CYPELEC

CYPELEC NF

Designs low-voltage electrical systems in accordance with the French NF C 14-100 and NF C 15-100 standards.

Data entry

Free definition

• Defining the system, its elements and its characteristics by entering them freely in CYPELEC.

Importing BIM models

If the CYPELEC job is linked to a BIM project on the BIMserver.center platform, the following can be carried out:

• Import the content of switchboards and sub-switchboards from CYPELEC Distribution in order to use them in the process of automatic generation of lines and circuits in CYPELEC:
  • Import models from CYPELEC Distribution
• Import the numerical values of the earthing resistance of the system from CYPELEC Grounding IEC and CYPELEC Grounding IEEE:
  • Import models from CYPELEC Grounding IEC
  • Import models from CYPELEC Grounding IEEE

Data output

• Exporting reports to HTML, DOCX, PDF, RTF and TXT formats.
• Exporting drawings to DXF, DWG and PDF formats.
• Exporting the information contained in CYPELEC to the BIMserver.center platform using IFC formats. This allows the information to be viewed by authorised project participants. The information generated by CYPELEC can be used by the following programs:
  • CYPELEC Multiline
    Automatically generates the multiline diagram.
  • CYPELEC Networks
    Receives the total power of the low voltage system and considers it as a point load for network analysis.
  • Open BIM Cable Routing
    Reads the information on the single-line diagram of the electrical system.
  • Open BIM Switchboard / Open BIM Retelec
    Allows users to import the distribution of lines and their assigned protections to create the distribution of protection elements inside the switchboard or cabinet.

"Single-line" tab

When starting, the tab activated by default is the "Single-line" tab. This presents a work environment that allows users to design and analyse the low-voltage electrical system by directly viewing and editing its single-line diagram.

This tab displays the following:

• A top toolbar containing the tools for managing the general conditions, supply and other project options, such as options for entering and editing lines and circuits, and special switchboard and lines, for using the editing and viewing tools, and for carrying out the analysis, checking and design of the system.
• The single-line diagram display area, on the right-hand side of the screen, where the lines and components of the electrical system can be selected, viewed and edited.
• On the left-hand side, a tree structure of the lines and circuits making up the electrical system, which can be expanded or collapsed.

"Tree" tab

On the other hand, the "Tree" tab presents a work environment that allows users to design and analyse the low-voltage electrical system by directly accessing the panels for defining the lines and components from the project's navigation tree diagram.

This tab displays the following:

• A top toolbar containing the tools for managing the general conditions, supply and other project options, such as options for entering and editing lines and circuits, and switchboards and special lines, for using the editing tools and for analysing, checking and designing the system.
• The data editing panels of the lines and components of the electrical system, on the right-hand side of the screen.
• On the left-hand side, a tree structure of the lines and circuits that make up the electrical system can be expanded or contracted.

Supply

Type of supply

This dialogue box allows the program to define the type of main supply for the system. The following options are offered:

• Low voltage network
  This allows a low-voltage network to be defined as the main supply. The nominal voltage to be used must be established, as well as the three-phase and single-phase short-circuit currents, from which the short-circuit impedances of the installation will be determined. Default indicative values are assigned, which are normally provided by the distribution company, but which can be adjusted. These values are:
  • Rated voltage (Phase-neutral / Phase-phase) (V)
  • Three-phase short circuit current (kA)
  • Single-phase short circuit current (kA)

• Electrical substation
  Allows users to define a transformer substation as the main supply. The following data can be indicated:
  • Nominal voltage of the network (kV)
  • Short circuit power (MVA)
  • No. of transformers in parallel /backup
  • Nominal power of the transformer (kVA)
  • Consider operation at full load (optional)
    With this option, the calculation current of the transformer line is obtained from its rated power, instead of taking the power of the loads it feeds.
  • Short circuit voltage and losses of the transformer (Depending on the power / User-defined)
  • Voltage in the secondary circuit (Phase-neutral / Phase-phase) (V)

• Insulated generator set
  Allows users to define a stand-alone generator set as the main supply. The following data can be entered:
  • Type:
    • User-defined:
      • Nominal capacity (kVA)
      • Power factor
      • Subtransient reactance X''d (pu)
    • Manufacturer generator set
  • Consider operation at full load (optional)
  • Rated voltage (Phase-neutral / Phase-phase) (V)

• External supply
  With this option, any type of main supply can be defined generically. The following data can be entered:
  • Peak power of the inverter (VA)
  • Power factor
  • Short circuit voltage percentage (%)

Library elements

Allows users to check and edit the libraries of the following elements of the system:

• Preconfigured switchboards
• Types of receivers
• Prefabricated conduits
• Groups of lines
• Manufacturer generator sets

Each of the element types can be imported and exported to files on disk in a single command. After selecting the elements to be imported, they will be added to the library and placed after the existing ones or, if they are the same, they will replace them.

Configuration

Current calculation

Allows users to choose between a balanced or phase-by-phase calculation of currents:

• Balanced
  In this mode, the three single phase phases attached to a three-phase line are assumed to be balanced. This way of proceeding may be more convenient for design purposes, but it is only an approximation, as total balance is very difficult to achieve.
• By phases
  This mode offers users the possibility of designing the system with an unbalanced phase distribution. The program allows the nomenclature of the phases of a three-phase electrical system to be selected in several ways:
  • R S T / A B C / L1 L2 L3 / U V W / X Y Z / R Y B / R G B

When selecting "By phases", for polyphase lines, the phase connection diagram for each line must be selected.

