Appendix 1 Bulk Electric System

Transmission Maintenance Standard
Subject: Number: 80.10-08-00

Bulk Electric System Prepared by: C. J. McWhirter
Facility Rating Methodology Issued by: D. J. Papadoulis
Revision: 1
Date: 30 August 2013 Page 1 of 19
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 2
2 TRANSMISSION LINES..................................................................................................... 2
3 TRANSFORMERS ............................................................................................................. 6
4 SHUNT REACTORS .......................................................................................................... 8
5 SERIES REACTORS ......................................................................................................... 8
6 INSTRUMENT TRANSFORMERS ..................................................................................... 8
7 CIRCUIT BREAKERS ........................................................................................................ 9
8 SWITCHES ....................................................................................................................... 12
9 SHUNT CAPACITORS ..................................................................................................... 13
10 SERIES CAPACITORS .................................................................................................... 13
11 STATIC VAR COMPENSATORS .................................................................................... 13
12 STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATORS ................................................................ 14
13 DC TERMINALS............................................................................................................... 14
14 LINE TRAPS .................................................................................................................... 15
15 BUS CONDUCTORS, FITTINGS AND ATTACHMENTS ................................................ 15
16 PROTECTION, CONTROL AND MONITORING (SECONDARY CONNECTED)
DEVICES ......................................................................................................................... 18
17 REVISION NOTES ........................................................................................................... 19
This document is due for review in 2014.
Revision Description Prepared By Approved By Date

1 Annual review C. J. McWhirter D. J. Papadoulis 30 August 2013
0 Initial Issue C. J. McWhirter D. J. Papadoulis 31 August 2012
Printed Copies are Uncontrolled

Bulk Electric System Revision: 1
Facility Rating Methodology Date: 30 August 2013 Page 2 of 19
1 INTRODUCTION
This document outlines the methodologies used for rating Bulk Electric System Facilities in the BC
Hydro system.
The equipment included in this document is that which have a potential limiting influence on the rating
of a facility. A BC Hydro facility may contain one or more of these elements. Any piece of equipment will
have an individual rating; the facility’s rating will equal the most limiting equipment rating.
Sections 2 through 16 describe how the ratings for each equipment type are developed.
2 TRANSMISSION LINES
Transmission Line Facilities are comprised of all the overhead and underground transmission lines that
interconnect the generating stations, the transmission substations, the distribution substations, and the
transmission voltage customers. Line conductors are mostly overhead conductors with some
underground and underwater cables (including the associated cable fluid pumping apparatus). Other
terminal equipment is described in separate sections. Circuit ratings are based upon the section of the
circuit with the lowest ampacity. Where a circuit has taps, the distribution of the loading on the
segments of the circuit, and the locations of the telemetry must be considered. If taps exist for a circuit,
and segment information is not provided, then the circuit limitation is based upon the minimum ampacity
of all the segments, and tap loading does not have to be considered. The means of determining a
segments ratings, based upon its line type, are listed in the following sections.
2.1 Overhead Transmission Line
2.1.1 Normal Rating Criteria

Normal ratings for bare overhead conductors are based on:
a The steady state load current carrying capacity of the conductor and its connectors.
b A continuous thermal rating based on a maximum rated conductor temperature which

ensures safe and reliable facility operation, hence considers clearances and elevated
temperature effects. This rating serves as the normal continuous rating for the line
section.

2.1.2 Emergency Rating Criteria

In cases where emergency ratings are employed, the same criteria as discussed under
Normal Rating Criteria are utilized, except that the conductor maximum temperature is in
excess of the normal continuous rating. Under the emergency rating, the line shall
maintain adequate clearances and have elevated temperature effects either adequately
mitigated or managed consistent with the intent of the Normal Rating Criteria.
2.1.3 Industry Standards

Overhead transmission line ratings at BC Hydro are established with the methodology
described in the CSA Standard for Overhead Systems (CSA C22.3 No.1-01), the IEEE
Standard for Calculating the Current-Temperature of Bare Overhead Conductors (IEEE
Standard 738-2006) and BC Hydro standard ES-41.
2.1.4 Design Parameters

Summarized below are the design parameters used by BC Hydro in the IEEE Standard for
Calculating the Current-Temperature of Bare Overhead Conductors (IEEE Standard 738-
2006). The weather conditions are derived from the meteorological conditions found in BC
Hydro’s service area and the CIGRE Technical Brochure 299 “Guide for Selection of
Weather Parameters for Bare Overhead Conductor Ratings” published in August 2006.
a Voltage Rating
This is a design parameter based upon the operating voltage and future system
requirements. Voltage rating affects clearance requirements.
b Ambient Air Temperature

BC Hydro’s current ampacity rating criteria uses an average ambient air temperature
of 5 °C.
c Wind Speed
BC Hydro’s current ampacity rating criteria based on the geographical area and the
metrological data.
d Load Conditions
Snow load: based on the geographical area and the metrological data.
High temperature load: 90 °C on most BC Hydro transmission lines.
e Maximum continuous conductor operating temperatures

These are established based on operating experience and IEEE 1283-2004, Guide
for Determining the Effects of High-Temperature Operation on Conductors,
Connectors, and Accessories. The maximum continuous conductor operating
temperatures used for the different transmission conductor types at BC Hydro is
90 °C.
Many line sections are limited by other considerations (i.e., clearances) and hence do not
necessarily carry the maximum operating temperatures. The maximum continuous
operating temperature is the upper limits to control conductor damage due to elevated
temperature operation.

