

3.6 16 21 45
7.2 22 27 60

12 28 35 75

17.5 3:; 45 91

L’1 50 55 125

36 70 75 I70

52 1?5 105 250

72.5 l‘l(l 140 325

I-“-.J_*.-_~.I_~~-“I~I-m

8
 IS : 9835 - 1981

TABLE 3 INSULATION LEVELS FOR V, ABOVE 100 kV

( Clauses 7.1.1 andA-6.1 )

HIOHEST SYSTEM INSULATION LEVEL

VOLTAOE ------_-*_--__-____---~
r------
( PHASE-TO-PHASE ) Power-Frequency Test Voltage Impulse Test Voltage
VIII ( kV rms ) (kV peak )
(kVrms) r_-_-_*_-_-~ r_____h_____-_

Full Reduced Full Reduced

insulation insulation insulation insulation

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

100 185 150 450 380

123 230 185 550 450
145 275 230 650 550
185 450
170 325 275 750 650
230 550
245 460 395 1 050 950
360 850
325 750
300 510 1 175
460 1 050
3Y5 950
362 570 1 300
510 1175
460 1050
4-20 740 1 675
680 1550
630 1425
570 1 300
52.5 790 1 800
740 1 675
680 1 550
630 1425

8. GUIDE FOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

8.1 A general guidance for installation and operation is given in
Appendix A.

9. MARKING
9.1 Capacitor Units-The following information shall be given in the
rating plate of each capacitor unit:
a) Reference to Indian Standard as ‘ Ref ISS 9835 ‘;

9
fS : 9835- 1981

b) Manufacturer’s name or trade-mark;

c) Rated output in kvar;
d) Rated capacitance in microfarads;
e) Rated voltage, I’,;
f) Rated current, In;
g) Rated frequency in Hz;
h) Short-time voltage;
j) Upper limit of temperature category;
k) Insulation level;
m) Reference to self-healing design, for example, ‘SW:
n) Resistance of the discharge resistor, if built-in:
p) Internal fuses, if any; and
q) Total weight in kg.

9.1.1 A place shall be reserved for the mcasurcd capacitance (see 12).
This value may be indicated in one of the following ways:
a) as an absolute capacitance value which may replace the value of
rated capacitance; and
b) as a difference AC between measured and rated capacitance
indicated by symbols as follows:
$ + for AC between + 7.5 percent and + 4.5 percent
+ for AC between + 3.5 percent and + 1.5 percent
+ - for AC between + 1.5 percent and - 1.5 percent
- for AC between - 1.5 percent and - 4.5 percent
-- for AC between - 4.5 percent and - 7.5 percent

9.1.2 The insulation level shall be marked by means of two numbers

separated by a stroke the first number giving the rms value of the power-
frequency test voltage in kV and the second number giving the crest value
of the impulse test voltage in kV ( for example, 28175 ). For units which arc
not intended for exposed installation, the second number is replaced by a
hyphen ( for cxainple, 28/- ).

9.13 Tnformation, which is of importance for the safety of persons or

equipment, shall be stated either on the rating plate ( or on the rating plate
of the complete series capacitor ) or in an instruction sheet. In the latter
case, the rating plate ( or the rating plate of the complete series capacitor )
s!rall bear a reference to this instruction sheet.

10
 IS : 9835 - 1981

9.2 Complete Series Capacitor Equipment - The following information

shall be given on the series capacitor equipment rating plate if any, or in
an instruction sheet:
a) Manufacturer’s name or trade-mark;
b) Rated output in kvar;
c) Measured reactance of each phase;
d) Rated current;
e) Permissible current for IQ min;
f) Rated voltage;
g) Limiting voltage;
h) Type of gap; and
j) Insulation level with respect to earth.
9.2.1 If further information is given in an instruction sheet the ratmg
plate shall bear the refcrcncc to this instruction sheet.
9.2.2 If the capacitor consists of series connected modules, items (c), (f)
and (g) shall be related to each module.
9.3 The scrics capacitor? may also be marked with the ISI Certification
Mark.
r<OTk; - ‘l‘hc UFP of thr. ISI Ccrtilication Mark is governed by the provisions of the
Indian Stnndartls Institution ( Certification Marks ) ilct and the Rules and Regulations
made thcrrluldcr. ‘1‘11~ IS t Mark on products covered by an Indian Standard conveys
the ~ssurar~~v that thc,y lx~vr: bcrn pl-ocluccd to comply with the requirements of that
standard un&r :%lvcll-drlilicd sl-stem of inspection, testing and quality control which is
tlcviscd xrd sulx~rvibctl by ISI and opcratcd by the producer. IS1 marked products
xv also continuusly chcckrd by IS1 for conformity to that standard as a further
s&gu;:rd. I>ct.lils of conditions under which a licence for the use of the IS1
Ccrtilicatiwl Mnrk may be granted to manufacturers or processors, may be obtained
from the Indian Standards Institution.

10. TESTS

10.0 Standard Temperature for Testing - Unless otherwise spccificd the

ambient temperature for testing shall be in the range oi’ 15 to 35°C. If
corrections have to be made, the reference temperature shall be 27-j=2”C!.