This way, the analysis is more precise, since the current value in each phase conductor and the neutral cable is calculated, as well as the imbalance level between phases at any point of the system if it exists. The currents flowing through each of the phases and the neutral cable to compensate for the imbalance between them will be taken into account, these currents will be considered when correctly designing the section of each conductor (including the neutral cable) and both the simple voltage drops (phase-to-neutral) and the compound voltage drops (phase-to-phase) will be calculated.

Two-phase lines

Allows users to activate the possibility of defining two-phase lines in the system. Although the two-phase distribution system is no longer in use, this can be useful in refurbishment or renovation projects.

• Allow two-phase lines (optional)

This ensures that, both in the supply line and the intermediate lines, the three-wire distribution is activated (2F + N or 2F + CPN), and that in the final circuits with loads the two-wire supply is activated (2F or 2F+CPN), as well as allowing the definition of two-phase electrical receivers. If the calculation is made "By phases", the program will also allow the two-phase selection in RS, ST or TR.

Elements library

Allows users to customise the permitted values of the following elements to allow their definition in the model or to use them for design purposes. The parameter selection in the line editing panels is conditioned by the editing of the element libraries so that the elements that have not been selected will remain hidden in the line editing:

• Cables
  • Standard (IEC / ANSI)
  • Sections
    Cables under the IEC standard in mm2 can be used, or cables under the ANSI standard in American Wire Gauge (AWG).
• Fuses
  • Nominal current
  • Breaking capacity
• Circuit breakers
  • “Domestic” tab
    • Nominal current
    • Breaking capacity
  • “Industrial” tab
    • Nominal current
• Residual-current devices
  • Nominal current
  • Sensitivity
• Magnetic starters
  • Nominal current
  • Breaking capacity

Analysis options

Leak capacity (per cable)

This section enters the earth leakage capacitance value of a cable (μF/km). This value is used to estimate the leak currents when testing the sensitivity of the residual current circuit breakers installed as protection against indirect contacts.

Selectivity

To carry out the selectivity check, the program allows the following parameters to be defined:

• Selectivity factor between circuit breakers
• Delay period between circuit breakers (ms)

Use breaking capacity of the previous protection elements

IEC 60364-4-43, section 434.5.1. allows a lower breaking capacity of the load zone protective device if another upstream protective device with the required breaking capacity is installed on the supply side.

To consider this, the following options can be marked:

• Use breaking capacity of the previous protection elements (optional)
  • Of the fuses (optional)
  • Of the circuit breakers (optional)

Design options

Sections of the cables

PAllows users to configure the criteria to be considered in the automatic design process carried out by the program for the cable sections. Users can carry out the following:

• Establish minimum sections depending on the nature of the circuits (optional)
  • Lighting
  • Emergency
  • General use outlet
  • Motor
  • Generic
• Comply with the nominal/regulated current of the protection (optional)
  Allows the cable section to be increased to comply with the rated current or regulated current of the protection (IB≤In≤Iz check), by specifying the maximum number of section increments that the program will perform automatically:
  • Maximum number of section increments
• Design for maximum admissible voltage drop (optional)
  Design for maximum admissible voltage drop, specifying the maximum number of section increments that the program is to perform automatically. This criteria considers the limitation of the "Maximum admissible voltage drop" imposed by the user in the edition panel of the groups, lines and circuits:
  • Maximum number of section increments
• Design the protection cable (optional)

Protection devices

Allows users to configure the criteria to be considered in the automatic design process carried out by the program for the installation's protection devices. The following options can be activated:

• Against overloads (optional)
  Designs the overload protection devices, with the added possibility of adjusting the rated current of the protection to the maximum admissible current of the cable:
  • Adjust to the maximum current-carrying capacity of the cable (optional)
• Against short circuits, ultimate breaking capacity (optional)
  Designs short-circuit protection devices to ultimate breaking capacity.
• Against short circuits, service breaking capacity (optional)
  Designs short-circuit protection devices to service breaking capacity.
• Against indirect contacts (optional)
  Designs the rating of protective devices against indirect contacts.

Bridge lines

Allows users to define the characteristics of the bridge lines generated when designing the system.

• Properties for the bridge lines that are generated after designing
  • Cable
    When designing the system, the bridge lines generated are assigned the cable description selected in this section. Subsequently, as part of the design process, the cable section shall be increased, if necessary, to meet the current-carrying capacity criteria.
  • Lengths of the bridge lines
    When designing the system, the generated bridge lines shall be assigned the lengths indicated below:
    • Inlet
    • Between switchgear
    • Outlet

Results presentation

Allows users to configure the presentation of the results obtained by the program in the following ways:

• Results shown after passing by the lines
  • Impedances (optional)
    • At 20 ºC (optional)
    • At the temperature of the conductor at the end of the short circuit period (optional)
    • At the maximum admissible temperature in permanent service of the conductor
  • Short circuit currents (optional)
  • Intensities by phase (optional)
    These options are useful when working in the current per-phase calculation mode.
    • Graph of currents per phase (optional)
• Results shown in the single-line diagram
  • Show the same details as on the drawing (optional)
• Material schedule and export to BC3
  • Material quantities by panel/subpanel (optional)
    With this option, users can launch the material table report not only in a global form for the project but also classified by panels and subpanels.

