Technical Information

Unearthed (IT) Systems

The basis for reliable power supply

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Insulation monitoring in unearthed (IT) systems

Electrical safety for people and machines

Insulation resistance is a very important factor when protective goals are

considered.
Without adequate insulation resistance:

• Protection against direct and indirect contact is not guaranteed;

• Protective arrangements against over-current or fault currents will frequently
lead to interruptions of operation;
• Short-circuit and earth fault currents may cause fires and destroy parts of the
plant;
• High costs are incurred due to interruptions of production/operation, damages
and losses;

Advantages of an unearthed (IT) systems

Higher operational safety

Only a capacitive current Iel flows, which is caused by the system leakage
capacitance if an earth fault occurs.
The fuse does not blow hence continuous power supply.
Better accident prevention
The fault current is limited by the body impedance, earthing resistance and the high
impedance of the earth fault loop.
Increased fire protection
A small current will flow limited by the system leakage capacitance
Higher permissible earthing resistance
Higher earthing resistance is permitted (IEC60364-4-41)

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Factors which influence the insulation resistance

Electrical

• Static over voltage

• Transient over voltage
• Lightning
• Over load
• Voltage form

Mechanical

• Shock, impact
• Flaws, bends
• Vibration
• Penetration of foreign objects

Environment

• Climate
• Moisture, temperature
• Chemical influences
• Pollution, dust, oil
• Aggressive exhaust air, fumes
• Ageing

Other effects

• Animals like rodents

• Plants and roots
• Incorrect connections

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Consequences of an earth fault

Hazards to people because of:

• High touch voltages
• Danger of injury

High costs, because of:

• Unavailability of staff due to injuries
• Interruption of operation and production
• Equipment/material damage

Fire and explosion hazards, because of:

• Arcing
• Heat

Interruptions to operation/production, because of:

• Unintentional disconnection of power supply
• Defective equipment
• Control malfunctions

Advanced information in the unearthed system

It is critically important to have early information about a fall in the insulation resistance.
With an insulation monitoring device, you will have the required information in advance.

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Operating principle of insulation monitoring devices

The insulation monitoring device is connected between the active conductors and earth
(protective conductor), and it superimposes a measuring voltage on the system. Depending
on the system to be monitored, this can be a direct voltage or a pulsating voltage. If an
insulation fault occurs, the measuring circuit is closed and a small measuring current will
flow. This measuring current is proportional to the insulation resistance and it is evaluated
by the device‘s electronic system. For pure DC systems, some times the passive UG
measuring principle is used: this evaluates the voltage displacement between system and
earth.

Reliability of measurement

Modern systems contain a large spectrum of interference which can lead to erraneous
measurement of the insulation resistance. However, thanks to the use of sophisticated
measurement techniques and carefully selected components, BENDER A-ISOMETERS® are
able to filter out interferences and to measure the insulation resistance accurately. This is
exemplified by the AMP measurement process, which is now used in all floating (IT)
systems, particularly in those with frequency converters.

IT systems – The basis for reliable power supply in critical areas

The advantages of sophisticated industrial systems can only be of use, if high availability of
power supplies and time and cost effective fault location and clearance is guaranteed.
Already when selecting the appropriate power supply system and the associated protective
and monitoring devices, the basis for reliable personnel protection and protection of
property and fault-free operation can be established.
Electrical safety for power supplies A reliable EMC-friendly electrical installation ensuring
the highest degree of safety for persons and equipment is of primary importance for all the
persons responsible for industrial systems, hospitals and office buildings.
The safety concept for electrical installations therefore must
• ensure the safety of both personnel and equipment
• improve the operating continuity
• contribute to the efficiency of the electrical system.

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In order to achieve this, power supply systems and the associated protective and monitoring
equipment should be carefully selected to allow
• comprehensive protection of people and the electrical system against hazards caused by
electric current
• fast indication and response to critical operating conditions in electrical installations
• the reduction of maintenance costs and expenses due to failures
• equipment data management according to customer requirements.

How to choose the right power supply system

The following aspects should be considered when selecting the appropriate power supply
system and the associated protective measures in accordance with
IEC 60364-4-41:
• likelihood of insulation faults;
• basic protection and fault protection;
• continuity of power supply;
• technical and economic possibilities;
• values that proved to be successful in practice.