10.1 Classification
10.1.1 Tq’pe Tc.~ts - The following tests shall constitute type tests:
4 Visual examination (see 11 );
b) Mcasurcmcnt of capacitance ( see 12 );
c) Test for capacitor losses ( SW 13 );
4 Short-time voltage and partial discharge test (see 14.2);
 Voltage test between terminals and container (WC 14.32, 14.3.3
and 14.3.4 );
Discharge test ( see 15);
Thermal stability test ( see 16);
Measurement of hot-spot temperature ( see 17 );
Discharge current withstand test on internal fuses ( see 18.1 );
Tests on fuses ( see 18.2, 18.3 and 18.4);
Test of internal discharge device ( see 19);
Self-healing test ( for self-healing metallized capacitor ) ( SW 20 );
and
Sealing test ( see 21).
10.1.1.1 Crireriu ,fnr npprond- Eleven samples shall be submitted for
testing together with the relevant data. The testing authority shall issue a
type approval certificate if the capacitors are found to comply with the
requirements of test given in 10.1.1.
10.1.1.2After visual examination all the samples shall be subjected to
the tests in the following manner:
Measurcmcnt of capacitance 1 Sample
Test for capacitor losses 1 Sample
Voltage test between terminals 1 Sample
Volta&c test between terminals and container 1 Sample
Discharge test 1 Sample
Thermal stability test 1 Sample
Measurement of hot-spot temperature 1 Sample
Test on fuses 1 Sample
Test of internal discharge device 1 Sample
Self-healing test ( for self-healing metallized capacitor ) 1 Sample
Sealing test 1 Sample
10.1.1.3 In case of failure of samples in one or more type tests, the test-
ing authority may call for fresh samples not exceeding twice the number of
original samples and subject them to the test(s) in which failure occurred.
If in repeated test(s) no lkilure occurs, the tests may bc considered to have
been satisfied.
10.12 Acceptnrzcc Tests - The following shall constitue acceptance tests:
a) Visual examination ( see 11);
b) Measurement of capacitance (see 12 );
c) Test for capacitor losses ( see 13 );

12
 IS : 9835 - 1951

d) Voltage test between terminals ( see 14.1);

e) Voltage test between terminals and container (see 14.3.1 );
f) Discharge current withstand test of internal fuses ( we 18.1 );
g) Test of internal discharge device ( see 19 ); and
h) Sealing test ( see 21).

10.1.2.1 Sampling scheme and criteria foracceptawe - A recommended

sampling plan and criteria for acceptance of tests is given in Appendix B.

10.1.3 Routine Tests - The following shall constitute routine tests:

a) Visual examination (see 11 );
b) Measurement of capacitance ( see 12 );
c) Test for capacitor losses ( see 13);
d) Voltage test between terminals ( see 14.1);
e) Voltage test between terminals and container ( see 14.3.1);
f) Discharge current withstand test of internal fuses (see 18.1);
g) Test of internal discharge device ( see 19 ); and
h) Sealing test ( sell 21 ).

11. VISUAL EXAMINATION

11.1 All capacitors shall be examined for finish and marking ( see 9 ).

12. MEASUREMENT OF CAPACITANCE

12.1 The capacitance shall be measured at 0.9 to 1.1 times the rated voltage
using a method which excludes errors due to harmonics and accessories,
such as resistors, reactors and blocking circuits in the measuring circuit.
Measurement at another voltage is permitted, provided that appropriate
correction factors are agreed to between the manufacturer and the
purchaser.

The capacitance measurements shall bc carried out after the other

routine tests given in 10.1.3. In order to reveal any change in capacitance
for example due to a puncture of an element or failure of an internal fuse
before the other routine tests, a preliminary capacitance measurement shall
be made.

12.2 The capacitance which may be a calculated value in case of banks shall
not differ from the rated capacitance by more than:
57.5 percent for units;
h5.0 percent for banks with a rating less than 10 Mvar per phase;
*3*0 percent for banks with a rating of 10 Mvar or more per phase.
IS : 9835 - 1981

Further, the capacitance shall not differ by more than:

3.0 percent between any two phases with a bank rating less
than 2 Mvar per phase;
I.0 percent between any two phases with a bank rating of
2 Mvar or more per phase.
12.3 Closer tolerances may be specified by the purchaser for capacitors in
more important transmission lines (see A-3.lj.

13. TEST FOR CAPACITOR LOSSES

13.0 The capacitor losses ( or tan 8 ) shall be measured at 0.9 to 1.1 times
the rated voltage using a method which exclude errors due to harmonics
and accessories, such as resistors, reactors, and blocking circuits in the
measuring circuit. Measurement at another voltage is permitted provided
that appropriate correcton factors are agreed to between the manufacturer
and the purchaser.
13.1 The requirements regarding capacitor losses, tolerances and reference
ambient temperatures are to be agreed to between the manufacturer and
the purchaser (set A-4.4).

14. VOLTAGE TESTS

14.1 Voltage Withstand Test (Between Terminals) - Every capacitor unit

shall be subjected for 10 s to a dc test, the test voltage being Yt -= I.55 V,
(= 1.1 42 V, but not less than 4.3 V,). There shall be no puncture or
flashover during the test ( see A-2 ).
14.1.1 For self-healing metallized capacitors, self-healing breakdowns are
allowed dzlring the test, but no significant changes in values of tan 8 and
capacitance measured before and after the voltage test are allowed.
14.1.2 A unit showing capacitance changes due to blown internal fuse(s)
may be included in the delivery only after an agreement between the
manufacturer and the purchaser.
14.1.3 If the capacitor units arc to bc retested when erected, a voltage
between 65 and 75 percent of V, is recommended.
14.2 Short-Time Voltage and Partial Discharge Test--The test voltages
applied during this test shall be substantially sinusoidal. TI:c test circuit
shail be suitably damped to reduce over-voltages due to transients as much
as possible.
14.2.1 After the capacitor unit has attained steady-state conditions at
rated output, an ac voltage equal to V, shall be applied once only to the
 IS : 9835 - 19811

