20050720Decision memo.pdf

DECISION MEMORANDUM
TO:COMMISSIONER KJELLANDER
COMMISSIONER SMITH
COMMISSIONER HANSEN
COMMISSION SECRETARY
COMMISSION STAFF
FROM:DON HOWELL
DATE:JULY 19,2005
SUBJECT:TEMPORARY AND PROPOSED STRAY VOLTAGE RULES,
DOCKET NO. 31-6101-0501
In March 2005, the Idaho Legislature passed and the Governor signed the Stray
Current and Voltage Remediation Act codified at Idaho Code ~ 61-801 et seq. The Act became
effective March 28 , 2005. 2005 Idaho Sess. Laws, Chpt. 189, ~ 2. Idaho Code ~ 61-803
requires that the Commission promulgate temporary and proposed rules establishing uniform
procedures and protocols for the measurement of stray current or voltage within six months.
May 4, 2005, the Commission caused to be published in the Administrative Bulletin a Notice of
Negotiated Rulemaking. The first negotiation workshop was held June 7, 2005. Parties
participating in the negotiated rulemaking include: Idaho Power, the Milk Producers of Idaho
Idaho Dairyman s Association, and the Commission Staff. Following several meetings, the
parties have generally reached agreement on a draft set of rules. The negotiated rules are
attached for your review and approval.
BACKGROUND
Stray voltage" is a natural phenomenon that can be found at low levels in areas
where electricity is grounded. All electrical systems - including a dairy s on-farm system and a
utility s distribution system - must be grounded to the earth as required by various safety codes
to ensure continuous safety and reliability. Idaho Code ~ 61-802(5)(b). Invariably, some current
flows through the earth at each point where an electrical system is grounded and a small amount
of voltage develops. When a portion of this voltage is measured between two objects that may
I In particular, the National Electrical Safety Code and the National Electrical Code.
DECISION MEMORANDUM
be simultaneously in contact with a dairy cow, it is frequently called "stray voltage.Stray
voltage is not electrocution, direct current, electro magnetic fields (EMFs), or earth currents.
As previously mentioned Idaho Code ~ 61-803 requires that the Commission
promulgate temporary and proposed rules within six months of the effective date of the Act, or
no later than September 28 , 2005. The Commission is specifically authorized to establish
uniform procedures and protocols for the measurement of stray current or voltage. Id.
addition Idaho Code ~ 61-803 provides that the Commission s Stray Voltage Rules shall be
applicable to "dairy producers, utilities, and all persons or entities involved in any way in the
measurement or remediation of stray current or voltage in this state.
THE DRAFT RULES
Attached for your review and approval are the draft Stray Voltage Rules. In addition
to the general housekeeping rules, the draft Rules are divided into four major sections including:
(1) qualifications of persons performing and analyzing stray voltage data; (2) the calibration and
standards of measuring and recording equipment; (3) the six stray voltage tests and the
corresponding forms to record the test data; and (4) analyzing the stray voltage data and
conducting remediation actions, if required.
A. Qualifications of Persons Conducting and Analyzing the Test Data
Rules 31-33 layout the qualifications of persons performing or analyzing the results
of stray voltage tests. Rule 31 provides that either a "professional engineer" or "master
electrician" licensed in any state who has completed at least 48 hours of stray voltage training
and been involved in no fewer than 5 stray voltage investigations, is presumed to be qualified to
conduct the stray voltage tests. In addition, Rule 31.03 permits a technician under the
supervision of a qualified professional or master electrician to conduct the tests provided the
technician has completed eight hours of stray voltage training and been involved in five stray
voltage investigations.
The parties also agree that the analysis of stray voltage data shall be performed by a
professional engineer who has completed 48 hours of stray voltage training and been involved
with 5 stray voltage investigations. Rule 33 allows a person who does not satisfy the
qualifications set out in Rules 31 and 32 to be considered qualified. A sponsoring party must
demonstrate that the individual has sufficient knowledge, skills, experience, training or education
to qualify as a person to offer expert testimony to the Commission.
DECISION MEMORANDUM
B. Equipment Requirements and Calibration
Rules 51-54 set out the requirements for equipment used to measure and record stray
voltage or current. The required resolution and accuracy of measuring equipment is set out in
draft Rule 51. Rule 52 requires that all measuring equipment be calibrated no less than annually.
Calibration shall be performed by either the manufacturer or a laboratory currently certified to
meet the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and International Organization
for Standards (IOS) standards. Rule 52.03 requires that all instruments be field checked for
calibration before initiating any testing. Rule 54 sets out the requirements for a "load box
which is used in Test No.5 (the Load Box Test).
C. The Stray Voltage Tests
The parties agree that six tests be used to detect and measure stray current or voltage.
The six tests were designed to be performed in series. The six tests (in order of testing sequence)
are: (1) the Cow Contact Test; (2) the 48-Hour Test; (3) the Primary Profile Test; (4) the
Secondary Neutral Voltage Drop Test; (5) the Load Box Test; and (6) the Signature Test.
Rule 71.02 provides that Tests 1 (Cow Contact) and 2 (48-Hour) shall be performed
first to determine the presence and level of stray voltage. The Cow Contact Test is performed at
locations reasonably likely to demonstrate the presence or absence of stray voltage or current.
The 48-Hour Test is a long-term test used to determine whether the utility or the dairy side of the
system is contributing to recorded current or voltage at specific times of day. If the results from
these first two tests indicate that stray voltage does not exceed the statutory preventive action
level (PAL) of 1.0 volts or 2.0 milliAmps of current, then the utility has no further testing or
remediation obligations. See Idaho Code ~ 61-804. If the PAL is exceeded, then the utility shall
perform the remaining four tests.
Before beginning the testing sequence, Rule 72 sets out the requirements for pre-
testing preparations. These pre-testing requirements include the installing remote reference
grounding rods, inspecting the service transformer, and preparing a sketch or drawing of the
dairy. Rule 72.05 provides that if the persons performing the tests believes there is a significant
and an immediate safety hazard caused by a dairy s non-compliance with the National Electrical
Code, then the obligations to conduct the tests shall be suspended until the hazard is eliminated.
As the Commission will observe, these Rules incorporate various figures or drawings
to enhance the stray voltage testing process. In addition, the Rules contain seven appendices
DECISION MEMORANDUM
used for recording the test data. Electronic data may also be recorded in substantially similar
format per Rule 8.