A detailed description of the power supply systems with earth connection is given in IEC
60364-3.The three main types of distribution systems are the TN system, the TT system and
the IT system. In TN systems, one point is directly earthed; the exposed conductive parts of
the installation are connected to that point by protective conductors.
In TT systems, also one point is directly earthed; the exposed conductive parts of the
installation are connected to earth electrode which are electrically independent of the earth
electrodes of the system. In IT systems (be careful not to mix up the term IT systems which
means isolated systems with information technology systems which are also called IT
systems) all active parts either are insulated from earth or one point is connected to earth
through a sufficiently high impedance. The exposed conductive parts of the electrical
installation either are earthed individually or collectively.

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In order to guarantee sufficient protection of persons and property, always the coordination
of the earth connection and the characteristics of protective conductors and the type of
distribution system is required.
The permissible protective measures are specified in IEC 60364-4-41. In earthed systems
(TN,TT systems), usually residual current devices (RCD) and over-current protective device
are used, whereas in IT systems insulation monitoring devices are used almost everywhere.
ure 1: Types of systems according to IEC 60364-3
On principle, in electrical installations, the protection of persons must be high on the priority
list. But more and more importance also is attached to the availability of electrical energy.
The following aspects should be considered when the electrical installation is disconnected
due to an insulation fault:

Persons are at risk, for example, due to

• a sudden failure of the lighting system;
• disconnection of equipment which is intended to guarantee operating safety.

Risk of economic loss due to

• high costs incurred due to interruption to production, especially in areas where
restarting is tedious and expensive;
• data loss
• increased expenses due to disturbances and destruction in installations or
equipment.
Moreover, sensitive loads can be disturbed by high fault currents.
Disconnection may cause over-voltages and/ or electromagnetic influences which may lead
to functional disturbances or even to damage to sensitive devices. Therefore, with regard to
the availability of the power supply, in particular, the behaviour of power supply systems in
case of a first fault is of importance.

Comparison between earthed and unearthed power supply systems

IT systems (unearthed systems) either are supplied from an isolating transformer or an

independent voltage source, such as a battery or a generator. Hence these systems have no
active conductor is directly connected to earth. In the event of a short-circuit to exposed
conductive parts or to earth, only a small fault current will flow, owing to the lack of a return
path, dependent on the value of the insulation resistances RF and the capacitance Ce of the
conductors to earth. The difference between the earthed system and the unearthed system
in the case of an insulation fault becomes clear by comparing the figures 2 and 3.

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On the occurrence of a direct earth fault RF, an earth leakage current Id equal to the short
circuit current IK will flow in earthed systems (TN/TT systems).The series-connected fuse
blows, and the power supply is cut off (figure 3). By way of contrast, the unearthed system
(IT system) (figure 2). It is obvious that in the event of an insulation fault 0 < RF < ∞ only a
limited capacitive current flows through the line to earth capacitances. The series
connected fuse will not react in this case, which means that the power supply is guaranteed
in case of a single fault to earth.

As far as the safety of the power supply is concerned, the IT system offers the most
advantages. That is the reason why it is used in a lot of areas where a maximum of reliability
and safety of the power supply is required. These are for example control circuits according
to EN 60204: 1998-11, power supply systems for medically used rooms according to DIN VDE
0107: 1994-10, mobile generators according to DIN VDE 0100-551: 1997-08 and other
application fields. Apart from this, IT systems with insulation monitoring are increasingly
used in industrial systems with variable-speed drives, in complex production systems or
electronic data processing systems, because an unexpected failure of the power supply may
cause considerable costs.

Arrangement of an IT system with supplementary equipotential

bonding and insulation monitoring

When operating an IT system, it has to be considered that „a first fault“ changes an initially
unearthed system (IT system) into an earthed system (TN or TT system) and that a further
fault may lead to the tripping of circuit breakers and hence lead to disconnection.

Experience has shown that the single-pole fault (first fault) is the most likely type of fault to
occur (> 90%) and the risk of hazards due to a second fault are regarded to be very unlikely.
This fact is taken into account in the standard IEC 60364-4-41 where it is recommended that
a first insulation fault should be eliminated with the shortest practical delay.

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Advanced information through insulation monitoring

According to IEC 60364-4-41, an IT system must always be equipped with an insulation

monitoring device. The insulation monitoring device, which is connected between the active
conductors and earth, superimposes a DC measuring voltage onto the system. On the
occurrence of an insulation fault, the measuring circuit between system and earth closes via
the insulation fault RF, so that a DC measuring current Im proportionate to the insulation
fault is produced.
This DC measuring current causes a voltage drop which is evaluated by the electronic
circuitry. If this voltage drop exceeds a certain value, which is proportional to the insulation
resistance, an indication is given via alarm LEDs and alarm contacts. The small system
leakage capacitances Ce existing in the system are only charged to the value of the
measuring DC voltage and do not influence the measurement after the brief transient
response (figure 2). A detailed description of the requirements for an insulation monitoring
device is given in IEC 62557-8: 1998-05.Thanks to the insulation monitoring device, the
operator of the electrical installation is provided with the necessary advance information
which gives him effective support for preventive maintenance measures (figure 5).