capacitor for one second. The voltage shall then be reduced to I.6 V,, and
maintained for a period of 10 min. In the case of self-healing metallized
capacitors, this period shall be of 30 min.
14.2.2 The test cycle shall be made without voltage interruption. There
shall be no increase in partial discharge level at any time during the last
10 min period.
14.2.3 The method of measuring partial discharges shall be consistent
with IS : 6209-1971:‘.
14.2.4 Before and after the test, the capacitance shall be measured
according to 12 and the two measurements shall be corrected to the same
dielectric temperature. No significant change of capacitance shall be appa-
rent from these measurements and in any case it shall be less than the
change corresponding to a puncture of an element or to the blowing of a
fuse.
14.2.5 When interpreting the results of the measurements, following
factors shall be taken into account:
a) The reproducibility of the measurements; and
b) The fact that an internal change in the dielectric may cause a small
change of capacitance without puncture of any element of the
capacitor or blowing of an internal fuse having occurred.
14.2.6 The short time voltage test shall always be made on a complete unit.
The test for verifying the partial discharges may be insensitive if the capa-
citance tested is too large in relation to that for which the test apparatus is
designed. In this case, an agreement should be reached between the manu-
facturer and the purchaser regarding the testing of a smaller capacitor of
the same design and construction.

14.3 Voltage Test Between Terminals and Containers

14.3.0 Unless otherwise specified, the tests contained in this clause shall
be carried out in accordance with IS : 2071 (Part II)-19747.
14.3.1 at: Voltage Test ( Dry ) ( Rmtinc Test ) - Units having all tcrmi-
naIs insulated from the container shall be subjected for 10 s to a test voltage
applied between the terminals (joined together ) and the container.
14.3.1.1 The test voltage shall have a value corresponding to the
illsulation level of the unit as specified in Table 2. There shall be no
puncture or flashover during the test.
14.3.1.2 Units having one terminal permanently connected to the
container shall not be subjected to this test, but the insulation with respect
*Methods for partial discharge measurements.
tMctl>ods of high voltage testing: Part II Test procedures (f;rsr reckion 1,

!S
IS : 9835- 1981

to the container shall be dimensioned with a sufficient margin to provide

a dielectric strength higher than that between terminals, especially if internal
fuses are used, to avoid the risk of an insulation failure to the container
completely or partially bypassing the internal fuses.
14.32 UC V&age Test, Dry (Type Tesr) - Units having ail terminals
insulated from the container shall be subjected to a test according to 14.3.1
but the duration of the test shall be increased to one minute.
14.3.2.1 Units having one terminal permanently connected to the
container shall be subjected to the same test but the test unit shall consist
of the terminal bushing(s) and container ( without elements ).
14.3.2.2 Furthermore, the external insulation of units for indoor use
shall be subjected to a test for one minute taking the test voltage from co1
3 of Table 2, which corresponds to the values of test voltage chosen for the
test stated in 7.1. The test unit may consist of bushing(s) and container
( without elements). There shall be no puncture or flashover during the
test.
14.3.3 UC Voltage Test ( Wet ) ( Type Test ) - The external insulation of
units for outdoor USC shall be subjected to a test for one minute with
artificial rain. The test voltage shall be taken from co1 3 of Table 2
corresponding to the insulation level, that is, to the value of test voltage
chosen for the test stated in 7.1. The test unit may consist of bushing(s)
and container ( without elements ). There shall be no puncture or flashover
during the test.
14.3.4 Impulse Voltage Test ( Type Test) - Units having all terminals
insulated from the container shall be subjected to impulse test before the
ac voltage test specified in 14.3.2 and 14.3.3.
14.3.4.1 The impulse test shall be made with wave-form 1.2/50 ps
having a crest value taken from the co1 4 of Table 2 and corresponding to
the insulation level of the unit. The absence of failure during the test shall
be verified by the cathode-ray oscillograph which is used to record the
voltage and to check the wave-shape.
14.3.4.2 Five impulses of each polarity shall be applied between the
terminal (joined together ) ahd the container. In the case of a puncture,
or if flashover occurs at more than one impulse of a series of five impulses
of the same polarity, the unit shall be considered as not having passed the
test. If one flashover occurs in a series of five impulses, the test shall bc
extended by applying ten additional impulses of the same polarity. If no
further flashover occurs, the unit shall be considered as having passed the
test.
14.3.4.3 Units with one terminal permanently connected to the con-
tainer whether this container is intended to be earthed or to be externally

16
 IS : 9835- 1981

insulated, and units not intended for exposed installation shall not be
subjected to this test.

15. DISCHARGE TEST

15.1 The capacitor unit shall bc charged to a voltage of 2/ 2 V,, and dis-
charged through a circuit which satisfies the following conditions:
a) The peak value of the discharge current shall not be less than
120 times the rated ( rms ) current of the capacitor unit; and
b) The decrement of the discharge current shall be as agreed to
between the manufacturer and the purchaser in conformity with
the scrvicc conditions.
15.1.1 This discharge shall be repeated 10 times at intervals of 5 seconds.
A longer interval may be agreed to between the manufacturer and the
purchaser.
151.2 Furthermore, the same unit shall be subjected to a voltage of
d/z Vin,, and then discharge through a circuit having a negligible im-
pedance. This discharge shall be performed once only, immediately after
the preceding discharges.
15.1.3 As quickly as possible after the last discharge, and preferably
within 10 seconds, an ac voltage of 1.6 Vn shall be applied and maintained
for 10 min t for self-healing metallized capacitors this period shall be of
30 min). There shall be no increase in partial discharge level during the
last 10 min.
15.1.4 Before and after the test, the capacitance shall be measured accord-
ingly and the two measurements shall be corrected to the same dielectric
temperature. No significant change of capacitance shall be apparent from
these measurements. When interpreting the results of the measurements,
the factors stated in 14.2.5 shall be taken into account.
15.1.5 External fuses intended for units or groups of units shall be
subjected to the discharge test either when tested together with the unit(s)
or separately ( see 18.2 ).
15.1.6 The discharge current shall be measured according to IS : 2071
( Part II)- 1974”:. The discharge test shall always be made on a complete
capacitor unit. If the partial discharge measurement can not be made
with satisfactory accuracy on a complete unit (see also 14.2.6) an
additional discharge test including partial discharge measurement shall be
made on a model unit.
15.1.7 If the calculated value of the capacitor discharge current which
is likely to occur when the overvoltage protector operates is substantially
different from 100 or 50 times the rated current in the case of overvoltage
*Methods of high voltage testing: Part II Test procedures (Jirst revision).