2.2 Underground Transmission Cable
2.2.1 Industry Standards

The two basic references used to determine the steady-state ratings are IEC Standard 287
(1982-1995), and classic paper by Neher-McGrath (1957). The corresponding methods for
transient analyses are the IEC Standards IEC 60853-1 (1985), the IEC 60853-2 (1989) and
Neher (1964).
The steady-state and transient ratings are calculated using CYME software. The computation
engine of the software is based on the above referenced IEC 287 and IEC 60853 standards.
2.2.2 Normal and Emergency Rating Criteria

Normal and emergency ratings for underground transmission cables are based upon the
maximum allowable temperatures of the cable insulation at the conductor. The conductor
temperature limit for kraft paper insulation and polypropylene laminated insulation used in
HPFF and SCFF cables have been established at 85 °C for normal operation, 105 °C for
100-hour emergencies, and 100 °C for 300-hour emergencies. The corresponding
temperatures for XLPE insulated cables are 90 °C for normal operation and 105 °C for 216-
hour in any single emergency event. There are no specific requirements for 300-hour
emergency ratings on XLPE cables..
The governing temperature limits for SCFF cables and accessories are described in the
Association of Edison Illuminating Companies specification CS4-93 (AEIC CS4-93
Specifications for Impregnated Paper Insulated Low and Medium Pressure Self Contained
Liquid Filled Cable). Similarly, the governing temperatures limits for XLPE cables and
accessories are described in the AEIC CS9-06 (Specifications for Extruded Insulation
Power Cables and Their Accessories Rated 46kV through 345kV).
2.2.3 Rating Algorithms

For calculating the predicted conductor temperature and thus the allowable operating
ampacity, BC Hydro uses the algorithms based on the International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) standard IEC 60287 series. On rare occasion BC Hydro may also use
the algorithms based on the method described by Neher-McGrath (1957),
When dealing with thermal bottlenecks such as steam crossings or other distribution circuit
crossings, finite-element software such as ALGOR is used to compute their impact on
ratings.
2.2.4 Acceptable Rating Methods

BC Hydro use the above algorithms in the following ways to rate cables:
a By utilizing CYMCAP software (from CYME International Inc) or Electric Power

Research Institute’s ACE software suite. These software packages utilize both the
Neher-McGrath and IEC 60287 methods.
b To verify cable manufacturer's ampacity calculations.

c Conditions not adequately modeled by software may be rated using other calculation
techniques.
2.2.5 Design Parameters

The design parameters used in establishing cable ratings for a given cable type and cable
configurations can be found in BC Hydro standard ES-42 and are as follows:
a Voltage Rating
This is a design parameter based upon the operating voltage and future system
requirements.
b Earth Ambient Temperature

In the Greater Vancouver and Greater Victoria areas, the maximum summer and
winter ground ambient temperatures at cable burial depth of 1.5 m are assumed to be
23 °C and 15 °C, respectively. These maxima are considerably above the measured
nominal values in order to provide an allowance for the effect of local temperature
anomalies.
c Soil Thermal Resistivity

These are measured and adjusted to allow for the driest soil conditions anticipated
for each proposed circuit.
d Load Factor of Proposed Underground Line

These are obtained separately for each proposed circuit. If this is unknown the load
factor is assumed to be 1.0.
e Cable Depth
This is based on the proposed route profile. Generally, the cables are placed in a
2X2 concrete encased ductbank configuration and the centre-line of this ductbank
configuration is assumed to be 1. 5m below grade. If the cable is a direct-buried
installation and the depth of burial is unknown the centre-line of cable burial depth is
assumed to be 1.5 m.
f Fault Current
The fault current magnitude and the short-circuit durations are provided by the
system fault study for each proposed installation.
g Cable configuration and bonding arrangements

The bonding arrangements and cable spacing can influence cable ratings and are
accounted for in the ampacity calculations
h Adjacent Heat Sources

The presence of adjacent heat sources such as distribution cable circuits, steam
pipes or transformer vaults are identified wherever possible to help assess their
impact on circuit ratings. Where the heat sources are not adjacent but cross the
planned circuits, the classical calculation methods are inadequate. Finite element
techniques are then applied to develop the steady-state ratings for such
configurations.