Modern measuring principles for modern electrical loads

The measuring principle described before, can be used when the connected loads
exclusively are AC consumers. However, recently there had been changes in the structure of
the electrical loads. In many cases there are drives or loads with switched-mode power
supplies (e. g. personal computers, electronic control gear). Whilst on the one hand there are
the advantages of limited power loss,
smaller dimensions, and less weight, on the other hand problems may arise through
harmonic components caused by switched-mode power supply units and influence by DC
leakage current. Insulation monitoring devices using the measuring principle of
superimposed measuring DC voltage may cause false alarms due to DC
components.

The reason for that is that in case of a fault these extraneous voltages occur additionally to
the measuring voltage and therefore either lead to an increased measuring current and
hence to increased response sensitivity or lead to lower measuring current what means that
tripping is prevented (figure 6).

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High system leakage capacitances, which often exist in the form of interference suppressor
filters (EMC) between system and the earth, are also a source of interferences for insulation
monitoring devices with DC measuring voltage. When switching the IT system on, for the DC
measuring voltage these capacitances represent a low-ohmic connection to the earth so
that a high measuring DC current (load current for Ce) will flow which results in an alarm
message through the insulation monitoring device.
In order to eliminate the influence on the insulation measurement caused by DC measuring
voltages and system leakage capacitances, modern insulation monitoring devices work with
a pulsed measuring voltage. This measuring principle responds to system leakage
capacitances with variable clock times, taking the load curve of Ce into consideration.

The value of the occurring extraneous DC voltages is determined within one measuring cycle
and in this way can be considered accordingly when the insulation resistance is detected.

In practice, that means that neither extraneous DC voltages nor high system leakage
capacitances can no longer influence the measuring results and in this way allow precise
determination of the insulation resistance. The latest, international standard IEC 61557-8:
1998-05 specifies the requirements for insulation monitoring devices which are used in
systems up to AC 1000 V and DC 1500 V, independent of the measuring principle.

In order to fulfil the requirements of modern power supplies with regard to electrical safety
and operating continuity, new insulation monitoring devices have been developed. The new
AMPPlus measuring principle allows to determine the insulation resistance precisely, even
in extended systems and in systems with variable speed drives.

Comprehensive information about the current state of the electrical installation via text
display guarantees the necessary advance information. Besides, there is the possibility of
transferring measuring data via the field-bus to higher-level systems or of filing measuring
data in a memory, in order to register events including date and time.
Another version which can be extended to a complete insulation fault location system is
available, allowing time and cost-saving location of faulty circuits.

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 IRDH275(B)

IRDH275(B) IRDH375(B) IRDH575B1

The AMP measuring principle

The AMP measuring principle (patent applied by BENDER) is based on a

specially clocked measuring voltage which is controlled by a microcontroller
and adapts itself automatically to the respective system conditions. Software-
supported evaluation differentiate between system leakage current which
occur as interference variables on the evaluation circuit, and the measurement
variable, which is proportional to the ohmic insulation resistance. Consequently broadband
interference influences (such as those which are created when a frequency converter is in
operation) do not have a negative influence on the exact determination of the insulation
resistance. The adjustment parameters (response values, special alarm and display
functions) are programmable, and are stored in a non-volatile memory. Some devices are
fitted with interfaces for connection to data acquisition systems.

Devices with this measuring principle can be used universally in AC, DC and AC/DC systems,
with voltage or frequency variations, high system leakage capacitances and DC
components. These devices are able to cope with today’s modern distribution systems,
which usually contain influencing variables of this sort (the key words are frequency
converters and EMC).

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Standards

The EC directive

All the devices in the Bender range carry the CE symbol, meaning that they comply with the
respective EC directive. The corresponding standards and limiting values are listed below.
These are general data which are valid for all the products provided that the directive is
applicable.