17
IS : 9835- 1981

protectors Type A and B respectively (see A-5.2 ) the value of the discharge
current spccifizd for the test shall be clianged by agreement for type A to
1.2 times and for Type B to 2.4 times the first amplitude of the dischnrgc
current when the :;pnrk-gap operates.
15.1.8 If the capacitors in service arc expected to be subjected to frequent
discharges, the number of damped discharges in the above test may, by
agreement. be increased to 20.

16. THERMAL STABILITY TEST

16.1 The thermrd stability test is intended to ensure the thermal stability of
the capacitor under prolonged overload conditions within the limits
permitted in 5.1. The capacitor chosen for this test shall have output as
near!y ac possible equal to the rated output, and value of tan 8 at the upper
limit of the manufact:lring series. External fuse;, if used, shall be tested
together with the sample unit or separately, if required by the purchaser.
16.2 The capacitor shall be placed in still air in an enclosure where the
ambient air temperature is from 3 to 7°C higher than the upper limit of
the tcmperaturc cdtcgory. The mounting position of the unit shall
correspond to the service conditions. Throughout the test, the ambient
air temperature shall be maintained as stable as possible and checked by
means of a thermometer having a thermal time constant of approximately
one hour.
16.3 After all parts of the capacitor ( and the external fuse, if any) have
attained the temperature of the ambient air, the capacitor shall bc subjected
for a period of at least 48 h, to an ac voltage of substantially sinusoidal
form, The magnitude of the voltage shall be adjusted throughout the test
so that the I’enctive power of the capacitor is equal to I ,44 times its rated
output. During the last 10 h, the tangent of the loss angle ( see 13 ) or the
temperature of the container near the top shall be measured every two
hours and throughout this period of 10 h the tangent of the loss angle
shall nl>t incrcasc by more than 1 x JO-4 or the temperature rise shall not
increase by more than 1°C. Should a greater change be observed, the test
shall be continued unti! cithcr stabilization or breakdown occurs.
16.4 Before arid after the test, the capacitance shall be measured according
to 12 within the standard temperature range for testing and the two
mcasurcmcnts shall be corrected to the same dielectric temperature. No
significant ch:mgc of c<lpscitancc shall be apparent from these measure-
ments when intcrprcting thvn results of the measurements, the factors stated
in 14.2 shall bc taken into account.
16.5 When checking whether the capacitor loss or temperature conditions
are satisfied, fliictuations of voltage, frequency and ambient air temperature

18
 IS : 9835- 1981

during the test shall bc taken into account. For this reasons, it is advisable
to plot these parameters and the tangent of the loss angle and the
temperature rise as a function of time.

17. MEASUREMENT OF HOT-SPOT TEMPERATURE

17.1 The test shall be made only on an agreement between the manufacturer
and the purchaser, it need not be made if the highest ambient air tempera-
ture is at least 20°C lower than the upper limit of the temperature category
for which the capacitor is desighed. Units intended for this test shall have
passed in the capacitance and loss measurement test.

17.2 The hot-spot temperature shall be measured in the steady-state

condilion at rated power at an ambient temperature equal to the upper
limit of the tempzraturc category in still air. The temperature shall be
measured by, for example, thermocouples placed inside the capacitor
bctwecn two elements, in at least two positions expected to be near the hot-
spot. I:or individual units, the temperature rise is regarded as being
proportional to the product of the reactive .power and tan 8, and the
tcmperaturc rise of any single unit, detcrmincd In this way, shall not exceed
the limit agreed upon.

17.3 This test may be carried out on any unit whose elements and container
insulation have thermal characteristics identical with those of the units to
be delivered and whose internal discharge resistors ( if any) have equal
losses.

18. TEST ON FUSES

18.0 In addition to the tests described below, external fuses shall meet the
requirements specified in the relevant Indian Standard for fuses, when
applicable.

18.1 Discharge Current Withstand Test of Internal Fuses-This routine

test is intended to reveal manufacturing defects of internal fuses. The
inherent capability of the internal fuses to withstand discharge currents is
checked by the type test specified in 15. Units equipped with internal
fuses shall be subjected to one undamped dischnrgc from a voltage of at
I.7 V, ( = 1.2 q? V,, ) ( see 15 and A-2.3 ).

Before and after the test, the capacitance silall bc measured and no
significant change shall be apparent.

18.1.1 A unit showing capacitance change due to blown internal f’use(s)

may be included in the delivery only after agreement between the manu-
facturcr and the purchaser.
IS : 9835 - 1981

18.2 Current Withstand Tests of External Fuses - External fuses intended

for units shall be in the circuit ( and thermal enclosure ) during the discharge
test ( see 15 ) and, if agreed to between the manufacturer and the purchaser,
also during the thermal stability test ( see 16 ).
18.2.1 External fuses for groups of units shall be type tested separately
under equal ambient conditions as described above. The electrical condi-
tions for the fuse shall be such as if the complete group of units with fuse
were being tested.
18.3 Test of the Current-Time Characteristics of Fuses - The manufacturer
shall submit to the purchaser the current-time characteristics of the fuses
in question within the relevant current range, for example, the limit curves
which take into account the inherent spread in properties and the influence
of different initial temperatures. This applies to both internal and external
fuses ( see A-5.1 ).
18.4 Breaking Capacity Test of Fuses - Under consideration.