i Cable Characteristics
The cable's construction (conductor size, material, stranding, bonding method,
insulation thickness, etc.), dissipation factor of the main insulation system, thermal
resistivity of the various materials used in the cable manufacture, and the
corresponding heat capacities are used to determine the cables Joule and dielectric
losses. It is assumed that the dielectric losses are a function of voltage alone and is
temperature invariant.
2.3 Underwater Transmission Cable

The facility ratings methodology for underwater transmission cables is similar to that discussed above.
The key differences are:
a The ambient summer and winter water temperatures are depth dependent. Generally, across the
sea channels where these underwater cables are located, the water temperatures for summer
and winter are assumed to be 8 °C; steady-state and transient ratings are performed accordingly.
It is assumed that the cables lay on top of the sea-bottom.
b The cables in the ocean are spaced either 200 m apart or two times the water depth (whichever is
greater)
The conductor sizes are generally governed by the land section of the cable as the ambient soil
temperatures are higher than the water temperatures.
The rating methodology for computing the ratings for DC underwater cables is similar to those adopted
for AC underwater cables except that in the case of dc voltage application the dielectric loss, sheath
and armor losses are ignored.
3 TRANSFORMERS
Transmission system transformers on the Bulk Electric System are rated on an individual basis.
Transformer emergency ratings at BC Hydro are established with the following methods:
a Application of Standard IEEE C57.91, Guide for Loading Mineral-Oil Immersed Power
Transformers Rated in Excess of 100 MVA (65 °C Winding Rise).
b Limitations of the transformer bushings as established and evaluated by the original bushing
manufacturer or by bushing nameplate rating. BC Hydro’s specifications require that the
bushings are not the limiting factor to load a transformer.
c Limitations of the loading capability of on-load tap changers and de-energized tap changers (if
applicable).
General guidelines for determining overloading rating of transformers are shown below.

3.1 Multiple Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Winter Loading

With the past change in transformer ratings to a 65 °C rated temperature rise from the formerly
used 55 °C rated temperature rise, the loading capability of transformers has been reduced. This
is because physically, less copper is required for a transformer rated for a 65 °C rise to achieve a
specific rating than a similarly rated transformer rated for a 55 °C rise.
At 0 °C ambient temperature, the most restrictive loading limit for a 110 °C + 10 °C = 120 °C hot
spot temperature limit on the BC Hydro system is for an ONAN/ONAF/ONAF transformer, where
the load limit is 131%.
Because the BC Hydro substation peak load typically occurs at below 0 °C, a slightly higher
loading should be possible.
For a transformer in multiple outdoor air-cooled transformer distribution stations, the transformer
loading capacity will be taken as 133% of the fully forced cooled rating.
3.2 Multiple Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Summer Loading

At an ambient temperature of 30 °C, the loading limit for ONAN/ONAF/ONAF transformers rated
for a 65 °C temperature rise is 109% for a 120 °C hot spot temperature limit.
Because some of the stations in the BC Hydro system may exceed an average temperature of
30 °C during the summer peak, a slightly lower loading will be used.
For a transformer in multiple outdoor air-cooled transformer distribution stations, the transformer
loading capacity will be taken as 105% of the fully forced cooled rating.
3.3 Single Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Loading

For single transformer distribution stations, the transformer will see the entire peak load year after
year. Therefore, to be conservative to preserve equipment life, the rating will be considered for a
110 °C winding temperature hot spot. For a 65 °C temperature rise rated transformer, the rated
loading limit at an ambient temperature of 0 °C is 123% for an ONAN/ONAF/ONAF transformer.
At 30 °C ambient temperature, the rated loading limit is 101%.
For a transformer in a single transformer distribution station, the winter loading limit will be taken
as 120% of the fully forced cooling rating. The summer loading limit will be taken as the fully
forced cooling rating.
3.4 Transmission Stations, Transformer Loading

For transmission system substations, the transformers do not see the same varying magnitudes
of intra-day load variation as distribution transformers experience. Therefore, in accordance with
IEEE and CSA standards, the maximum winter loading limit will be the fully forced cooling rating
plus 0.75% per degree Celsius that the ambient temperature is below 25 °C. Historically, the
temperature based overload capacity has only been taken to a temperature of 0 °C, and this
practice will remain used as a planning limit.