Test of the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Severity degree

Immunity for industrial environments acc. IEC 61000-6-2
Electrostatic discharge immunity test acc. to IEC 61000-4-2 3
Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field3immunity test acc.
to IEC 61000-4-3 3
Electrical fast transient/
burst immunity test acc. to IEC 61000-4-4 3
Surge immunity test acc. to IEC 61000-4-5 3
Immunity to conducted disturbances, induced by radio-frequency
fields acc. to IEC 61000-4-6 3
Power frequency magnetic field
immunity test acc. to IEC 61000-4-8 3
Voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage
variations immunity tests acc. to IEC 61000-4-11 3
Emissions acc. to EN 50081-2:
Emissions acc. to EN 55011 / CISPR11 Class B*
* Class A

Mechanical tests: 15 g/11 ms

Shock resistance acc. to IEC 6068-2-27 40 g/6 ms
Bumping acc. to IEC 6068-2-29 10..150Hz
Vibration strength acc. to IEC 6068-2-6 0.15 mm/2 g

*Class A devices are only suitable for use in the industrial sector. For use in other
sectors, interference suppression measures must be implemented under certain
circumstances. Class B devices are suitable for use in the household and industrial
sectors.

Standards for the types of distribution system

The various types of distribution system (system forms) are described in DIN VDE
0100 Part 300:1985-11, and in IEC 60364-3. The various types of distribution
systems result from the different treatment of the neutral point of the system
(earthed or isolated) in conjunction with the possibilities of earthing exposed
conductive parts. You will find more information about these types of distribution
systems on pages 6 and 7 of this catalogue.

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Standards for protective measures

Protection of people and animals against hazardous body currents is basically

regulated in DIN VDE 0100 Part 410 (IEC 60364-4-41). These standards define the
measures for protection against direct contact, as well as in the case of indirect
contact. The hazard resulting from direct contact with live parts is easily
understood. Comprehensible measures can achieve protection in this case.
Measures achieved by switch-off or alarm are necessary as protection in the case
of indirect contact. Protective measures with protective conductors require the
type of distribution system to be coordinated with the protective measure.

The types of distribution systems (IT, TT and TN systems) have already been explained. The
following protective equipment is allowed:
• over-current protective devices
• insulation monitoring devices
• residual current protective devices
The next illustration shows an overview of the protective measures and the coordination
which they require between the type of distribution system used and the suitable protective
device.

Standards for insulation monitoring devices

The special requirements for insulation monitoring devices are stipulated in IEC 61557-8, EN
61557-8. This document describes devices which are used in pure AC systems, as well as
devices which are used in AC, DC and mixed AC/DC systems.
IEC 61557-8, EN 61557-8 is very precise with respect to the special requirements for
devices, type of construction, measuring technology, documentation and tests /inspections.
IEC 61557-9, EN 61557-9 regulates the requirements for insulation fault location systems.
All the devices in this catalogue satisfy the requirements of IEC 61557-8, EN 61557-8 and
IEC 61557-9, EN 61557-9.

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Fuse protection for insulation monitoring devices

Most insulation monitoring devices have two connections with an active system.
These are:
• the connection to the supply voltage US
• the coupling of the measuring circuit to the system to be monitored Un
Basically, each form of protection for an insulation monitoring device should be regarded as
wiring protection. However, a fuse protection in conformity with IEC 60364-4-473 is always
necessary if the current-carrying capacity is reduced by decreased wire cross section, by a
different type of routing, by different line conductor insulation or by a different number of
leads.
Safety devices for overload protection may be omitted in lines and cables where there is no
need to expect that overload currents will occur, provided that they have no spurs or plug
appliances.
In general, it may be assumed that these conditions can be fulfilled, both for the system
coupling and for the supply voltage connection of insulation monitoring devices.
The situation is different with regard to short-circuit protection. As a basic principle, the
supply voltage for insulation monitoring devices must be fitted with short-circuit protective
devices to afford protection in the event of a short-circuit. The use of 6 A fuses is
recommended. The fuse protection also makes it easier to access the devices for service
work. For the system coupling, safety devices to provide protection in the case of a short-
circuit can only be omitted if the possibility of a short-circuit is reduced to a minimum (IEC
60364-4-473). In these cases, cabling which is proof against short-circuits and short-circuits
to earth is advisable as the minimum. It is often very difficult to reduce the danger of short-
circuits to a minimum, and to decide whether this goal has been achieved. In cases of doubt,
it is also appropriate to install protective devices in the system coupling, to provide
protection by means of 6 A fuses in the event of a short-circuit.
If an insulation monitoring device is operated in combination with a coupling device, it is
absolutely essential for the connection between the coupling device and the system to be
fitted a short-circuit protection (6 A fuse).
On devices with integrated connection monitoring, a protection failure is reported as a line
interruption.

Summary

Nowadays, the increasing complexity and advanced technology of industrial systems places
extremely high demands on the reliability of power supply systems, where even a short
power failure may be very expensive due to production stoppage and malfunctions of
equipment.
With the application of floating (IT) systems a tool is available that effectively helps to
resolve these problems.

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