D. Analyzing the Data and Remediation
Rule 81 discusses analyzing the collected data. If the tests show that a utility is
contributing more than 50% of the PAL, then the utility is required to conduct remediation to
reduce the PAL. Rule 91 requires that remediation be commenced within five business days
which is consistent with Idaho Code ~ 61-804. The utility shall provide the dairy with a copy of
its Stray Voltage Report per Rule 82.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Given the agreement of the parties, Staff recommends that the Commission
promulgate the draft Rules as Temporary Rules and initiate proposed rulemaking procedures.
Staff recommends that the Commission issue a Notice of Temporary and Proposed Rulemaking
to be published in the Administrative Bulletin on September 7. Staff further recommends that
the Temporary Rules become effective on September 14. Comments on the Proposed Rules
would be due by September 28 2005.
COMMISSION DECISION
Does the Commission wish to promulgate the draft Rules as Temporary and
Proposed Rules? Does the Commission wish to make any adjustments or changes to the draft
Rules? Does the Commission desire to issue a Notice of Temporary and Proposed Rulemaking
to be published in the Administrative Bulletin on September 7, 2005? Does the Commission
wish to make the Temporary Rules effective on September 14, 2005?
j)
OVL--
Don Howell
blslN:31-61O1-0501 OecMemo dh
DECISION MEMORANDUM
THE IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION--AGENCY 31
TITLE 61
CHAPTER
RULES FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF
STRAY CURRENT OR VOLTAGE
(THE STRAY VOLTAGE RULES)
IDAP A 31.61.01.000
RULES 0 THROUGH 11 -- GENERAL PROVISIONS
000. LEGAL AUTHORITY (Rule 0).
These rules are promulgated pursuant to the authority of the Idaho Public Utilities Law, Sections
61-515 and 61-520, Idaho Code, and the Stray Current and Voltage Remediation Act, Section
61-803, Idaho Code.
001. TITLE AND SCOPE (Rule 1).
The title of these rules is the Stray Voltage Rules. These rules are applicable to dairy producers
public utilities and all persons or entities involved in any way in the measurement or remediationof stray current or voltage within Idaho.
002. WRITTEN INTERPRET A TIONS--AGENCY GUIDELINES (Rule 2).
The Supervisor of the Commission s Engineering Section is authorized to make and give
informal interpretations of these rules. Written interpretations to these rules in the form of
explanatory comments accompanying the notice of proposed rulemaking that originally proposed
these rules are maintained in the files of the Commission Secretary. The Commission Secretary
may be contacted in writing at the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, PO Box 83720, Boise
Idaho 83720-0074, or may be reached by telephone at [phone]. The Commission
reserves to itself the authority to issue formal declaratory orders construing these rules.
003. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS (Rule 3).
There are no provisions for administrative appeals within the Commission under these rules.
004. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE - REFERENCE TO SAFETY CODES
(Rule 4).
01.Safety Codes. These rules reference two national safety codes.
a. The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) is applicable to public utilities and is
adopted by the Commission in its Safety and Accident Reporting Rules, IDAP A 31.11.01.
b. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is applicable to the installation of wires and
facilities used to convey electric current and to apparatus to be operated by such electric current.
Adoption of the National Electrical Code is found at Section 54-1001 , Idaho Code, and the rules
governing the use of the National Electrical Code, IDAPA 07.01.06.011. (
005. OFFICE - OFFICE HOURS - MAILING, ELECTRONIC AND STREET
ADDRESSES (Rule 5).
01. Office Hours. The principal office of the Commission is in Boise, Idaho. This
office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Saturday, Sunday and legal holidays. The
Commission s telephone number is [phone]. The hearing or speech impaired may reach
the Commission through the Idaho Telecommunications Relay Service by dialing 711.
02. Mailing and Street Addresses. The Commission s mailing address is: Idaho
Public Utilities Commission, PO Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0074. The street address for
the Commission is: 472 West Washington Street, Boise, Idaho 83702-5983. All documents
filed in all proceedings under these rules must be filed with the Commission at one (1) of theseaddresses.
03. Electronic Address.
homepage is: www.puc.idaho.gov.
The Commission electronic address for its Internet
006. PUBLIC RECORDS ACT COMPLIANCE (Rule 6).
Unless specifically exempted from public disclosure by the Public Records Act, Title 9, Chapter
, Idaho Code, all materials filed with the Commission pursuant to these rules are presumed to be
public documents subject to inspection, examination and copying. Whenever a party believes
that information contained in pleadings or other documents are trade secrets, confidential or
otherwise exempt from public disclosure, the attorney of such party must state in writing that the
information is protected by law from public inspection examination or copying, citing the
specific grounds and legal authority for that assertion. The Commission will treat confidential
information in compliance with its Rules of Procedure, IDAP A 31.01.01.067. (
007. LIBERAL CONSTRUCTION (Rule 7).
These rules will be liberally construed to secure just, speedy and economical determination of allissues presented to the Commission.
008. PRACTICE AND PROCEDURES - FORMS (Rule 8).
All proceedings under these rules will be conducted in accordance with the Commission s Rules
of Procedure, IDAP A 31.01.01. Forms used for recording voltage or current measurements
under these rules appear in the Appendices. Subject to prior approval by the Commission
spreadsheets or electronic forms in substantially similar format and containing all relevant data
may be used. Calculations may be automated as part of these electronic forms. (
009. ABBREVIATIONS (Rule 9).
Abbreviations or acronyms used in these rules are defined where they appear.
010.DEFINITIONS (Rule 10).
01. Adequate Remediation. "Adequate remediation" means corrective action taken
by a utility which results in, and is reasonably likely to sustain, a reduction of stray current or
voltage attributable to the utility s distribution system to a measured level that is fifty percent
(50%) or less of the preventive action level.
02. Ampere. "Ampere" is a unit of measure of current. A milliAmpere is one-one
thousandths (111 000) of an ampere.
03.Commission. "Commission" means the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
04. Cow Contact Points. "Cow contact points" means any two (2) points on
electrically conductive materials in a dairy which a dairy cow may (in its normal environment)
unavoidably and simultaneously contact. Electrically conductive material may include the
surface(s) that the cow is standing on as one (1) or both cow contact points. (
05. Equipotential Plane (EPP). "Equipotential plane" means an area where wire
mesh or other conductive elements are imbedded in or placed under concrete, bonded to all metal
structures and fixed nonelectrical equipment that may become energized, and connected to the
electrical grounding system to prevent a difference in voltage from developing within the plane.