For system transformers, the winter loading limit will be taken as 118.75% of the fully forced
cooling rating. The summer loading limit will be taken as the fully forced cooling rating.
4 SHUNT REACTORS
Shunt reactors in support of the Bulk Electric System are specified and rated according to IEEE C57.21,
IEEE Standard Requirements, Terminology, and Test Code for Shunt Reactors Rated Over 500 kVA.
Shunt reactors in support of the Bulk Electric System are specified, designed and applied for the full
range of system voltage conditions and ranges to which they will be subjected. The Normal Rating for
BC Hydro shunt reactors are rated per the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC Hydro does not have ratings
above normal for shunt reactors therefore no Emergency Ratings are provided as they would be equal
to the Normal Ratings.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the reactor such as breakers, switches, bus
work and relay settings are designed not to be limiting Elements for the operation of the reactor.
Therefore the reactor ratings become the limiting ratings of the Facility.
5 SERIES REACTORS
Transmission series connected reactors are specified and rated according to ANSI/IEEE C57.16, IEEE
Standard Requirements, Terminology, and Test Code for Dry-Type Air-Core Series-Connected
Reactors and ANSI C57.99, Guide for Loading Dry-Type and Oil-Immersed Current-Limiting Reactors.
Transmission series reactors are rated per the manufacturer’s specifications. The Normal Rating for BC
Hydro transmission series reactors is given on the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC Hydro does not
provide ratings above normal for series reactors therefore no Emergency Ratings are provided as they
would be equal to the Normal Ratings.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the series reactor such as breakers, switches,
buswork and relay settings are designed not to be limiting Elements for the operation of the reactor.
Therefore the reactor ratings become the limiting ratings of the Facility.
6 INSTRUMENT TRANSFORMERS
Free standing instrument transformers are rated according to CAN/CSA-C60044 Parts 1 to 6, Standard
for Instrument Transformers.
BC Hydro rates transmission instrument transformers according to manufacturers’ specifications with

continuous ratings shown on the nameplate. BC Hydro does not have emergency ratings for instrument
transformers; therefore emergency ratings will be identical to continuous ratings. BC Hydro maintains a
stock of critical instrument transformers for emergencies.

7 CIRCUIT BREAKERS
BC Hydro specifies the AC High Voltage circuit breakers based on the operating voltage, short-circuit
interrupting current, continuous current, interrupting time, lightning impulse withstand, transient
recovery voltage withstand, ambient temperature conditions (-30 °C, or -50 °C to +40 °C), seismic
withstand and mechanical endurance.
The specifications are principally in accordance with ANSI/IEEE Standards C37 series, “Symmetrical
Current Basis” and IEC Standards 62271 series. These ratings are indicated on the individual Circuit
Breaker nameplate. The following standards are referenced in the breaker specifications:
ABSI/IEEE C57.19.00 General Requirements and Test Procedures for Outdoor Power Apparatus
Bushings
ANSI C29.1 Test Methods for Electrical Power Insulators
ANSI C37.06 Preferred Ratings and Related Required Capabilities for AC High Voltage
Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis
ANSI/ASME B1.1 Unified Inch Screw Threads
ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 General Purpose Pipe Threads
ANSI/ASME B16.1 & Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings

ANSI/ASME B16.5
ANSI/IEEE C37.010 Application Guide for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a

Symmetrical Current Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.011 Transient Recovery Voltage for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a
Symmetrical Current Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.012 Capacitance Current Switching of AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on

a Symmetrical Current Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.04 Rating Structure for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical
Current Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.081 Guide for Synthetic Fault Testing of AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated
on a Symmetrical Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.09 Test Procedure for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical
Current Basis
ANSI/IEEE C37.100 Definitions for Power Switchgear

ANSI/IEEE C37.90.1 Surge Withstand Capability (SWC) Tests for Protective Relays and Relay
Systems
ASME B31.1 Power Piping
ASME PTC9 Performance Test Code for Displacement Compressors, Vacuum Pumps and
Blowers
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code – VIII Pressure Vessels
ASTM A182 Standard Specification for Forged or Rolled Alloy-Steel Pipe Flanges, Forged
Fittings and Valves and Parts for High-Temperature Service
ASTM A269 Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel
Tube for General Service
ASTM A312 Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Austenitic Stainless Steel
Pipes
ASTM B302 Standard Specification for Threadless Copper Pipe
ASTM D2472 Standard Specification for Sulphur Hexafluoride
CAN/CSA C1264-99 Ceramic Pressurized Hollow Insulators for High-Voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear
CAN/CSA-C50052-99 Cast Aluminum Alloy Enclosures for Gas-Filled High-Voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear
CAN/CSA-C50064-99 Wrought Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy Enclosures for Gas-Filled High-
Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear
CAN/CSA-C50068-99 Wrought Steel Enclosures for Gas-Filled High-Voltage Switchgear and

Controlgear
CAN/CSA-C50069-99 Welded Composite Enclosures of Cast and Wrought Aluminum Alloys for Gas-
Filled High-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear
CAN/CSA-C50089-99 Cast Resin Partitions for Metal-Enclosed Gas-Filled High-Voltage Switchgear

and Controlgear
CAN3-C13-M Instrument Transformers
CAN3-C308-M The Principles and Practice of Insulation Coordination
CSA B51-M Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code
CSA C50 Insulating Oil, Electrical for Transformers and Switches