19. TEST OF INTERNAL DISCHARGE DEVICE

19.1 The resistance of the internal discharge device, if any, shall be checked
either by a resistance measurement or by measuring the self-discharging
rate ( see 6.1).

210. SELF-HEALING TEST FOR SELF-HEALING METALLIZED

CAPACITORS
20.1 The capacitor shall be subjected for 10 seconds to a dc voltage of
Vt = 1.55 V, but not less than 4.3 Vn.
20.2 If fewer than five breakdowns occur during this time, the voltage shall
be increased slowly until five breakdowns have occurred since the beginning
of the test.
20.3 After this, the voltage shall be decreased to 0.8 times its initial value
( that is, 0.8 Vt or 3.44 V,) and maintained for 10 seconds. No further
breakdown shall occur after decreasing the voltage.
20.4 The capacitance and the capacitor losses shall be measured before and
after this test. No significant change in these values shall be allowed.
When comparing the results of capacitance and loss measurements
obtained, the factors stated in 14.2 shall be taken into account.

21. SEALING TEST

21.1 A sealing test shall be carried out to demonstrate that the impregnant
does not leak from the capacitor. The test shall be carried out at 80 f 5°C
for a period of 3 hours, if any failure is observed, the tests shall be repeated.

20
 IS : 9835 - 1981

APPENDIX A
(Cluuses7.1.1, 8.1, 12.3, 13.1, 14.1, 15.1.7, 18.1 and 15.3)
GUIDE FOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

A-l. CHOICE OF VOLTAGE RATINGS AND RATED CURRENT

A-l.1 Voltage Rating - The requirements for the dielectric strength of the
insulation between terminals are specified by two principal voltages:
a) The rated voltage V, which relates to normal operation and which
is calculated from rated current and rated capacitance, and
b) The short-time voltage V, which relates to transient voltages due
to fault or abnormal conditions in the system.

No fixed relation between V, and V, is assumed in this standard in

order to avoid limitations concerning the design of the capacitor.

A-1.2 Rated Current-The rated current 1, of the bank is chosen in

relation to the results of an analysis of the expected load cycle. Since for
the capacitance of the bank a certain minus tolerance is allowed ( see 12 ),
the anticipated through-current should be dccrcased by an amount corres-
ponding to the tolerance in question to avoid an excessive voltngc across
the capacitor. It should furthermore be taken into account that, when series
connection of units is used, the voltage distribution may not be uniform,
especially when groups connected in series contain a small number of units
in parallel. The capacitance is also dependent on the temperature of
capacitor dielectric.

A-1.2.1 The rated current I, of the bank should be selected on the basis
of the following three values, making allowance for the minus tolerance of
the bank capacitance:
a) The highest through current, resulting from the load cycle analysis,
which is sustained for one or more periods not exceeding 10 min
divided by 1.50,
b) The highest through current, resulting from the load cycle analysis,
which is sustained during one or more periods of more than
10 min but not exceeding 30 min, divided by 1.35,
c) The highest through current, resulting from the load cycle analysis,
which is sustained during one or more periods of more than
30 min but not exceeding 8 hours, divided by 1.10.

A-1.2.2 Furthermore, f, shall be SO chosen that the average output of

the capacitor over any period of 24 h does not exceed the limits given
in 5.1.

21
IS : 9835 - 1981

A-1.2.3 If an analysis of the expected load cycle should not be practica-

blc following the procedure laid down above, the rated current I, shall be
chosen by an agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
A-1.2.4 If the overload requirements are more severe than the value
mentioned in 5.1, this may influence the choice of In.
A-l.3 Short-Time Voltage - The choice of the short-time voltage V, depends
on the type of overvoltage protector and its limiting voltage l’ri,.
A-1.3.1 A safety margin between Firm and V, is required. V, should
not be lower than:
a) 1.2 Vrim for capacitors with protectors containing a gap with sus-
taincd arc,
b) 1.3 Viim for capacitors with protectors containing a gap with
repetitive arc ( self-extingirishing gap ), and
c) 1.3 times the value according to 5.2 for capacitors without
protector.
A-1.3.2 If the sparkover voltage of the overvoltage protector is dependent
on the air density, L’lim is understood to correspond to the conditions
resultin!: in the highest sparkover voltage, that is, to the highest air pressure
and the lowest tcmpcrature. Also. the tolerance in the sparkovcr voltage
on the overvoltage protector shall bc taken into account when considering
Vllrll.
h-1.3.3 l-01. bi;;L,liCr scricb ballks in di:,tribution systems and whcrc the
ovcrvoliages due to failure arc cxpcctcd to bc relatively small as compared
with the rntcd voltage of the capacitor-, it may bc more economical not to
use an overvollagc protector and consequcntlv to choose V, accordingly.

A-2. EXPLANATIONS RECARDlNG THE VOLTAGE TESTS

BETWEEN TERMINALS AND THE DISCHARGE TEST

A-2.1 Volfage Withstand Test -The purpose of this test is to detect possi-
ble material aud manufacturing defects ( see 14.1 ).
A-2.2 Short-Time Voltage Test -- This test is intended to verify that the
capacitor c,ul withstand short-time voltage applications up to the maximum
value which c;~!z occur in the system under fault conditions ( se<’ 14.2 >.
A-2.2.1 It is important that, after Such overvoltage applications, any
partial discharge that may have been set up in the dielectric wili cease at’tel
the sllort-time overvoltage has disappeared. The factor I.6 fixed for the
voltage in the 1)srtial discharge measurement takes into account with a
certain saftey mztrgiu:
a) The permissible overloads according to 5.1,

22
 I§ : 9835- 1981

b) The non-uniform voltage distribution in series-connected units

( A-3.1 ), and
c) The fact that the capacitance in some degree depends on the
temperature of the capacitor dielectric ( A-3.2 ).
A-2.3 Discharge Test - This test ( SW 15) is intended to check the ability
of the capacitor to withstand the mechanical and electrical stre_sses caused
by the discharge occurring when the overvoltage protector b , passes the
capacitor. Checking of the partial discharges is important a$!so after this
test ( A-2.2 ).
A-2.3.1 Discharges may also occur along a palh by passing the normal
damping circuit, for example, a puncture of &shover in one of the several
parallel-connected~ units, a flashovcr between capacitor groups, flashover by
passing the damping circuit, and a fault to platform. For this reason an
undamped discharge test is also prescribed in 15.
A-2.3.2 lf, in special cases, the test conditions of 15 xc not adequate to
meet the practical conditions of the USC of the protective equipment, altera-
tions may be agreed to between the mnnufacturcr and the purchaser.