06. Preventive Action Level (PAL). "Preventive action level" is stray current or
voltage that, when correctly measured, is either:
a. A steady state, root mean square (rms) alternating current (AC) of two (2)
milliAmperes (mA) or more through a five hundred (500) ohm resistor (i., shunt resistor)
connected between cow contact points, as measured by a true rms meter, or; (
b. Any steady state, rms AC voltage of one (1.0) volt or more across (in parallel with)
a five hundred (500) ohm resistor (i., shunt resistor) connected between cow contact points, asmeasured by a true rms meter.
07. Primary System. "Primary System" is a term that describes the high voltage
utility electrical system including the generation, transmission and distribution systems. It also
refers to the high voltage side of a distribution transformer.
08. Secondary System. "Secondary system" means the low-voltage utility electrical
system on the secondary side of a distribution transformer. The dairy s on-farm system begins
on the dairy s side of the metering points, except for dairies metered on the high voltage side of
the transformer(s). In the case of dairies metered on the high voltage side, the on-farm system
begins at the transformer s low-voltage lugs.
09. Service Provider. Service provider" means any person, company or other legal
entity providing stray voltage or current testing, consulting, measurements, analysis services
construction, or hardware.
10. Shunt Resistor. Shunt resistor" is a physical resistor or combination of resistors
used to simulate a dairy cow during the measurement of cow contact voltage. As used in these
rules, a shunt resistor shall be five hundred (500) ohms plus or minus two percent (+/- 20/0).
11. Source Resistance. Source resistance" means that portion of resistance in the
circuit, other than the resistance of the cow, when the cow is completing a circuit between
contact points. Body-to-metal contact resistance and hoof-to-earth resistance may represent aportion of the source resistance.
12. Steady State. Steady state" is the value of a current or voltage after an amount of
time has passed where all transients have decayed to a negligible value.
13.Stray Current or Voltage. Stray voltage or current" is:
a. Any steady state, sixty (60) hertz (Hz) (including harmonics thereof) root mean
square (rms) alternating current (AC) less than twenty (20) milliAmperes (mA) through a five
hundred (500) ohm resistor (i., shunt resistor) connected between cow contact points, asmeasured by a true rms meter; or
b. Any steady state, sixty (60) Hz (including harmonics thereof), rms AC voltage of
less than ten (10) volts, across (in parallel with) a five hundred (500) ohm resistor (i., shunt
resistor) connected between cow contact points, as measured by a true rms meter. (
c. Stray current and voltage is a normal, inherent and unavoidable result of electricity
traveling through grounded electrical systems, including a dairy producer s on-farm system and a
utility s distribution system. These systems are required by the National Electrical Code (NEC)
and the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) to be grounded to the earth to ensure safety andreliability.
d. Unless the context otherwise requires, the term "stray voltage" shall mean straycurrent or stray voltage.
14. Tests, Measurements, Procedures and Analysis. Tests, measurements
procedures and analysis" means any or all of the stray voltage testing, measurement, work and
work product defined in these rules.
15. Transient. Transient" or "transient deviation" means a non-steady state increase
or spike in voltage or current. For the purpose of identifying and reporting transients in cow
contact voltage (V cc) or current (Icc), a transient occurs when the recorded maximum V cc or Icc
in a recording interval exceeds two hundred percent (200%) of the steady state V cc or Icc
recorded during the same recording interval.
16. Utility. Utility" means a public electric utility as defined in Section 61-332AIdaho Code.
011. PURPOSE OF RULES - CONFORMANCE TO ELECTRICAL CODE (Rule 11).
These rules standardize the measurement and testing procedures used to measure stray voltage
and current. Standardization of testing will provide a consistent basis for determining the
presence and level of stray voltage in a dairy and how to determine the source of that stray
voltage or current. These rules do not replace existing safety standards embodied in electrical
codes. Any conflict between these rules and the National Electrical Code or the National
Electrical Safety Code shall be promptly brought to the attention of the Commission. Under
these rules, testing is intended to determine:
01. Presence of Stray Voltage. The presence and amount of any stray voltage orcurrent within the dairy.
02.Sources of Stray Voltage. The source( s) of any stray voltage or current detected.
03. Contributions to Stray Voltage. The percent contribution from the utility side
and the dairy side of the dairy service entrance to the total stray voltage or current measured onthe dairy.
012. -- 020. (RESERVED).
RULES 21 THROUGH 30 - APPLICABILITY AND ADMISSABILITY
021. UTILITY (Rule 21).
A utility measuring or testing for stray voltage or current at the request of a dairy producer, as
directed by the Commission or on its own initiative, shall conduct such measurements accordance with these rules.
022.DAIRY PRODUCER (Rule 22).
01. Serving Notice on the Utility. A dairy producer providing written notice to a
utility pursuant to Section 61-804, Idaho Code, shall specify why the dairy producer believes its
dairy cows are being affected by electrical energy attributable to the utility. A dairy producer
may provide such notice with or without first having conducted tests or measurements of strayvoltage.
02. Cooperation. When a written notice is filed with the utility, the dairy is obligated
to make any contact point(s), service panels, grounding rods or other electrical equipment at the
dairy available to the utility for measuring and testing. The utility shall provide reasonable
notice and cooperate with the dairy producer to establish an appropriate time to conduct the tests
and measurements. The dairy shall cooperate with the utility so that all tests and measurements
necessary to identify the existence and magnitude of stray current or voltage, if any, are
completed within fourteen (14) days of the utility s receipt of such notice. (
023. SERVICE PROVIDERS (Rule 23).
Any person performing any stray voltage measurement or test on behalf of a utility or a dairy
shall be deemed a service provider and shall follow these rules.
024. ADMISSIBILITY (Rule 24).
Only tests and measurements made in compliance with these rules shall be admissible before theCommission or in any civil action.
025. - 030. (RESERVED).
RULES 31 THROUGH 40 QUALIFICATIONS OF PERSONS
PERFORMING AND ANALYZING RESULTS OF STRAY VOLTAGE TESTS
031. PERFORMANCE OF TESTS AND MEASUREMENTS (Rule 31).
Measuring and testing for stray voltage under these rules for consideration by the Commission
shall be performed by a qualified testing professional. The following persons are presumed to bequalified testing professionals:
01. Professional Engineer. A professional engineer, licensed in any state, who has
completed no fewer than forty-eight (48) hours of Commission-approved stray voltage training
and who has been involved in no fewer than five (5) prior investigations involving the
measurement or testing of stray voltage.