Drawings of the single-line diagram

Allows you to activate or deactivate the information shown in the single-line diagram drawings for each of the following elements:

• Supply (Supply voltage, Grounding system diagram, Nominal power of the transformer / group, Nominal voltage of the primary)
• Load (Reference, Installed power, Power demand, Calculated power, Power factor, THDI3)
• Switchgear (Description, number of poles, Model (only in elements that have been selected by catalogue), Nominal / regulated current, Short delay or magnetic firing current, Ultimate breaking capacity, Sensitivity, Type of RCD, Residual-current protection class)
• Line (Topology of the installation, Reference, Cable properties, Length, Installation method, Conduit, Installed power, Power demand, Calculated power, Design current, Power factor, Current-carrying capacity of the cable, Simple voltage drop, Accumulated voltage drop, Maximum short circuit current, Minimum short circuit current, Phase to which the line is connected)

Users can also modify and configure the results information displayed at the bottom of the single-line diagram. This information can be displayed under the electrical load or as a properties table. To update these values after modifying the editing data, users must click on the "Analysis" option:

• Results shown in the single-line diagram
  • Information displayed under the single-line diagram
    • Load (Reference, Installed power, Power demand, Calculated power, Power factor, THDI3)
    • Properties table (Reference, Installed power, Power demand, Calculated power, Nominal voltage, Design current, Current-carrying capacity of the cable, Cable properties, Length, Simple voltage drop, Accumulated voltage drop)

Finally, the program allows users to configure the following options:

• Options
  • Text size in the single-line diagram

Single-line diagram

Allows users to configure the symbology used by the program in the single-line diagram for different types of protections, as well as the lines' representation colour:

• Symbol for fuses
• Symbol for circuit breakers
• Symbol for residual-current devices
• Symbol for combined circuit breakers - residual-current devices (optional)
  This option allows the combined combined circuit breaker - residual-current device to be represented by a single symbol combining both features, instead of being represented by two separate symbols.
• Diagram presentation
  This allows the colour of the lines to be chosen according to the cable used. Lines with mm2 or AWG wires can thus be distinguished in the same electrical system:
  • Line with IEC cable
  • Line with ANSI cable

Bridge lines

Reference installation method

This section defines the default reference installation method for analysing bridge lines, specifying its characteristics for both IEC and ANSI cables.

• IEC:
  • Reference method of installation / IEC 60364-5-52, Table A.52.3
  • Ambient temperature
  • Number of circuits or additional wires
• ANSI:
  • Reference method of installation
  • Operating ambient temperature
  • Adjustment factor for more than three current-carrying conductors in a conduit or cable
  • Number of additional current-carrying conductors in the same conduit

Predefined lines/circuits in the toolbar

This option provides several tables in which lines or circuits with predetermined properties can be defined and configured, indicating an icon and a reference for each one of them.

These predefined lines or circuits will appear as new options in the top toolbar of the program interface. This means that more or fewer buttons with their corresponding icons will appear on the toolbar depending on the user's settings.

The aim of this feature is to speed up the entry of installation data, enabling quick access to be generated for the most frequently used lines or circuits.

Predefined lines or circuits can be defined for the following types of elements:

• Groupings
• Lines
• Circuits with concentrated load

The program is highly versatile in the layout of electrical system diagrams in terms of the number of elements, nesting of levels and types of load. The groups and lines are organised based on the multilevel supply and collect the distributed or concentrated load circuits, downstream:

• Group (1)
• Line (2)

Both distributed and concentrated load circuits can be freely arranged in the single-line diagram on multiple levels:

• Circuits with distributed load (1)
• Circuits with concentrated load (2)

In the single-line diagram of the electrical installation, switchboards have a final position equivalent to that of a circuit or a set of groups, lines and circuits.

Replace line with preconfigured switchboard

Allows users to select a line in the diagram and replace it with a preconfigured switchboard defined in the element library.

Substitute line with anticipated panel

Allows users to select a line in the diagram and replace it with an anticipated panel. This requires the definition of the following parameters:

• Active power (kW)
• Power factor

Complementary supply

This option allows users to add an additional complementary supply corresponding to a generator set, in addition to the ordinary supply defined in the "Supply" option of the "Project" group.

The complementary supply through a generator set can provide service to the whole installation, to part of the installation or to start up the emergency services deemed appropriate in the event of failure of the normal supply.

Clicking on the option opens the "Complementary supply" window, which allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Additional busbars
  In this section, users can specify the existence of priority circuits or circuits that are exclusive of the complementary supply:
  • Priority circuits (optional)
    Allows users to define priority circuits that are fed by both the ordinary supply and the complementary supply.
  • Circuits that are exclusive of the complementary supply (optional)
    Allows users to define priority circuits that are fed by both the ordinary supply and the complementary supply.
    
    Both options can be activated, thus having both priority circuits and exclusive circuits. The rest of the circuits, neither priority nor exclusive, will be powered only by the ordinary supply.
    
    When activating any of these options, the program displays a window in which these circuits are configured, including the following data:
    • Description
      • Polarity
    • Internal connections in the switchboard
      • Bridge lines of the bottom switchboard
      • Busbar
    • Simultaneity
    • Manoeuvre
      • Switchgear (Switch disconnector / Circuit breaker / Contactor)

• Generator set
  In this section, users will find the details of the generator set, as well as the cable, switchgear and conduit of the line corresponding to the complementary supply:
  • Description
    • Reference
    • Length
    • Type:
      • User defined
        • Nominal capacity
        • Power factor
        • Subtransient reactance X''d (pu)
      • Manufacturer generator set
    • Consider operation at full load (optional)
    • Conductor
      • Cable (IEC) 
      • Precast conduit
      • Cable (ANSI)
  • Cable
  • Switchgear/Conduit
    By default, this includes:
    • Conduit
    • Circuit breaker

LV/LV transformer

This option allows users to add an intermediate low-voltage-low-voltage transformer along the length of the installation.