A-3. CA?ACITANCE

A-3.1 Capacitance Tolerance - If the net reactances in the three phases of

Zinc arc different, di!fering phase voltages will appear at the rcceiking end of
the line and the neutral point of the voltage system will be displaced. This
may give rise to undesirable effects in transformers and 0th~ apparatus.
If the neutral is carthcd, earth currents may occur.
A-3.1.1 The rcquircmcnts of 12.2 allow a certain diKcrcncc between the
phase capacitances. However, for the reasons mentioned, it is recommcn-
ded that the capacitance difrerence should be as small as possible. Tn
banks consisting of many units, this can be easily attained by distributing
the units suitably over the phases.

A-3.1.2 If capacitor units, or groups of units, arc connected in series, they

should also bc so arranged as to have the smallest possihlc capacitance
diffcrenccs between the groups connected in scrics. By using the capacitance
differences symbols according to 9.1, n suficiently accurate grouping will
easily bc nchicved by summing the signs in each series group.
A-3.2 Capacitance Variation with Temperature - Dcpcnding on the design
of the capacitors their capacitance will vary more or less with tempcraturc.
A-3.2.1 For series capacitors which often have high variations in output
this may cause a further variation of capacitance, as the tcmperaturc which
governs the capacitance is the ambient temperature plus the internal
temperature rise.

23
IS : 9835 - 1981

A-3.2.2 Attention should be paid to the fact that the capacitance may
change very rapidly when cold capacitors are switched on. This pheno-
menon is prominent at low temperatures when the warming up of the
capacitors and thus the capacitance values may be unbalanced. This may
cause undue functioning of protective equipment.

A-4. OPERATING TEMPERATURE

A-4.1 General -Special attention should be paid to the operating
temperature of the capacitor because this has a great influence on its life.
In this respect, the temperature of the hot-spot is a determining factor, but
it is impossible to measure this temperature directly in practical operation
( see also 17 ).
A-4.1.1 If the capacitor dielectric reaches a temperature below the lower
limit of its category, there can be danger of initiating partial discharges in
the dielectric, if the capacitor is energized.
A-4.2 Installation-Capacitors shall be so placed that there is adequate
dissipation, by radiation and convection, of the heat produced by the
capacitor losses.
A-4.2.1 The ventilation of the operating room and the arrangement of
the capacitor units shall provide good air circulation around each unit.
This is of special importance for units mounted in rows one above another.
A-4.2.2 The tcmpcraturc of capacitors subjected to radiation from the
sun or from any surface at high temperature will be increased. Depending
on the cooling air temperature, the intensity of the cooling and the intensity
and duration of the radiation, it may be necessary to choose one of the
following remedies:
;I>to protect the capacitors from the radiations;
b) to choose a capacitor designed for a higher ambient temperature
( for example, category -lo/$-45’C instead of -10/+4O”C) or
which is otherwise suitably designed; and
to employ capacitors with rated current higher than that resulting
from A-1.2.
A-4.3 Tropical _. Conditions - Capacitors_ for +45”C are suitable for the
majority of applications under tropical conditions. In some locations,
however, the ambient temperature may be such that a capacitor for +50X
is required. This may also be the case where the capacitors are subjected
to the radiation of the sun for several hours (for example, in desert
territories ) even though the ambient temperature is not excessive (WC A-4.2).
A-4.3.1 In exceptional cases, the ambient temperature may be higher
than +5O”C maximum or +45”C daily average. Where it is impossible to
improve the cooling conditions, capacitors of special design or having a
higher rated current shall be used.

24
 IS : 9835 - 1981

A-4.4 Evaluation of the Losses- If losses are to be evaluated, it is

recommended to use as a reference temperature the average temperature
with due regard to the output of the capacitor for different periods of the
year or the service period. It is also possible to define losses at several
temperatures and calculate their mean value.

A-5. PROTECTIVE AND SWITCHING DEVICES

A-5.1 Internal and External Fuses - The capacitor fuses are in principle
of two kinds; internal fuses for each element or group of elements, and
external fuses for each unit or group of units. The latter are as a rule
provided with an indicating device by means of which a faulty unit may
easily be found.
A-5.1.1 The purpose of the internal fuses is to disconnect a punctured
element and thus ensure an undisturbed service of the bank in case of such
a minor fault.
A-5.1.2 The purpose of the external fuses is to disconnect a unit if this
should have becomc partly or completely short-circuited. The blowing of
an external fuse may necessitate disconnection of the bank especially if there
is only a small number of units directly in parallel.
A-5.1.3 If relay protection is arranged for internal faults in the bank, for
cxnmple, unbalance protection, it is recommended that this bc set to trip if
the overvoltage on the sound units exceeds 10 percent (set 5.1).
A-5. t.4 The fuse characteristics should bc properly coordinated with the
relay protection, that is, the fuses should blow before the relay operates.
A-5.1.5 The fuses, both internal and external, should be designed to
work properly and at reasonably low line current. When considering the
limit for this current, due consideration should be paid to the requirement
of the discharge test ( see 15 ).
A-5.2 Overvoltage Protector - Two categories of safety gaps for bypassing
a series capacitor are used in overvoltage protectors:
Type A- gaps with sustained arc, and
Type B - gaps with repetitive arc ( self-extinguishing gaps ).
The choice between Types A and B is governed by the size of the
capacitor bank, by the magnitude of the expected f.ault currents and the
probability of their occurrence, by the stability and the configuration of the
system and by economic considerations.
A-5.2.1 The following performance is assumed for these two categories:
a) Type A - If the gap sparks over due to an excessive line current,
an arc is sustained until the voltage is removed from the