02. Master Electrician. A master electrician, licensed in any state who has
completed no fewer than forty-eight (48) hours of Commission-approved stray voltage training
and who has been involved in no fewer than five (5) prior investigations involving the
measurement or testing of stray voltage.
03. Technician. A technician who, under the supervIsIon of a person presumed
qualified under Subsections 031.01. and 031.02. above, has completed no fewer than eight (8)
hours of Commission-approved stray voltage training and who has been involved in no fewer
than five (5) prior investigations involving the measurement or testing of stray voltage.
032. DATA ANALYSIS (Rule 32).
Analysis of data under these rules, for consideration by the Commission, shall be performed by a
qualified analyst. A professional engineer, licensed in any state, who has completed no fewer
than forty-eight (48) hours of stray voltage training and who has been involved in no fewer than
five (5) prior investigations involving measurement or testing of stray voltage shall be presumedto be a qualified analyst.
033. PERSONS OTHERWISE QUALIFIED (Rule 33).
A person who does not satisfy the qualifications in Sections 031 and 032 above, may nonetheless
be determined by the Commission to be a qualified testing professional or a qualified analyst if
on motion of any party, the Commission finds that person otherwise possesses the knowledge
skill, experience, training, or education that qualifies that person to offer expert testimony beforethe Commission.
034. -- 050. (RESERVED).
RULES 51 THROUGH 60 - CALIBRATION OF AND EQUIPMENT
USED FOR MEASURING AND RECORDING
VOLTAGE, CURRENT AND RESISTANCE
051. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR STRAY VOLTAGE MEASURING AND
RECORDING EQUIPMENT (Rule 51).
Equipment used for the measurement or testing of stray voltage, current, and resistance shallmeet the following criteria:
01. Resolution and Accuracy. The accuracy and resolution of any instrument used to
measure or record cow contact voltage or current, shall limit the error to five percent (50/0) or less
at one volt (1 V) or two milliAmpere (2mA).
02. Voltage Measurement. Instruments used to measure cow-contact voltage shall be
capable of separating and independently measuring alternating current (AC) and direct current
(DC) voltages. These instruments shall have a minimum internal impedance of ten thousand
(10 000) ohms and shall be capable of measuring the true-rms voltage.
03. Current Measurement. A clamp-on ammeter, a digital multi-meter (DMM) with
clamp-on device, or an in-line ammeter shall be used to measure current between two (2) points.
The meters shall be capable of separating and independently measuring alternating current (AC)
and direct current (DC) and shall be capable of measuring the true-rms current. Care must be
taken to assure that clamp-on ammeters used have the required resolution and accuracy.
04. Resistance Measurement. Resistance shall be measured using either a volt
ohmmeter (VOM) or a DMM. Resolution shall be to the level of one (1) ohm or less when
measuring a resistance of less than one thousand (1 000) ohms. Accuracy shall be within plus or
minus five (5) ohm for a five hundred (500) ohm resistance.
05. Resistance-to-Earth Measurement. Grounding electrode resistance-to-earth
measurements shall be made with a three-point fall-of-potential instrument or a clamp-on
resistance-to-earth tester.
052.CALIBRATION REQUIREMENTS (Rule 52).
01. Measuring Equipment Calibration. All measuring equipment shall be calibrated
according to the manufacturer s recommended calibration schedule, but no less than annually, to
meet the manufacturer specifications for the accuracy and resolution of the equipment.
Measuring equipment shall not be used after its next "calibration due" date for measurements or
tests conducted during a stray voltage investigation. Calibration shall be performed by either: (1)
the manufacturer of the equipment, who shall certify that the equipment meets the
manufacturer s specifications for accuracy and resolution; or (2) a laboratory currently certified
as meeting all applicable Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) andInternational Organization for Standards (ISO) standards.
02. Calibration Certificates. The service provider performing the tests and
measurements shall maintain certificates from the manufacturer or the calibration laboratory
demonstrating compliance with calibration requirements.
03. Field Check. Before voltage or current measurement or testing is performed, the
instrument shall be field-checked by comparing measurements to those of other instruments oragainst a known source.
053. REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING AND RECORDING DEVICES (Rule 53).
Digital recording devices shall be used for the purpose of recording current and voltage for
extended periods, such as the forty-eight (48) hour test. The recording devices shall have the
same level of resolution and accuracy as the meters being used for the measurements.
Monitoring systems, which combine measuring and recording functions in a single instrument
shall have the same level of resolution and accuracy as specified in Section 051. Recording
devices and monitoring systems shall be capable of recording transient deviations of one-tenth
(0.1) second or less in duration from the steady state. Digital recording devices, which have
deviation settings, shall permit the deviation setting to be set "low" enough to meet the resolution
and accuracy requirements in Subsection 051.01 of these rules. All recording devices shall be
able to log the time and date of all data recorded and shall have their internal clockssynchronized.
054. REQUIREMENTS FOR LOAD BOXES (Rule 54).
The load box shall meet the following criteria:
01. VoIts. A load box shall be a primarily non-inductive nominal two hundred forty
(240) volt, resistance heating type load with a minimum nominal full load of eighteen (18)kilowatts (kW).
02. Split-Load. A load box shall be capable of operating at two or more load settings
including approximately fifty percent (50%) and one hundred percent (100%) of the load boxrated total load.
055. - 070. (RESERVED).
RULES 71 THROUGH 80 - TESTING AND
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES
071. STRAY CURRENT OR VOLTAGE TESTS (Rule 71).
Subject to Subsection 071.02 of this rule, there are six (6) tests used to detect and measure straycurrent or voltage.
01. Order of Stray Voltage Tests. The tests shall be performed in the order listed
below. Efforts shall be made to perform the tests under conditions substantially similar to those
conditions existing at the time(s) the dairy producer believes stray voltage to be a problem.
Test 6 - Signature Test.