EEMAC GL1-3 Power Transformer and Reactor Bushings
IEC 60060 High-Voltage Test Techniques
IEC 60233 Tests on Hollow Insulators for Use in Electrical Equipment
IEC 60376 Specification and Acceptance of New Sulphur Hexafluoride
IEC 60427 Report on Synthetic Testing of High Voltage Alternating Current Circuit
Breakers
IEC 60480 Guide to the Checking of Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) Taken from Electrical
Equipment
IEC 60694 Common Clauses for High-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Standards
IEC 61264 Ceramic Pressurized Hollow Insulators for High-Voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear
IEC 61462 Composite Insulators – Hollow Insulators for Use In Outdoor and Indoor
Electrical Equipment
IEC 62271-100 High Voltage Alternating Current Circuit Breakers
IEC 62271-102 Alternating Current Disconnectors and Earthing Switches
IEC 62271-301 High-Voltage Alternating Current Circuit-Breakers: Inductive Load Switching
IEC 62271-302 Guide to Testing of Circuit Breakers with Respect to Out-of-Phase Switching
IEC TR2 61233 High-Voltage Alternating Circuit-Breakers – Inductive Load Switching
IEEE C37.015 IEEE Application Guide for Shunt Reactor Switching
IEEE 693 IEEE Recommended Practice for Seismic Design of Substations
The Nominal Rating for BC Hydro transmission circuit breakers is as shown on the manufacturer’s
nameplate. The seismic withstand of the transmission circuit breakers is “High” in accordance with
IEEE 693 and manufacturers must prove this rating through actual testing. The mechanical endurance
rating for BC Hydro circuit breakers is M2 (successfully withstanding 10,000 mechanical operations) in
accordance with IEC 62271-100. In addition, shunt reactor switching circuit breakers must be rated for
5,000 shunt reactor switching operations with no maintenance of the interrupting parts. Any grading
capacitors must be suitable for continuous operation at maximum operating voltage with the breaker left
in open position. The transient recovery voltage (TRV) withstand requirements are rated “High” or
“Medium” as per ANSI C37.06 plus a special TRV envelope described in BC Hydro’s technical
specification for High Voltage circuit breakers.

BC Hydro follows a stringent qualification process for the acquisition, installation, commissioning and
maintenance of transmission circuit breakers. All circuit breaker manufacturers must submit with their
tenders a full dossier of all type tests performed on the specific circuit breakers. The type test reports
are evaluated by BC Hydro or their agent (BC Hydro Engineering). Tender review meetings are held to
clarify all aspects (technical and commercial) of the tendered equipment. Once purchase orders are
issued, the manufacturers submit drawings for review and approval, and Design Review meetings are
conducted at the manufacturers’ plants for new circuit breaker types. The circuit breakers must pass all
production tests specified and some of these are witnessed and inspected prior to shipping to site. BC
Hydro performs commissioning tests before placing the equipment in service. Finally, a maintenance
standard exists or is set up for every type of circuit breaker in BC Hydro transmission system. The
maintenance standard specifies the maintenance tasks, the maintenance intervals, the acceptable
values for various maintenance parameters (e.g. contact resistance, timing, Doble results if applicable,
pressures, etc.). These values are then entered into the computerized Work Management system via
hand-held devices, for future reference.
8 SWITCHES
A similar acquisition, commissioning and maintenance process to that for circuit breakers is applicable
to BC Hydro disconnect switches. The following standards are used to rate high voltage switches:
ANSl C37.32 High-Voltage Switches, Bus Supports, and Switch Accessories – Schedules of
Preferred Ratings, Construction Guidelines and Specifications
ANSI C37.33 Switchgear – High Voltage Air Switches – Rated Control Voltages and their
Ranges
ANSI/ASME B1.1 Unified Inch Screw Threads
ANSI/IEEE C37.90.1 Surge Withstand Capability (SWC) Tests for Protective Relays and Relay
Systems
ASTM B633 Specification for Electrode Deposited Coatings of Zinc on Iron and Steel
CAN/CSA-C156.1-M Ceramic and Glass Station Post Insulators
CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations
IEEE C37.30 Definitions and Requirements for High Voltage Air Switches, Insulators and
Bus Supports
IEEE C37.34 Test Code for High Voltage Air Switches
IEEE No. 4 IEEE Standard Techniques for High Voltage Testing
IEEE 693 IEEE Recommended Practice for Seismic Design of Substations