This allows the nominal voltage to be raised or lowered, as is the case with the use of a transformer for installations supplied at very low safety voltage (MBTS).

Clicking on this option opens the "LV/LV transformer" window, which allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Description
  • Reference
  • Length
  • Polarity
  • Conductor
    • Cable (IEC)
    • Precast conduit
    • Cable (ANSI)
• Cable
• Internal connections in the switchboard
  • Bridge lines of the top switchboard (optional)
  • Bridge lines of the bottom switchboard
  • Busbar (optional)
• Maximum admissible voltage drop
  • Maximum admissible voltage drop (optional)
• Simultaneity
• Switchgear/Conduit
  By default, this includes:
  • Circuit breaker
  • Conduit
• Transformer
  This section provides details of the transformer data as well as the secondary winding voltage:
  • Polarity
  • Nominal power (kVA)
  • Consider operation at full load (optional)
    With this option, the calculation current of the transformer line is obtained from its rated power, instead of taking the power of the loads it feeds.
  • Short circuit voltage (Depending on the power / User defined (%, kW))
  • Voltage in the secondary circuit (Phase-neutral / Phase-phase) (V)

UPS (Uninterruptible power supply)

This option allows a UPS ( Uninterruptible power supply) to be added to the installation. These systems guarantee the power supply in the event of mains power failure through the use of batteries.

Clicking on it opens the "UPS" window, which allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Description
  • Polarity
  • Busbar
• Simultaneity

The UPS group consists of two lines, which are detailed in the editing window through two tabs, "UPS" and "Bypass":

• "UPS" tab
  This corresponds to the main line. It contains the rectifier, the batteries and the inverter.
• “Bypass” tab
  Corresponds to the bypass line and allows normal battery-free operation.

Each of the lines operates as an independent element, with its own protection elements, analyses and the corresponding checks for correct operation. The following configuration options appear in each one of them:

• Description
  • Reference
  • Length
  • Conductor
• Cable
• Internal connections in the switchboard
  • Bridge lines of the top switchboard (optional)
  • Bridge lines of the bottom switchboard (optional)
• Maximum admissible voltage drop
  • Maximum admissible voltage drop (optional)
• Switchgear/Conduit
  By default, this includes:
  • Circuit breaker
  • Conduit
  • UPS (in the main line)
    • Power
    • Power factor
    • Short circuit contribution factor
    • THD_I3
  • Diode (in the bypass line)

Capacitor bank

This option allows a capacitor bank to be added to the installation. The capacitor bank can be installed to improve the power factor of a group of circuits collectively. This is useful in installations where the resulting power factor is less than 1.

Clicking on it opens the "Capacitor bank" window, which allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Description
  • Reference
  • Length (m)
  • Target power factor
  • Conductor
• Cable
• Internal connections in the switchboard
  • Bridge lines of the top switchboard (optional)
• Maximum admissible voltage drop
  • Maximum admissible voltage drop (optional)
• Additional cable length
  With this option, users can enter a value that supplements the circuit length for the total cable measurement. This is not taken into account for the design:
  • Length (m)
• Switchgear/Conduit
  By default, this includes:
  • Circuit breaker
  • Conduit

Cables can be defined in the "Cable" section, located on the left-hand side of the editing panels for lines, circuits, panels and special lines.

The definition options available in this section vary depending on whether a "Cable (IEC)" or "Cable (ANSI)" is defined in the "Conductor" option in the "Description" section of the line, circuit, switchboard or special line. They are as follows:

Defining IEC cables

If an IEC standard cable is defined, the program allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Nominal voltage (0,6/1 kV / 450/750 V / 300/500 V)
• Material (Copper/Aluminium)
• Insulation
• Reinforcement (optional)
  • Selecting the reinforcement material
• Roof (optional)
  • Selecting the reinforcement material
• Fire reaction class
• Phase
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor
• Neutral
  This can be "The same as the phase" or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor
• Protection
  This can be "The same as the phase", "Without conductor" ( if there is no need for the protective conductor distribution) or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor
• Protective earth and neutral (PEN)
  Only available in polarity 3F + CPN, 2F + CPN or F + CPN. This can be "The same as the phase", "Without conductor" or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor

By clicking on the "Consult selection" option, a panel is displayed which provides clarification about the data entered, as well as a current-time graph of the thermal resistance of the cable.

Defining ANSI cables

If a cable is defined under the ANSI standard, the program allows the following parameters to be configured:

• Voltage rating (0,6/1 kV / 450/750 V / 300/500 V)
• Conductor material (Copper / Aluminium)
• Insulation
• Maximum operating temperature
• Conduit installation (Magnetic / Not magnetic)
• Phase
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor
• Neutral
  This can be "The same as the phase" or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor
• Protection
  This can be "The same as the phase", "Without conductor" ( if there is no need for the protective conductor distribution) or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conduct
• Protective earth and neutral (PEN)
  Only available in polarity 3F + CPN, 2F + CPN or F + CPN. This can be "The same as the phase", "Without conductor" or "Other":
  • Single-core / Multi-conductor
  • Number of conductors per pole x Section of the conductor

By clicking on the "Consult selection" option, a panel is displayed which provides clarification about the data entered, as well as a current-time graph of the thermal resistance of the cable.