25
IS : 9835- 1981

capacitor either by de-energizing the line or by closing a bypass

switch. Further the arcing of the gap, the capacitor voltage is
limited to a voltage the crest value of which should not exceed
2/ 2 VliIn. The capacitor is subjected to a discharge transient
once only at every operation of the gap. The peak value of the
discharge current should be limited by suitable means so as not
to exceed 100 times the rated (rms) current of the capacitor.
b) Type B--Means are provided, for example, pneumatic or
magnetic blow-out, extinguish the arc at current zero, thus
permitting repeated sparkover of the gap during the time the
line fault exists. For finally extinguishing the arc, it is not
necessary to de-energize the line or to close a bypass switch.
For this reason. in many cases a lower gap setting may be
chosen than with Type A gaps. During the arcing of the gap,
however, the capacitor may be subjected to higher voltages with
respect to the initial sparkover voltage than with Type A, and
also to rcpeatcd discharges. For this reason, the peak value of the
discharge current should not exceed 50 times the rated (rms)
current of the capacitor.
For both types of gaps, other factors - such as the discharge current
capability of the bypass switch-may call for limiting the discharge
current to a lower level than the values indicated above. In such a case, a
lower current may bc applied in the discharge test, subject to a special
agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser. On the other
hand, iT all components in the discharge pclth permit higher currents than
indicated above, higher charge currents may be permissible and the current
applied during the discharge test should be raised correspondingly. This
shall be as agreed to between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
A-5.3 Other Devices - For large capacitor banks, a bypass switch is used
to short-circuit the capacitor in the event of prolonged operation of the
safety gap or in the event of prolonged overvoltage not sufficient to cause
the gap to operate ( for limits, .W 5.2 ). Such overvoltages may be pro-
duced by overloads or by sub-synchronous oscillations in the system
(see A-7). The discharge current through the switch should be limited to
the extent rccommendcd for safety gaps Type A given in A-5.2.
A-5.3.1 The bypass switch should withstand the stresses occurring when
switching the capacitor and due regard should be paid to the risk of
restrikes.
A-5.3.2 For inspection and maintenance of large banks, isolators should
be provided to disconnect the bank without interrupting the operation of
the system.
A-5.3.3 To avoid sustained voltage increase on parts of the bank due to
failure of the dielectric or flashovers, unbalance protection for each bank

26
 IS : 9835- 1981

may be used. Since some types of fault to the platform insulated from
earth cannot be detcctcd either by the unbalance protection, or by the
relays at the ends of the circuit involved, in addition a fault-to-platform
protection may be used.
A-5.4 Protection Diagrams -- Some typical protection diagrams are shown
in Fig. 1.

A-6. CHOICE OF INSULATION LEVELS

A-6.1 The insulation level of a capacitor bank shall be chosen in accordance
with that of the system to which the bank will be connected, from the
Tables 2 and 3. The factor 1.7 u;ed in 7.1.1 takes into account the permis-
siblc ovcrlo:ld according to 5.1, the non-uniforln voltage distribution in
series-conncctcd units ( SW A-3.1 and A-5.1 ) and the fact that the capacit-
ance in some dcgrcc dcpcnds on the temperature of the dielectric A-3.2.
A-6.1.1 A clear distinction should bc drawn between tile insulation level
of the bank and that of the units. The following possibilities should be
considered:
a) The insulation lcvcl of the units, based on the highest voltage that
can occur between terminals and container of any unit in the bank,
is not less than that of the bank. Extra insulation ( external to
the units ) need not then be employed,
b) The insulation level of the units is less than that of the bank.
Extra insulation ( external to the units ) with respect to earth for
metal supporting structures not at earth potential, and between
series-connected units, if any, shall be used. Unlcsr the voltage
distribution between the units is known, all cxtcrnal insulation
should correspond to the insulation level of the bank. If, however,
the voltage distribution is known, test voltages should be chosen
in accordance with 7.
A-6.1.2 Some parts of the damping circuit shall, in normal operation,
have a very low voltage across its terminals and to surrounding metal
work. When the overvoltage protector operates, thcsc parts may be
subjec{cd to high voltage surges, which must be considered when determin-
ing the insulation level.

A-7. DISTURBING PHENOMENA

A-7.1 General --..--The natural frequency of a system containing a large
series capacitor is gcncrally below the service frequency. This entails the
possibility that resonance phenomena at a sub-synchronous frequency may
occur under certain conditions. Since the probability of the occurrence
of such phenomena depends on many circumstances, each case should be
studied separately.