1 and 2 shall be performed first to determine the
Test 1 - Cow Contact Test;
Test 2 - Forty-Eight (48) Hour Test;
Test 3 - Primary Profile Test;
Test 4 - Secondary Neutral Voltage Drop Test;
Test 5 - Load Box Test; and
02. Testing Sequence. Tests
presence and level of stray voltage.
a. If the results from Tests 1 and 2 indicate that stray voltage does not exceed the
preventive action level (PAL), the utility has no further testing or remediation obligations underthese rules during this test cycle.
b. If the PAL is exceeded, the utility shall perform the remaining four (4) tests. The
utility shall also perform analysis to determine whether the portion of the stray current or voltage
attributable to an off-farm source exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the PAL. (
c. If the PAL is exceeded, and the portion of the stray current or voltage attributable
to an off-farm source does not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the PAL, the utility has no furthertesting or remediation obligations.
d. If the PAL is exceeded, and the portion of the stray current or voltage attributable
to an off-farm source exceeds fifty percent (500/0) of the PAL, the utility shall conduct
remediation pursuant to Section 091.
e. For all testing conducted under these rules, the utility shall have a qualified analystprepare a report pursuant to Section 082.
072. PREP ARA TION FOR TESTING (Rule 72).
The person performing the tests shall perform the following:
01.Remote Reference Grounding Rod.
a. Remote reference grounding rode s) shall be installed and penetrate moist soil to a
depth of thirty (30) inches. When practicable, remote reference rods shall be installed at least
twenty- five (25) feet away from the nearest underground conductive electrical equipment of any
type or at a distance equal to three (3) to four (4) times the buried depth of any metallic structure
connected to the service entrance neutral. The reference ground rod shall be located not closer
than twenty-five (25) feet from the centerline of a primary electrical conductor right-of-way. A
reference rod shall be located not closer than one hundred (100) feet from the edge of atransmission line right-of-way.
b. All remote reference grounding rods shall be checked for "remoteness" prior to
their use for tests or measurements and if found to be insufficiently "remote " a new location for
that reference ground rod shall be found and retested for remoteness. Remoteness of the
reference ground shall be determined by measuring the voltage from the transformer grounding
electrode conductor to the remote reference ground. The resistance-to-earth of the transformer
grounding electrode shall be measured. The grounding electrode current shall be measured.
Remoteness is considered adequate if the measured voltage (transformer grounding conductor to
reference ground, Vp) is within twenty percent (20%) of the voltage calculated by multiplying
the grounding electrode current by the grounding electrode resistance-to-earth. (
c. If the transformer grounding electrode is within twenty-five (25) feet of other
primary or secondary grounding electrodes, this remoteness test shall be conducted at the first
primary system grounding electrode upstream of the transformer that is greater than twenty-five
(25) feet from other primary or secondary system grounding electrodes.
02. Inspecting the Transformer(s). Prior to testing, the utility transformer shall be
inspected, grounding electrode resistance measured, and any repairs necessary for safety be made
and recorded. In the case of a customer-owned transformer, qualified personnel shall inspect the
installation, measure grounding electrode resistance, and make and record any repairs necessary
for safety. Measurements that require contact with utility or customer-owned primary wires or
equipment shall be made by the utility or other qualified personnel.
03. In-Line Ammeters. If in-line or series ammeters are used, they shall be installed
under safe conditions in accordance with the National Electrical Safety Code and the National
Electrical Code with the entire dairy system or the specific circuit to be tested de-energized.
04.Pre-Test Documentation.
a. All pre-test calibration requirements from Section 052 shall be completed anddocumented.
b. A sketch or drawing of the dairy shall be prepared indicating: the location of the
buildings; secondary electrical service panels and secondary feeder systems serving cow contact
areas; transformer(s) and central distribution point; existing grounding electrodes (if known); the
location of all cow contact points to be tested; all remote reference grounding rods; and all
primary and secondary neutral test points used in conjunction with the remote referencegrounding rod(s).
c. A listing of planned test points shall be prepared using the applicable form prior to
beginning each test. Each test shall be listed separately and specific reference numbers shall begiven to each planned test point.
05.Safety .
a. If the service provider reasonably concludes that a dairy s noncompliance with the
National Electrical Code poses a significant and immediate safety hazard which prevents
completion of any test or measurement required by these rules, then the service provider
obligations to proceed under these rules shall be suspended until the hazard is eliminated.
b. At the discretion of the service provider conducting the test, livestock shall be
removed from any area where electrical equipment or wiring is examined or electrical
measurements are taken. Testing may be suspended if the presence of cows or other animals
creates a potential hazard to testing personnel. The locations of electric fences and other
electrified cow control devices shall be noted and de-energized where practical. (
073.TEST 1- COW CONTACT TEST (Rule 73).
01. Purpose. The purpose of this test is to determine the location(s), if any, where stray
current or voltage exceeds the preventive action level (PAL) and to identify the location(s) at
which the cow contact voltage will be recorded in the forty-eight (48) hour test. (
02. Selection of Cow Contact Points. The selection of cow contact points to be tested
shall include a sufficient number of locations reasonably likely to demonstrate the presence of
stray voltage or current, if any.
03. Conducting the Test. The voltage across the shunt resistor or current through the
shunt resistor shall be measured between cow contact points as shown below in Figure 1. The
source resistance shall be calculated during analysis for all cow contact points. (
MeTAl 8T A"" """8
yen. TMe"fr;ft .HOWS 80M1: OR NO
VOLTA.CltRo.. STANCH'ON flU-it 1"0 FLOOR
Weighted Copper Plate, 16
Sq inch minimum
Figure 1 , Cow Contact Test.
a. When using a voltmeter to measure voltage between contact points where one (1)
of those points is the floor surface, the equipment shall be arranged as shown in Figures 1 and 2
using a metal plate, which shall make a high quality conductive contact with the ground or floor.
If the service provider is unsure of having a high quality conductive contact with the floor or
ground, then the procedure described in Paragraph 073.03.c. shall be followed. If necessary,
corrosion shall be removed from the point( s) where test lead( s) make contact with metalequipment.
MU l. TIMETER
At J'O V
500 ohm
Shunt resistor
Figure 2. Cow Contact Voltage Measurement
b. When using an in-line milliAmmeter or a clamp-around milliAmmeter to measure
current between contact points and one of those points is the floor surface or earth, the
equipment shall be arranged as shown in Figure 3, using a metal plate which shall make high
quality conductive contact with the ground or floor. If the service provider is unsure of having a
high quality conductive contact with the floor or ground, then the procedures described in
Paragraph 073.03.c. shall be followed. If necessary, corrosion shall be removed from the
point(s) where test lead(s) make contact with metal equipment.