Creating prefabricated conduit types

The definition of the prefabricated ducts available in each job can be done through the "Project" group in the toolbar of the general interface, then selecting the "Element libraries" option.

The options available in the panel for creating prefabricated conduit types are as follows:

• Description
  • Reference
  • Assigned current (A)
  • Assigned insulation voltage (kV)
  • Material (Copper / Material)
  • External dimensions (mm)
• Impedances
  • Phase impedance 20ºC (mΩ/m)
  • Neutral impedance (The same as the phase / Other (mΩ/m)) 
  • Protective conductor impedance (The same as the phase / Other (mΩ/m)) 
  • Default loop impedance P + PE (mΩ/m)
  • Default loop impedance P + N (mΩ/m)
• Short circuit
  • Maximum short-time current in three-phase short circuit (kA)
  • Maximum short-time energy in three-phase short circuit (MA2 s)
  • Maximum peak current in three-phase short circuit (kA)
  • Maximum short-time current in short circuit P + N (kA)
  • Maximum peak current P + N (kA)
  • Maximum short-time current in short circuit P + PE (kA)
  • Maximum peak current P + PE (kA)
• Temperature factor
  Allows users to access a table in which a value of the factor is applied for each temperature value:
  • Temperature (ºC)
  • Factor

The program allows users to import predefined types of prefabricated conduits using the options on the right-hand side.

Using prefabricated conduits in lines or circuits

Then, in order to use a busbar trunking conduits for lines, circuits, switchboards or special lines, the "Busbar" option must be selected in the "Conductor" section under the "Description" section when entering or editing the "Precast conduit" option.

Selecting the "Type" of prefabricated conduit provides a direct display of the most representative parameters of the selection made. This makes it easier to find out the properties of the selected library element:

• Assigned current
• Assigned insulation voltage
• Phase impedance 20ºC

Furthermore, the program needs the following parameter to be defined:

• Ambient temperature (ºC)

Bridge lines of the top switchboard

• Inlet (A)
  They represent the sections of cable that supply the switchgear input of the line. Activating this option only makes sense when the input bridges of the lines start from a busbar located in the line immediately above. In this case, the busbar would act as a current distributor, causing the sections of the bridges (S1) to be reduced compared to the output bridge of the line above (S2).

• Between switchgear (B)
  They represent the cable sections that connect elements of the same line arranged in series. Activating this option only makes sense if there are at least two devices for the same line in the same box.

Bridge lines of the bottom switchboard

• Between switchgear (C)
  They represent the cable sections that connect elements of the same line arranged in series. Activating this option only makes sense if there are at least two devices for the same line in the same box.

• Outlet (D)
  They represent the cable sections that connect the switchgear arranged at the output of the line with the elements that are located downstream of it (busbars, protection devices, manoeuvring elements, etc.).

Entering bridge lines

Bridge lines are entered in the program in the "Internal connections in the switchboard" section using the editing panel for groups, lines, circuits, switchboards, special lines and supplies. From here, users can activate the following checkboxes, which are available depending on the element being edited:

• Bridge lines of the top switchboard
• Bridge lines of the bottom switchboard
• Bridge lines (only in groups)

For greater clarity on the concept of bridge lines, this section includes an aid that details the different bridge lines that may be present in the switchboards that make up the electrical installation.

Checking bridge lines

Checks are carried out on the ampacity and coordination between conductors and the overload protection devices on the bridging lines so that the maximum admissible current of the cable forming the bridge line is above the rated current of the protection device protecting it.

Designing bridge lines

When designing the electrical installation, it is also possible to design the overload bridge lines (heating).

Furthermore, the bridge lines that have not been activated manually in each of the lines belonging to the electrical installation can be generated automatically with the "Generate bridge lines" option. Checking this option enables the design of the installation's bridge lines depending on the busbar layout (in which case the inlet lines to the protection devices will be activated) and the series connection of the switchgear (in which case the bridge lines between switchgear will be activated).

The default cable type and lengths assigned for the automatically generated bride lines are set in the "Design options" of the "Project" group.

To use a busbar on the lines, in the "Internal connections in the switchboard" section of the entry or editing panel, the "Busbar" option must be selected.

This can be used to access a busbar entry assistant, which has four tabs: "Enter", "Installation", "Brackets" and "Bars":

“Enter” tab

This tab details the common use of busbars and the checks carried out on them in the program.

“Installation” tab

Allows users to describe the general parameters of the busbar installation:

• Description
  • Altitude
  • Installation method
  • Type of connector
  • Medium in which the bars are installed
  • Number of bars per phase
  • Busbar orientation
  • Separation between bars of different phases [d] (cm)

“Brackets” tab

The number, geometry and properties of the busbar brackets as well as the short-circuit duration time can be set:

• Brackets
  • Number
  • Separation in the same bar (cm)
  • Height [H] (cm)
  • Mechanical resistance (daN)
  • Maximum allowable temperature (ºC)
• Short circuit duration period
  Unless specified otherwise, the program uses the short circuit duration period corresponding to the current to which the protection of the line reacts. These periods are usually short, hence, to obtain a safer design, the instructions of the IEC or ANSI can be followed and introduce values between 1 and 3 seconds.
  • Failure duration (User defined (sec) / Provided by the protection)

“Bars” tab

Allows the material, surface and section of the busbars to be adjusted:

• Conductor
  • Material
  • Surface (Bare / Painted)
• Transverse section
  • Width of each bar [a] (cm)
  • Thickness of each bar [a] (cm)

Once the busbar has been defined, the program represents it in the single-line diagram with a thicker horizontal line.