27
IS : 9835- 1981

IA RAN\< SIZE Oi THE OROER Ia OAVK SIZFI CF- THC ORDER

,
OF 1’10 kvar C’F 2 I.licr

i I Lb I I

i---.-__._ __.-- -.-._. _.. 1

‘C BANK SIZE LARGER TH4h 10 MW

1. Capacitor 9. Current transformer ( unbalance, suh-

2. Isolator harmonic and overload protection )
3. Bypass isolator 10. Current transformer ( fault-to-plntlbrm
4(a). Discharge device ( voltage transformer ) protection )
4(b). Discharge reactor ( if any) 11. Damping reactor
5. Safety gap 12. Damping resistor
6. Bypass circuit breaker or load switch 13. Additional ( if any ) or alternative
7. Current transformer (safety-gap pro- damping reactor
tcction ) 14. Additional ( if any) or alternative
8. Current transformer ( unbalance pro- damping resistor
tection ) 15. Platform ( insulted from earth )
FIG. 1 TYPICAL PROTECTION SCHEMES
(ONLY ONE PHASESHOWN)
28
 IS : 9835 - 1981

A-7.2 Ferro-Resonance - This phenomenon may occur when an unloaded

transformer or a shunt reactor is switched on a series-compensated system
during light load particularly for following load rejection. Due to
saturation effects the inrush current may initiate sustained resonant
oscillations with a sub-harmonic frequency. Due to the increased reactance
of the series capacitor at sub-harmonic frequencies, disturbing voltage
fluctuations and in certain cases abnormal voltages for the capacitor and
the network may result.

A-7.2.1 The following should be considered as possible remedies:

a) the use of a device sensitive to sub-synchronous frequencies to
close the bypass switch temporarily;
b) the use of bypass switches when the load current is below a
predetermined value; .
c) in exceptional cases, reduction of the capacitor reactance; and
d) for small banks, a damping resistor in parallel with the capacitor
(the use of such resistors is however restricted by their losses).
A-7.3 Self-Excitation of Motors -During starting of an asynchronous
motor, its inductance increases and the frequency of the rotor current
decreases. At a certain speed, this frequency becomes equal to the natural
frequency of the system. A resonant current may arise which excites the
motor to act as an asynchronous generator when its speed corresponding
to resonance is somewhat exceeded. At this stage, the system delivers
energy at the service frequency, which tends to accelerate the machine; the
machine returns energy to the system at a sub-synchronous frequency,
which tends to slow it down.
A-7.3.1 These opposite forces may cause strong vibrations in the motor
while it remains at reduced speed and heavy low-frequency currents to flow
through the series capacitor. Similar phenomena may be encountered
when starting synchronous machines. In any case, however, the probabi-
lity of the occurrence of these phenomena is very small if the generating
power of the system is large in relation to that of the machine or if
sufficient damping by other loads is present. The same remedies should be
considered as mentioned for ferro-resonance in A-7.2.

A-7.4 Hunting - Hunting may occur between different generators or

between generator and synchronous machines at a sudden change of load.

A-7.4.1 Hunting means sustained periodic variations of the rotor speed

from the synchronous speed. The machine operates alternately as motor
or generator when the rotor is behind or ahead of its synchronous position.
This phenomenon is governed by the electrical characteristics of the system
and the electrical and mechanical characteristics of the machines and their
regulators.

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IS : 9835 - 1981

A-7.4.2 The tendency towards hunting may be increased by the series

capacitor. Resistors connected to the capacitor are not an appropriate
remedy. Hunting may limit the degree of series compensation obtainable.
A-7.5 Periodically Varying Load - If the load varies periodically, the voltage
fluctuations may bc amplified by a series capacitor. Such a situation may
be encountered, for example, when a big motor is driving a frame saw mill,
which represents a periodically varying torque.
A-7.6 Relay Protection of the System - Attention should be paid to the
fact that a series capacitor may disturb the working of relays used for the
protection of the system, especially impedance protection. Since a remedy
which is satisfactory in all cases is not yet available, this problem should
be studied in each particular case.
A-7.7 Attenuation of Carrier-Frequency Transmission - Series capacitor
banks may increase the attenuation of the carrier-frequency transmission
over a line unless the discharge current damping circuit of the capacitor
has been designed with due regard to the carrier frequency.

APPENDIX B
(Clause 10.1.2.1 )
SAMPLING PLAN FOR SERIES CAPACITORS FOR
POWER SYSTEMS

B-l. SCALE OF SAMPLING

B-l.1 Lot - All the series capacitors of the same rating manufactured from
the same material under similar conditions of production shall be grouped
together to constitute a lot.
B-l.2 The number of series capacitors to be selected from each lot shall
depend upon the size of the lot and shall be in accordance with co1 1 and
2 of Table 4.
B-1.2.1 The series capacitors shall be selected from the lot at random.
In order to ensure the randomness of selection, procedure given in
IS : 4905-1968* may be followed.

B-2. NUMBER OF TESTS AND CRITERIA FOR CONFORMITY

B-2.1 The series capacitors selected at random according to co1 1 and 2 of

Table 4 shall be subjected to each of the acceptance tests. A series capaci-
tor failing to satisfy the requirement of any of these tests shall be termed
*Methods for random sampling.

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 IS : 9835- 1981

as defective. The lot shall be considered as conforming to these require-

ments if the number of defectives found in the sample is less than or equal
to the corresponding permissible number given in co1 3 of Table 4, other-
wise the lot shall be rejected.

TABLE 4 SAMPLE SIZE AND PERMISSIBLE NUMBER OF DEFECTIVES

(Clauses B-1.2 and B-2.1 )

LOT SIZE SAMPLE SIZE PERMISSIBLE NO. OF

DEFECTIVES

(1) (2) (3)

up to 50 5 0
51 to 100 8 0
101 to 300 13 1
301 to 500 20 1
501 to 1 000 32 2
1 001 and above 50 3

31
INDIAN STANDARDS

ON
POWER CAPACITORS

IS :
1709-1960 Fixed capacitors for fans
1885 (Part XL11 )-1977 Electrotechnical vocabulary: Part XL11 Power capacitors

2834-1981 Shunt capacitors for power systems (jut revision )

2993-1975 Motor capacitors (first revision )

9251-1979 Capacitors for inductive heat generating plants operating at frequencies
between 40 and 24 000 Hz
9348-1979 Coupling capacitor and capacitor divider