Transmission switches are rated in accordance to the manufacturer’s nameplate. The Normal Rating for
BC HYDRO transmission switches is as shown on the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC HYDRO does
not have ratings above normal for transmission switches therefore no Emergency Ratings are provided
as they would be equal to the Normal Ratings.
9 SHUNT CAPACITORS
Transmission shunt capacitors at BC Hydro are specified and rated according to IEEE 18, IEEE
Standard for Shunt Power Capacitors, IEEE 1036, IEEE Guide for the Application of Shunt Power
Capacitors and IEEE C37.99, IEEE Guide for the Protection of Shunt Power Capacitors.
Transmission shunt capacitors are specified, designed and applied for the full range of normal system
voltage conditions and ranges to which they will be subjected. The Normal Rating for BC Hydro
transmission shunt capacitors are rated per the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC Hydro does not have
ratings above normal for shunt capacitor banks therefore no Emergency Ratings are provided as they
would be equal to the Normal Ratings.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the bank such as breakers, switches, buswork
and relay settings are designed not to be limiting Elements for the operation of the bank. Therefore the
shunt capacitor bank ratings become the limiting ratings of the Facility.
10 SERIES CAPACITORS
Transmission series connected capacitors are specified and rated according to IEEE 824, IEEE
Standard Requirements for Series Capacitors in Power Systems and ANSI/IEEE C37.116, Guide for
Protection Relaying Applications to Transmission Connected Series Capacitors.
Transmission series capacitors are rated per the manufacturer’s specifications. The Normal Rating for
BC Hydro transmission series capacitors is given on the manufacturer’s nameplate and instruction
books. BC Hydro specifies ratings above normal for series capacitors consistent with power system
requirements in the form of a normal rating and a 30 minute rating. System swing and transient
requirements are carefully coordinated with system requirements for each individual location.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the series capacitor such as breakers,
switches, buswork and relay settings are designed not to be limiting elements for the operation of the
series capacitor. Therefore the series capacitor ratings become the limiting ratings of the Facility.
11 STATIC VAR COMPENSATORS
Transmission class Static VAR Compensators (SVCs) are specified and rated according to IEEE 1031,
Guide for the Functional Specification for Transmission Static VAR Compensators.

Transmission class SVCs are specified designed and applied for the full range of normal system
voltage conditions and ranges to which they will be subjected. Harmonic impedance data and existing
harmonic content is also considered when specifying an SVC. The Normal Rating for BC Hydro
transmission class SVCs are rated per the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC Hydro SVCs are specified
with some over and under voltage capability depending on the application and therefore possess some
emergency ratings depending on the desired performance and intended purpose.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the SVC, such as breakers, switches, buswork
and relay settings are designed not to be limiting Elements for the operation of the device. Therefore
the SVC ratings become the limiting ratings of the Facility.
12 STATIC SYNCHRONOUS COMPENSATORS
Transmission class Static synchronous compensators (STATCOMs) are specified and rated according
to IEEE 1031, Guide for the Functional Specification for Transmission Static VAR Compensators.
Transmission class STATCOMS are specified, designed, and applied for the full range of normal
system voltage conditions and ranges to which they will be subjected. Harmonic impedance data and
existing harmonic content is also considered when specifying an STATCOM. The Normal Rating for BC
Hydro transmission class STATCOMs are rated per the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC Hydro
STATCOMs are specified with some over and under voltage capability depending on the application
and therefore possess some emergency ratings depending on the desired performance and intended
purpose.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the STATCOM, such as breakers, switches,
buswork and relay settings are designed not to be limiting elements for the operation of the device.
13 DC TERMINALS
BC Hydro HVDC systems are specified and rated according to:
IEEE 1204 Guide for Planning DC Links Terminating at AC Locations Having Low Short-
Circuit Capacities
IEEE 1531 Guide for Application and Specification of Harmonic Filters
IEEE 1227 Guide for the Measurement of DC Electric-Field Strength and Ion Related
Quantities
IEEE 1031 Guide for the Functional Specification for Transmission Static VAR
Compensators
IEEE 857 Recommended Practice for Test Procedures for High-Voltage Direct-Current
Thyristor Valves