Switchgear and conduits can be defined in the "Switchgear/Conduit" section, located on the right-hand side of the editing panels for groups, lines, circuits, switchboards and special lines.

A table can be used to insert, delete or reposition different types of switchgear at the head or foot of each line.

The switchgear available in the program and the conduit definition options are as follows:

• Scope of use: Domestic or analogous (IEC 60898)
  • Nominal current (A)
  • Breaking capacity (kA)
  • Curve
  • Polarity (optional)
  • Residual-current device protection (optional)
    • Sensitivity
    • Type
    • Class
  • Surge protector for permanent overvoltages (optional)

• Scope of use: Tertiary (IEC 60947-2)
  • Nominal current (A)
  • Breaking capacity (kA)
  • Service breaking capacity (25% / 50% / 75% / 100%)
  • Curve (B / C / D)
  • Polarity (optional)
  • Residual-current device protection (optional)
    • Sensitivity
    • Type
    • Class
  • Surge protector for permanent overvoltages (optional)

• Scope of use: Industrial (IEC 60947-2)
  • Nominal current (A)
  • Regulation of the nominal current (optional)
    As well as setting the nominal current of the device, this value can be regulated by entering the regulation value in the switchboard.
    • Regulation factor of the rated current
  • Short circuit firing factor
    The short circuit firing factor shall define the position of the vertical part of the firing curve of the device as a result of multiplying the value of the regulated current by the short circuit firing factor.
  • Category
    The device category is used to define the last step of the intensity/time graph.
    • A (without delay)
    • B (with delay)
      • Short delay period (s)
      • Short-time current-carrying capacity (kA)
  • Ultimate breaking capacity (kA)
  • Service breaking capacity
    It is set as quartiles of the ultimate breaking capacity:
    • 25% / 50% / 75% / 100%
  • Curve (B / C / D)
  • Polarity (opcional)
  • Residual-current device protection (optional)
    • Sensitivity
    • Type (Instantaneous / Selective)
    • Clase (AC / A / A 'Si' / B / B 'Si')
  • Surge protector for permanent overvoltages (optional)

By clicking on the "Check selection" option, the intensity-time curve corresponding to the characteristics entered is displayed.

Modular residual-current device

• Configuration: Modular
  • Nominal intensity (A)
  • Sensitivity
  • Type (Instantaneous / Selective)
  • Class
    • AC
    • A
    • A 'Si' (super-immunised)
    • B
    • B 'Si' (super-immunised)
    • AC / A / A 'Si' / B / B 'Si')

Residual current relays with toroids

To extend the selection of residual-current device protection with a higher nominal current, the program has the option to select residual-current device protection by means of a toroidal device linked to its corresponding trip relay.

• Configuration: Relay + Toroid
  • Nominal intensity (A)
  • Sensitivity
  • Type (Instantaneous / Selective)
  • Class
    • AC
    • A
    • A 'Si' (super-immunised)
    • B
    • B 'Si' (super-immunised)
  • Toroid diameter (mm)
    This is the diameter required to cover the cables to be protected.

Fuse

Like the circuit breaker, fuses are generally used to protect the line against overcurrents and short circuits.

The program can be used to define fuses in a group, line or circuit by indicating the following characteristics:

• Type (gL/gG / aM)
• Nominal current (A)
• Breaking capacity (kA)

Magnetic starter

The magnetic starter is the element that is usually fitted for overcurrent and short-circuit protection on lines feeding motor loads.

The program can be used to define magnetic starters in a line or a circuit by specifying the following characteristics:

• Nominal current (A)
• Breaking capacity (kA)

Surge protector for transient overvoltages

The program can be used to define surge protector for transient overvoltages (protection device for overvoltages of atmospheric origin) in a group, a line or a circuit by specifying the following characteristics:

• Protection
  • Type (1+2 / 1 / 2 / 3)
  • Maximum discharge current (kA)
  • Protection level (kV)
• Circuit breaker
  Used to define the circuit breaker associated with the transient overvoltage limiter, with the same options as when entering it independently.

Capacitor

This option is used to add a capacitor in a circuit to compensate the power factor by specifying the following parameters:

• Target power factor
  The capacitor acts as a source of reactive power which modifies the target power factor of the circuit. To do this, it allows a target power factor to be entered. This is useful in installations where the resulting power factor is less than 1.
• Contactor
  If capacitors are used to improve the power factor of asynchronous motors, the installation must be carried out in such a way that, when the power supply to the motor is cut off, the capacitors are simultaneously disconnected. This can be done by means of a contactor interlocked with the motor protection device. To indicate their existence in the program, the following option must be checked:
  • With contactor (optional)

Conduit for IEC cables

• Defining the reference installation method
  The definition of the reference installation method can be done directly, if available, or by using a data selection wizard:
  • Reference installation method
    If this option is selected, the program allows users to specify the reference installation method directly.
  • IEC 60364-5-52, Table A.52.3
    If this option is selected, the program launches a data selection wizard that allows users to indicate the characteristics of the conduit in detail through a series of drop-down menus, and then displays the corresponding reference installation method with these data according to the aforementioned table of the standard:
    • Installation
      Indicates the conduit's characteristics:
      • Type of cable (Isolated / Single-core / Multi-core)
      • Situation (Surface / Interior (fixed) / Building opening / Buried)
      • System (Ducts / Cable trunking (including mouldings) / Directly fixed in masonry)
    • Reference installation method (IEC 60364-5-52, Table A.52.3)
      Displays the reference installation method (IEC 60364-5-52, Table A.52.3) corresponding to the selected data.