MILLIAMMETER STEEL PIPE
AC20V
CO""Pu.TE ON .u -lioaeTa' r&..Oolt 08tEA"TH
" .. ". .
5008
. .
Figure 3, Set Up for Measuring Current Cow Contact Point to Ground.
c. A metal plate used to make an electrical contact with the earth or floor shall be of
regular shape (square, rectangular or round), and shall have a surface area equal to or greater
than sixteen (16) square inches (4 inches x 4 inches or equivalent). Place a weight not less than
twenty (20) pounds on the metal plate. This weight shall be applied evenly across the metal plate
and not to the adjacent concrete or earth. Place the metal plate a minimum distance of twelve
(12) inches from any metal equipment making contact with the floor or earth. (i. Where the metal plate is to be placed on a concrete floor, the surface shall be flat.
Clean the floor surface with a wire brush to remove debris that may add excess resistance. Use
water to clean the floor surface at the point where the metal plate will be placed. Place a paper
towel or similar material soaked in saltwater between the metal plate and the concrete floor.
ii. Where the metal plate is to be placed on the ground or earth surface, the surface
shall be flat. Remove any debris and add water to the area, if necessary, to dampen the soil. The
surface of the metal plate that will make contact with the earth shall be clean and free of
corrosion before use. Remove any corrosion, if necessary.
04. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of
and measured values at, each test point. At each cow contact location, an open circuit voltage
reading (Voc) and a voltage with five hundred (500) ohm nominal shunt resistor placed across
the input to the meter (Vshunt) shall be taken. These readings shall be taken with ten (10)
seconds or less time between each reading. Alternatively, a current measurement (Ishunt) may
be taken in place of the voltage reading (V shunt). Data for these test points shall be recorded on
the form in Appendix 1.
05. Source Resistance Calculation. The source resistance (Rsource) shall be
calculated for each cow contact location measured and the value recorded in Appendix 1. The
following formulas shall be used to calculate source resistance.
Rsource =Voc - V shunt X Rshunt
V shunt
Rsource =Voc
- Rshunt
Ishunt
074.TEST 2 - FORTY-EIGHT (48) HOUR TEST (Rule 74).
01. Purpose. The purpose of this test is to determine whether stray current or voltage
exceeds the preventive action level (PAL) at selected location(s) over a forty-eight (48) hour
period. The test also demonstrates whether the primary or secondary sides of the system have a
specific impact on the recorded current or voltage at specific times of day. (
02. Setup. A digitizing data recorder with averaging capability and capable of
detecting and recording transient deviations of one-tenth (0.1) second or less in duration shall beused to record the following:
Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground, Vp.
b. Voltage from secondary neutral in the service panel serving the area of the cow
contact to remote reference ground, V s.
c. Voltage drops (Vps) from primary neutral at the location of connection for Vp to
secondary neutral at the location of the connection for V s.
d. Cow contact current through (Icc) or voltage across a five hundred (500) ohm
resistor at the high voltage point(s) found in Test 1 , Vcc.
03. Measurement Interval. The results of the forty-eight (48) hour test may be highly
indicative of the presence of stray voltage. A recording interval as high as ten (10) seconds may
be used provided that transient deviations of voltage or current of one-tenth (0.1) second or less
in duration of voltage or current are recorded to the maximum ability of the instrument.
04. Measurement at the Cow Contact Point(s). Measurements to the earth or
concrete surface shall be to a metal plate as described in Paragraph 073.03.c. when making
measurements to metal objects, corrosion shall be removed to obtain a low resistance connection.
05. Recording the Data. All of the data gathered by the recording equipment during
the forty-eight (48) hour test including transients shall be downloaded and retained with the
records of the investigation. In addition, the steady-state data shall be summarized in the
investigation report. The recorded data shall be made available to the dairy producer or utility
upon request. The person conducting this test shall record the location of, and measured values
, each test point. The identification of the cow contact point shall be recorded on the form in
Appendix 2. Transient deviations shall be recorded on the supplemental data form, page 3 of 3
in Appendix 2. A plot of the voltage versus time may be substituted for the recording ofmeasured values in Appendix 2.
075.TEST 3 - PRIMARY PROFILE TEST (Rule 75).
01. Purpose. The purpose of this test is to measure or calculate neutral-to-earth voltage
(NEV) for a multi-grounded distribution system.
02. Conducting the Test. The primary profile test requires concurrent measurement
of the ground electrode resistance and current at all primary system ground points within three
quarters (3/4) of a mile on either side of all primary service points serving the dairy, or to the end
of the line if less than three quarters (3/4) of a mile. Alternatively, the voltage between a remote
grounding rod and the primary ground point being tested may be measured. (
a. This test shall be conducted starting at one end of the distribution system and
working toward the other end while checking all branch lines encountered within the specified
distance. Figure 4 below illustrates the procedure.
i. Where the dairy is served by a dedicated tap of less than one half (1/2) mile in
length from a distribution line, the neutral-to-earth voltage shall be measured at each primary
ground along the tap and along the distribution line to a distance of three quarters (3/4) of a mile
in each direction from the point of the tap; or
ii. Where a dairy is served by a dedicated tap that extends more than one half (1/2)
mile from the distribution line, the neutral-to-earth voltage shall be measured at each primary
grounding electrode along the tap and along the distribution line to a distance of one half (1/2)
mile in each direction from the point of the tap.
03. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of
and measured values at, each test point. Data and calculation results for these test points shall be
recorded on the form in Appendix 3.
tr;ir i
...
1Ft 4llf
' , ,,".
lpo Ipn
" '
i '
..,
25 ft
Minimum
"","'--""..
Reference
Ground Rod
0".
meter PRIMARY
"':"
I-ROFU:.EiIji
'"'"-....
NOTE: A voltmeter may also be used
to determine voltage directly
Figure 4.
076.TEST 4 SECONDARY NEUTRAL VOLTAGE DROP TEST (Rule 76).
01. Purpose. This test is used to determine the impact of each secondary service on
the neutral-to-earth (NEV) and cow contact voltages on the dairy under controlled conditions.
02. Conducting the Test. This test shall be performed for all service entrances. A
proxy load of known characteristics (such as a resistive load like a one hundred twenty (120)
volt, fifteen hundred (1 500) watt hairdryer) is required for this test. The proxy load must create
a known and stable current and subsequent voltage drop for each neutral serving a main panel
sub-panel or end-of-service area. All service entrances other than that being tested shall be
turned "off' to perform this test. A diagram showing the connections and measurement pointsfor this test is shown in Figure 5.