IEEE 1124 Guide for the Analysis and Definition of DC-Side Harmonic Performance of
HVDC Transmission Systems
BC Hydro HVDC systems are specified, designed, and applied for the full range of normal system
voltage, operational conditions and limits to which they will be subjected to. Harmonic impedance data,
existing AC system harmonics and self-generated harmonics are also considered when specifying an
HVDC system. The Normal Rating for BC Hydro HVDC system is rated per the manufacturer’s
nameplate. BC Hydro HVDC systems are specified with some over and under voltage, short/long time
current carrying, under/over frequency, real/reactive power capabilities depending on the application
and therefore possess some emergency ratings depending on the desired performance and intended
purpose. The systems are specified with the specific configurations. Some of these are monopolar,
bipolar with or without metallic ground return. The systems can be specified to be of either line-
commutated current sourced converter or self-commutated voltage sourced converter types. The
switching technologies, e.g. thyristor, IGBT, etc. including valve design may be specified as required.
Other associated power system equipment connected to the HVDC systems may include
converter/inverter transformers, synchronous condensers, SVCs, AC and DC harmonic filters,
smoothing reactors, DC capacitors, ground electrodes, MOVs, arresters, switching equipment such as
breakers, switches, interrupters, etc., integrated communications and controls systems, protection
systems for AC, HVDC, auxiliary components, etc.
14 LINE TRAPS
BC Hydro line traps are specified and rated according to ANSI C93.3, Requirements for Power-line
Carrier Line Traps.
The Normal Rating for BC Hydro line traps are rated as shown on the manufacturer’s nameplate. BC
Hydro does not have ratings above normal for line traps therefore no Emergency Ratings are provided
as they would be equal to the Normal Ratings.
15 BUS CONDUCTORS, FITTINGS AND ATTACHMENTS
The electrical conductivity of various materials used in buswork in the BC Hydro system is listed in
Table 1 below. Although hard-drawn copper with 98% conductivity is still used in some applications,
aluminum alloy is the preferred material.
15.1 Material
For electrical applications, aluminum alloys are used because they have good mechanical
strength to withstand the stresses caused by short circuits, wind, sleet and thermal expansion
and still maintain high enough conductivity to minimize power loss and temperature rise under
overload. The most commonly used aluminum alloys in electrical applications are:
a Aluminum 1350 H12 for wire and bus conductors - this wrought aluminum alloy with
99.50% purity is characterized by excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical
conductivity, limited mechanical properties and excellent workability.

b Aluminum 6101 T6 for wire and bus conductors - this heat-treated wrought aluminum has
considerably higher yield strength and better creep resistance than 1350, without significant
reduction in conductivity.
c Aluminum A356 for connector fittings - these cast alloys have high mechanical strength and
adequate conductivity. They are suitable for bolted connections and are used in all stock
connectors in the BC Hydro system.
Table 1 - Properties of Aluminum Alloys Used for Buswork
Alloy and Temper

Property 1350 H12 6101 T6 A356
Electrical conductivity at 20 C, percent IACS 61-62 57 41
Thermal conductivity at 20 C, W/in./C 5.9 - 6.0 5.6 4.1
Tensile strength at 20 C, ksi

minimum ultimate 12 29 38
minimum yield 8 25 27
Typical Yield strength (0.2% extension), ksi 12 28 28
Melting point, C 657 654 615
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion per C 0.000023 0.000023 0.0000225
Modulus of elasticity, ksi 10 10 10.5
For design purposes, in conjunction with other recommendations described in this methodology,
a current density of 0.27 A/mm2 (175 A/in.2), calculated on the basis of contact surface, should be
used to determine the required minimum contact area for both cylindrical and flat connectors.
Since flat terminal pads require design uniformity in order to ensure compatibility between the
connector pads and the corresponding equipment terminals, their size and hole configurations
are based on NEMA Standards Publication CC1.
Bolted aluminum connectors are chosen according to both their electrical and mechanical
requirements and whenever practicable, tested in accordance with CSA C57. The body material
shall be aluminum 6101-T6 or other alloys of equivalent or higher mechanical strength.
15.2 Ambient Air Temperature

Ambient air temperature affects the electrical and physical properties and operating
characteristics of material and equipment.

For general station design the maximum ambient air temperatures are 35 C for the southern
interior of the province and 30 C for the rest of the province. These values are based on the
National Building Code of Canada 2.5% temperatures. Minimum ambient air temperatures
are -30 C for the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island and -50 C for the rest of the province.
For major equipment specification the maximum ambient temperature is 40 C throughout the
province.
15.3 Mechanical Strength Requirements

Although written specifically for aluminum conductor the mechanical strength requirements and
other mechanical aspects of the design of rigid outdoor aluminum bus work are also generally
applicable to conductors made from copper and other materials.
15.3.1 Conductor Fibre Stress

Fibre stress in the aluminum conductor shall be limited to 100 MPa. This value is based
on an ultimate tensile strength for 6101-T6 aluminum alloy of about 200 MPa with an
applied safety factor of 2.0.
Where welds are located in high stress areas fibre stress must be limited to 75 MPa.
Welds in high stress areas shall therefore be avoided. This limitation does not apply to
welded bus couplings which use an internal sleeve behind the weld area.
15.3.2 Insulator Cantilever Force

Cantilever force at the top of bus support insulators is limited to 40% of the rated
cantilever strength of the insulator. This provides a safety factor of 2.5 as recommended
by insulator manufacturers.
15.3.3 Radial Ice

A radial coating of ice on the bus conductor increases the bus mass and cross section
thus increasing the gravitational and wind force respectively.
A radial ice thickness of 12.7 mm is used for buswork design. Radial ice accretion on
insulators is not significant for buswork design. Radial ice accretion is not considered in
the design of structures.
15.3.4 Short Circuit Currents

The interaction of short circuit currents in two or more bus phases produces lateral forces
on the buswork. The buswork mass may include radial ice and damping cable.
15.3.5 Seismic Activity

Ground accelerations due to earthquakes impose dynamic forces which must be
considered in bus design.