The following information is also required in any of the cases mentioned above:

• Air temperature (ºC)
• Number of circuits or additional wires

Conduit for ANSI cables

In this case, the program offers a choice between the following installation methods:

• Underground in duct / Underground directly buried / Aboveground in trays / Aboveground in conduits / Free air / Supported on a messenge

The following parameters are also defined:

• Operating ambient temperature (ºC)
• Adjustment factor for more than three current-carrying conductors in a conduit or cable
  This parameter allows users to manually edit the number of current-carrying conductors in a single conduit in order to adjust the cable ampacity correction factor according to table 310.15(B)(3)(a) of the NEC (National Electrical Code) standard. This selection will be reflected later in the cable ampacity justification report.
• Number of additional current-carrying conductors in raceway

On the left-hand side, the program displays a table with the "Project requirements", indicating the reference of each of the lines or circuits identified and a mark indicating whether or not each of them complies with the requirements of the diagram developed in the program.

If there are project requirements generated from the information that may exist in the BIM project, through the "Generate a single-line diagram that meets the project requirements" option, available at the bottom of this section, the program can import and automatically generate a single line diagram that satisfies them. In this process, the existing single-line diagram is deleted and generated again.

1. The measuring length must be complied with for lines belonging to feeder installations and power supply lines to switchboards or sub-switchboards.

2. For circuits belonging to switchboards and when circuits with a concentrated load are chosen, that the total active power demand of the circuit and the measurement length are complied with.

3. For circuits belonging to switchboards and when circuits with a distributed load are chosen, apart from the active power demanded and the measurement length, that the definition and distribution of each of the loads along their supply circuit are complied with, and for each of the loads that their electrical characteristics are complied with.

It is worth mentioning that in order to meet the requirement for the measurement length of a circuit, the sum of the calculation length plus the sum of the additional length must be equal to or greater than the required length. Both lengths are present in the edit panel of a circuit, as shown in the image on the right.

Analysis

Clicking on this option launches all the code-checking processes implemented by the program. This internally checks whether the parameters that have been entered to design the system are within the criteria permitted by the current codes.

The result is a direct display on the single-line diagram of all lines with errors or warnings.

In the left panel, the tree view of the installation is also complemented by visual indications on the lines showing errors and warnings.

When clicking on a line in the single-line diagram, a window appears showing all the checks that have been carried out for that particular line.

Those checks that are compliant are marked with a green check mark; those that are not compliant are marked with a red cross; and those with a warning are marked with a yellow triangle with an exclamation mark.

By selecting any of the checks that do not comply with the codes, at the bottom of the window it is possible to view the check carried out and the reason for non-compliance with the code.

All checks are justified by the code from which the relevant criteria have been extracted.

Design

The program also offers the option of carrying out a preliminary design of the installation's lines. To do this, using the current expected to flow through the conductor as a reference, it establishes a section so that the maximum current permitted by this section exceeds the expected current. In the same way, it tries to determine a nominal current of the line's switchgear so that it is higher than the foreseen current but lower than the maximum admissible current for the cable.

Clicking on the option opens the "Design" window, which allows users to select the following configuration options:

• Sections of the cables (optional)
  The sections of the cables are designed according to the admissible current (heating), while also considering the minimum sections specified in the regulations, depending on the type of line. The cable sections can be designed
  • From the minimum section / As of the selected section
• Protection devices (optional)
  The protection devices (circuit breakers, fuses and magnetic starters) are sized by rated current and breaking capacity. Protective devices can be designed:
  • From the minimum value / From the selected value
• Conduits (optional)
  The size of the conduit is designed, but the type of conduit entered (conduit or protection channel) is not modified. The design algorithm allows these dimensions to be established automatically according to the number of contained conductors and the installation conditions. Conduits can be designed:
  • From the minimum dimensions / As of the selected dimensions
• Bridge lines (optional)
  As part of the design process, bridge lines can be generated, the definition of which is necessary depending on the arrangement of busbars (in which case the input bridge lines to the protection devices will be activated) and the series connection of the switchgear (in which case the bridge lines between switchgear will be activated). To do this, the "Generate bridge lines" option must be checked.
  
  The sections of the bridge lines are designed based on the ampacity (heating). Bridge lines can be designed:
  • From the minimum dimensions / As of the selected dimensions

When users don't want the design to change the characteristics entered on a particular line or the characteristics of the protection elements of that line, the possibility to lock the design of that line or that element is provided.

To do this, the desired line is selected and the design is locked by pressing the padlock icon in the top right-hand corner of the corresponding box (it can be unlocked [open padlock] or locked [closed padlock]).

When this operation is carried out, padlock icons may appear on the single-line diagram next to each span of the circuit.

The icon can be red   (indicating that the user has locked the design of an element of the switchgear or the design of the line routing), or green  (indicating that the user has locked the design of the cable section of that span).

Consult the checks carried out

Allows users to consult the checks made in the last analysis carried out in the job. After selecting the option, users can click on each of the lines to access a window for consulting the checks carried out on them.