..'~;......-'-""'
tested:
POLl! '11'01'"nISCO~E'~'"T
~COH.),AR'Y tQ;UT'RA.LVO.l~TAO8 DROJ' TEST
(/'"; #---. .
~VOL:rAGE
, /
DROP
BA..R.N
BA1;',
DH'Y'J:tR
'("
O",'D
...
Figure 5 , Secondary Neutral Voltage Drop Test Arrangement.
03.Data Collection. The following data shall be collected for each secondary neutral
Gauge and type of neutral wire.
Length of neutral wire.
Neutral current, Isn.
Voltage drop (VDropM) between both ends of the secondary neutral being tested.
e. Cow contact voltage (V cc) or current (Icc) at the same points used in the forty-eight (48) hour test.
Primary neutral at the transformer to reference ground voltage, Vp.
Secondary neutral to reference ground voltage, V s.
04. Measurements. The three (3) voltages (Vcc, Vp and Vs) shall be measured with
the proxy load "off' and "on.Calculated expected voltage drops (VDropC) (see Appendix 5)
shall be compared with measured voltage drops (VDropM). If the measured and calculated
voltage drops differ, further investigation shall be undertaken to determine the source of
additional voltage drop within the circuit. Neutral current shall be measured and recorded withthe proxy load on (Isn).
05. Recording the Data. Any person conducting this test shall record the location of
and measured values at, each test point. Data and calculation results for these test points shall berecorded on the form in Appendix 4.
077.TEST 5 - THE LOAD BOX TEST (Rule 77).
01. Purpose. This test is used to determine the extent to which the primary system
contributes to stray current or voltage at cow contact points. For dairies with three (3) phase
balanced primary service, the service provider shall perform Steps One and Two in Paragraph
077.02.b. below.
02. Conducting the Load Box Test. This test shall be performed at the same time of
day as the time(s) of highest cow contact voltage found in the forty-eight (48) hour test. During
this test, voltage and current shall be measured and recorded at the points indicated in Figure 6.
t..U;t\D BOX: 'rEST
CittNTIl.U, VARD POL:iL
DISCaNN'R'CT
B.A:RN
it"
.....
RIDlI0TE~cn
ROD
Vet
WA..l"ERf'IR
'to. ""oon
----- .-/,/'
"pi
Figure 6, Load Box Test
a. The load box test requires the recording of eight (8) data points during each of the
five (5) test steps. The eight (8) data points that shall be measured or calculated and recorded foreach step are:
Primary line to neutral voltage, V pri .
Load Box Current, lIb.11.
111.Voltage at load box connection to secondary system, Vlb.
Calculate transformer current I p using I
p =
lIb x Vlb
IV.
Vpri
Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground rod
Vp.
vi. Voltage from secondary neutral in the service panel serving the area of the cow
contact to remote reference ground rod, V s.
vii. Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to secondary neutral at the service
panel serving the area of cow contact, Vps.
viii. Cow contact voltage (Vcc) or current (Icc) at the same point(s) used in the forty-eight (48) hour test.
b. Except for dairies with three (3) phase balanced primary service, the following five
(5) test steps shall each be conducted for at least two (2) minutes:
i. Step One: The load box shall be de-energized, the dairy shall remain "" and thedata shall be recorded.
ii. Step Two: The load box shall be de-energized, the dairy shut "off " and the datashall be recorded.
111. Step Three: The load box shall be set to half load, the dairy shut "off " and the datashall be recorded.
iv. Step Four: The load box shall be set to full load, the dairy shut "off " and the datashall be recorded.
v. Step Five: The load box shall be set to full load, the dairy shall be turned "" andthe data shall be recorded.
03. Calculating the K Factor. The K factor is a calculated ratio (VccNs). The K
factor should be less than one (1) because Vcc (cow contact voltage) should be less than Vs (the
dairy ground to reference ground voltage). If the K factor is greater than one (1), then there is
contribution to V cc from sources other than V s.
04. Recording the Data. The person conducting this test shall record the location of
and measured values at, each test point. Data and calculation results for these test points shall be
recorded on the form in Appendix 5.
078.TEST 6 SIGNATURE TEST (Rule 78).
01. Purpose. This test is used to determine the contribution to stray current or voltage
of individual pieces of equipment operating on the dairy. The test is best performed when there
is minimal farm electrical activity.
02. Conducting the Signature Test. During this test, individual pieces of major
current drawing equipment shall be started and stopped. The effects of starting, operating, and
stopping each piece of equipment shall be measured and recorded for a period of operation of at
least fifteen (15) seconds. The person conducting the test shall identify and record the equipment
being tested and record the specific times that the equipment was started and stopped. A
digitizing data recorder with averaging capability shall be used to measure and record the
required electrical data. These measurements shall be taken at the same locations at the dairy
where measurements were taken for the purpose of the load box test and forty-eight (48) hourtest.
Voltage from primary neutral at the transformer to remote reference ground rod
Vp.
b. Secondary neutral at the service panel serving the area of cow contact to remote
reference ground voltage, V s.
c. Primary neutral voltage drop (V ps) from the location of connection for V p to
secondary neutral voltage at the location of the connection for V s.
Cow contact voltage (V cc) or current (Icc) at the pre-selected point.
03. Recording the Data. All of the data gathered by the recording equipment during
the signature test, including transients, shall be downloaded and retained with the records of the
investigation. In addition, the steady-state data shall be summarized in the investigation report.
The recorded data shall be made available to the dairy producer or utility upon request. The
location of all test point(s) shall be recorded on the form in Appendix 6. A plot of the voltage
versus time may be substituted for the recording of measured values on Appendix 6.
079. - 080. (RESERVED).
RULES 81 THROUGH 90 - ANALYSIS AND REPORTING THE DATA
081.ANAL YZING THE COLLECTED DATA (Rule 81).