15.3.6 Design Load Combinations

Two combinations of the influencing factors have been chosen as representing the most
likely and onerous combinations for calculating mechanical strength requirements of the
buswork:
a Gravity, reference wind pressure of 385 Pa (gust factor 1.0), 12.7 mm radial ice
and short circuit forces
b Gravity and reference wind pressure of 400 Pa or 600 Pa times a gust factor of 2.0
Shape and exposure factors must be applied for both of the above combinations. The
adequacy of supporting structure and foundation design is the responsibility of the Civil
and Mechanical Design Department. Seismic design is considered independently of the
design load combinations.
15.4 Aeolian Vibration

Horizontal laminar air flow in a direction normal or nearly normal to the longitudinal axis of the bus
conductor produces alternating vertical forces on the conductor. This phenomenon is known as
Aeolian excitation. If the excitation frequency is close to the natural frequency of the conductor
arrangement, potentially destructive vibrations may occur on the conductor.
The conductor length is the distance between points of support. These may be insulator clamps,
equipment terminals, interphase insulators, A-frames or rigid drops. Since end conditions cannot
be precisely defined, the more onerous condition should be determined. Aeolian vibration on
tubular bus is generally controlled by installing damping cable inside the tube. To be effective,
the damping cable must be very flexible and have a mass between 10% and 30% of the bus
mass. The cable must be vinyl or plastic covered to reduce audible noise.
15.5 Thermal Expansion

Thermal expansion of the bus conductor must be accommodated to avoid overstressing the
buswork components or connected equipment components.
15.6 Bus Vertical Deflection

For aesthetic reasons, the ratio of conductor vertical deflection to span length is limited to
0.00667. Radial ice loading is not considered in the calculation.
16 PROTECTION, CONTROL AND MONITORING (SECONDARY CONNECTED) DEVICES
BC Hydro secondary connected device ratings are equal to, or greater than the associated instrument
transformer ratings (see Section 6). Relay settings for all transmission lines follow NERC PRC-023-1
guidelines for relay loadability.

17 REVISION NOTES
Revision 0: Original issue.

Revision 1: Annual review in 2013
Section 1, grammar and language changes
Section 6, updated with new standard
Section 16, updated with language referring to secondary device ratings

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Transmission Maintenance Standard

Subject: Number: 80.10-08-00

This document is due for review in 2014.

Revision Description Prepared By Approved By Date

Printed Copies are Uncontrolled

2.1 Overhead Transmission Line

2.1.1 Normal Rating Criteria

b A continuous thermal rating based on a maximum rated conductor temperature which

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2.1.2 Emergency Rating Criteria

2.1.3 Industry Standards

2.1.4 Design Parameters

b Ambient Air Temperature

e Maximum continuous conductor operating temperatures

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2.2 Underground Transmission Cable

2.2.1 Industry Standards

2.2.2 Normal and Emergency Rating Criteria

2.2.3 Rating Algorithms

2.2.4 Acceptable Rating Methods

a By utilizing CYMCAP software (from CYME International Inc) or Electric Power

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2.2.5 Design Parameters

b Earth Ambient Temperature

c Soil Thermal Resistivity

d Load Factor of Proposed Underground Line

g Cable configuration and bonding arrangements

h Adjacent Heat Sources

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2.3 Underwater Transmission Cable

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3.1 Multiple Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Winter Loading

3.2 Multiple Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Summer Loading

3.3 Single Transformer Distribution Stations, Transformer Loading

3.4 Transmission Stations, Transformer Loading

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BC Hydro rates transmission instrument transformers according to manufacturers’ specifications with

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ANSI C29.1 Test Methods for Electrical Power Insulators

ANSI/ASME B1.1 Unified Inch Screw Threads

ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 General Purpose Pipe Threads

ANSI/ASME B16.1 & Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings

ANSI/IEEE C37.010 Application Guide for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a

ANSI/IEEE C37.012 Capacitance Current Switching of AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on

ANSI/IEEE C37.100 Definitions for Power Switchgear

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ASME B31.1 Power Piping

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code – VIII Pressure Vessels

ASTM B302 Standard Specification for Threadless Copper Pipe

ASTM D2472 Standard Specification for Sulphur Hexafluoride

CAN/CSA-C50068-99 Wrought Steel Enclosures for Gas-Filled High-Voltage Switchgear and

CAN/CSA-C50089-99 Cast Resin Partitions for Metal-Enclosed Gas-Filled High-Voltage Switchgear

CAN3-C13-M Instrument Transformers

CAN3-C308-M The Principles and Practice of Insulation Coordination

CSA B51-M Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code

CSA C50 Insulating Oil, Electrical for Transformers and Switches

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EEMAC GL1-3 Power Transformer and Reactor Bushings

IEC 60060 High-Voltage Test Techniques