As this action does not analyse or update the results, it speeds up the checking and modification of parameters.

If any modifications have been made to the elements in the system, the "Analysis" option must be used for the program to update the displayed results.

Short-circuit analysis

CYPELEC analyses short-circuit currents using the symmetrical components method in accordance with the IEC 60909 standard. This method, based on Thevenin's theorem and applicable to all types of networks up to 230 kV, consists of the induction of an equivalent voltage source at the short-circuit point and the replacement of each element of the fault loop by its corresponding direct, inverse and zero sequence impedances. Once this system has been established, the short-circuit current is obtained at the same point where the "virtual" voltage source was placed.

Thanks to its remarkable analytical aspect and higher accuracy compared to other procedures, it is the best tool for analysing system defects.

Scenarios for the analysis of short-circuit currents

The maximum and minimum short-circuit currents are checked for each of the established supply scenarios, if there is more than one, so that the protective devices ensure short-circuit protection for all power supply sources.

Calculating currents by unbalanced phases

When designing a three-phase electrical system, it is often assumed that the distribution of the loads in each of the phases will be balanced. This way of proceeding may be more convenient when considering the design, but it is only an approximation, as it is very difficult to achieve total balance. The possibility of designing the system with an unbalanced phase distribution makes it possible to select the phase to which each of the loads is connected. This makes it possible to carry out a preliminary study of the load distribution and avoid imbalances between phases that could affect the correct functioning of the system.

Furthermore, if the proposed system presents any imbalance between phases, the program will carry out all the relevant checks in order to model the real behaviour of the lines. In this sense, the currents circulating through each of the phases and the neutral phase will be taken into account to compensate for the imbalance between them, these currents will be considered when correctly designing the section of each conductor (including the neutral phase) and both the simple voltage drops (phase-to-neutral) and the compound voltage drops (phase-to-phase) will be calculated.

Not only does the selected starter affect the calculation, but it is also reflected in the single-line diagram with its corresponding icon.

Checking results on screen ("Single-line" tab)

After carrying out the analysis, the program displays the analysed results and magnitudes on the screen by means of a drop-down tooltip that appears when the cursor hovers over an element of the system.

Details on the elements in the single-line diagram represented on the screen can also be displayed in the same way as in the drawing representation.

Reports by element ("Single-line" tab)

In the "Single-line" tab, by clicking on each element, the program can be used to consult the analysis reports and the detailed checks carried out on the element.

Each of the checks and the complete list of reports can be printed directly, or HTML, PDF, TXT, RTF or DOCX files can be generated with their contents.

VViewing checks ("Tree" tab)

The "Tree" tab includes a panel for viewing the checks carried out on each line.

To access the corresponding check report, click on the "Consult checks" option or double-click on the check to be displayed with the left mouse button.

• Material schedule
  Displays a report with the material schedule used in the system. The data on circuit breakers, fuses, magnetic starter, starters, differential switches, cables, conduits and other elements in the installation (such as meters or junction boxes) are organised in a series of tables that include the following information:
  • Code
  • Unit
  • Description
  • Quantity

Drawings of the single-line diagram in DWG, DXF or PDF format

This allows users to print the job drawings of the single-line diagram on any graphic peripheral that is configured on the computer, or to create DWG, DXF or PDF files.

The following options can be configured when editing the drawing:

• Type
• Dimensions
  • Adjust the paper size to the scale
    This way, through the scale, the desired size for the diagram can be selected, and the paper dimensions will be automatically adjusted for the layout.
  • Adjust the scale to the paper size
    This way, the desired print format can be defined in order to frame the diagram in the formats supported by the printer. The program optimises the management of the free spaces in the diagram plan to allow a larger size in the texts that define the properties of each line. Thus, the drawing-text set reduces or increases its size to adjust its dimensions to those of the chosen paper format. An appropriate paper format should be selected, as too small a paper format could lead to an excessive reduction of the text, which would make it difficult to read.
• Scale
• Drawing configuration
  • Detail of the single-line diagram
    Three options are included in the single-line diagram drawing editing dialogue box to specify and configure the level of detail of the single-line diagram:
    • Complete
      The complete single-line diagram is shown on a single drawing.
      • Detail of each preconfigured switchboard separately (optional)
    • By switchboard/sub-switchboard
      With this option, each switchboard and sub-switchboard is detailed separately in the single-line diagram. The program adds the reference of the particular switchboard or sub-switchboard, starting with its general protections.
    • Divide depending on configuration
      In this case, the division of the single-line diagram can be edited to specify the maximum number of levels and lines:
      • Maximum number of levels
        This parameter refers to the maximum number of vertical levels to be detailed and is related to the depth of the diagram.
      • Maximum number of lines
        This parameter refers to the maximum number of lines/circuits to be represented horizontally and is related to the width of the diagram.
• Details

Update

Updates information contained in models previously imported into the project or import new models if desired.

Share

Export the system information developed with CYPELEC to BIMserver.center to share it with other users, including the system's quantities and analysis reports.

During the export process, users can define information related to the identification of the files to be exported and the types of files that are generated:

• Name
• Description
• Additional files
  • Quantities (optional)
  • Reports (optional)

Direct connection to other programs

CYPELEC offers a direct connection option with Open BIM tools that allow users to continue their work.

• High-voltage
  Allows work to be continued with CYPELEC Networks. This program receives the LV system's total power and considers it a point load for network analysis.