01. Cow Contact Points. Examine the data recorded for the forty-eight (48) hour test
in Appendix 2 and determine the highest steady state value of cow contact voltage (V cc) or
current (Icc). Determine the value of primary neutral to reference voltage (Vp) that was present
for the highest cow contact value. Record these values on the data sheet of Appendix 7. These
values shall be identified as "test cow contact voltage or current" (V cc 48hr or Icc 48hr) and
primary neutral to reference voltage at time of maximum cow contact voltage or current"
(Vp 48hr). The three (3) data sets created from the values are:
a. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current
measured during the load box test (Appendix 5) with the farm power "off' and the load box
off' shall be recorded on the data sheet of Appendix 7 as V p OFF and either V cc OFF orIccOFF.
b. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current
measured with the load box set at one half load shall be recorded on the data sheet of Appendix 7
as V p HALF LOAD and either V cc HALF LOAD or Icc HALF LOAD.
c. The primary to reference ground voltage and the cow contact voltage or current
measured with the load box at maximum shall be recorded on the data sheet of Appendix 7 as
V p FULL LOAD and either V cc FULL LOAD or I cc FULL LOAD. ) T
02. Contributions to Stray Voltage or Current for Single Phase Dairies. The utility
contribution to cow contact voltage or current shall be determined using the following formula.
Compare the values determined to the preventive action level (PAL).
Utility contribution to
Vp48 - VpHALFcow contact voltage = x (V cc FULL - V cc HALF) + V cc HALF
VpFULL - VpHALF
Utility contribution to
Vp48 - VpHALFcow contact current = (Icc FULL - Icc HALF) + Icc HALF (
VpFULL - VpHALF
03. Contributions to Stray Voltage or Current for Three (3) Phase Dairies. The
utility contribution to cow contact voltage or current for dairies with three (3) phase balanced
load service, shall be determined by directly using the results of the load box test results for Step
1 and Step 2 as specified in Paragraph 077.02.b.
a. The V cc measured during Step 1 of the load box with the load box "off' and the
dairy "" will be the total V cc.
b. The V cc measured during Step 2 of the load box test with the load box "off' and
the dairy "off' is the contribution to Vcc from the utility, Vccutility.
c. The contribution to V cc by the dairy is the difference between V cc and V ccutility,
V ccdairy = V cc - V ccutility.
082. REPORTING (Rule 82).
Within a reasonable period of time after completion of any tests required to be performed by the
utility under these rules, a qualified analyst shall prepare a written report. The report shall
include a summary of the tests performed, a copy of the sketch or drawing of the dairy prepared
pursuant to Section 072, all of the data or results obtained from the tests, and an analysis of the
data or results obtained from the tests. If remediation was required under these rules, the report
shall specify the actions taken or to be taken. The utility shall provide a copy of the writtenreport to the dairy producer.
083. - 090. (RESERVED).
RULES 91 THROUGH 92 - REMEDIAL ACTIONS
AND COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS
091.REMEDIATION (Rule 91).
01. Utility System. If the utility is required to conduct remediation, it shall commence
such remediation within five (5) business days. The utility shall diligently pursue to completion
remedial procedures which shall reduce, and are reasonably likely to sustain, that portion of the
stray current or voltage attributable to the utility s distribution system to a level equal to or less
than fifty percent (50%) of the preventive action level (PAL). This may include addressing other
off-dairy sources.
02. Other Dairies, Farms and Industrial Sites. If a utility s contribution to stray
voltage exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the preventive action level (PAL) and the utility
determines that another customer is a significant contributing source of stray voltage, the utility
shall notify both the dairy and the other customer in writing.
092.COMMISSION PROCEEDINGS (Rule 92).
01. Filing with the Commission. All petitions seeking relief under Section 61-805
Idaho Code, shall be filed with the Commission Secretary pursuant to Section 005 above.
Petitions shall conform to the Commission s Rules of Procedure, IDAPA 31.01.01.053. The
petitioner shall file an original and five (5) copies of the petition.
02. Contents of Petition. The petition shall conform to the Commission s Rules of
Procedure, IDAPA 31.01.01.053. The petition shall contain background information, the date
the notice was filed with the serving utility, a description of the alleged incident( s) of non-
compliance with the Stray Current and Voltage Remediation Act, and the remediation actions (if
any) undertaken by either the utility or the dairy. A copy of the utility s entire stray voltagereport shall accompany the petition.
093. - 999. (RESERVED).
APPEND IX
TEST 1 -
COW CONTACT POINT DATA FORM
Dairy Name:
Dairy Location:
Shunt Resistor:
Date:
ohms (Rshunt )
Voltage
Voltage Current
Contact Contact Measured Measured Source
Item Point Point wlo Shunt wlShunt Resistance
Identifier Description Resistor Resistor Calculated Comments
Voc Vshunt Rshunt
10f2
APPEND IX
TEST 1-
COW CONTACT POINT DATA FORM INSTRUCTIONS
The total information provided by the contact point identification, the contact point
description, and the dairy sketch( es) shall be sufficient to allow a third party to accurately
repeat the test locating the correct cow contact points for a specific contact voltage.
The voltages measured in this test shall be determined using the same instrument( s) for
both data points. One reading shall be taken immediately following the other using the
same meter.
The actual source resistance is calculated from the known shunt resistance and the
measured voltage.
Record comments as appropriate or necessary.
Rsource Voc - V shunt X Rshunt
V shunt
Rsource Voc
- Rshunt
I shunt
2 of2
APPEND IX 2
TEST 2
48-HOUR" TEST REPORT FORM
Customer Name:
Start Time:
Contact Point Identifier Number:
Date:
Stop Time:
Time of Duration
Occurrence Voltage Primary Secondary Steady State
(Hr, Min)Across Neutral to Neutral to Primary to V ec or Ice
of Highest (Current Referenced Reference Secondary Exceeded PAL
Steady State Thru) Rshunt Ground Ground Voltage Drop in One Hour
Hour V cc or Icc V cc or Icc Vps Period
10f4
APPEND IX 2
48-HOUR" TEST REPORT FORM
INSTRUCTIONS
Record the following data with a long term digitizing data recorder or its equivalent for a
minimum of 48 hours as specified in Rule 074:
Voltage from primary neutral to remote reference ground, Vp, at transformer.
b. Secondary neutral to remote reference ground voltage, V s, at the electrical panel
serving the area for the V cc or Icc selected.
c. Primary neutral to secondary neutral voltage, Vps, between points of connection
for Vp and V
d. Steady state cow contact voltage or current at the preselected point( s) with the
highest cow contact voltage or current recorded in Test 1 , V cc or Icc.
Steady State Data:
Steady state data recorded during the 48-hour test shall be presented in tabular format on
Form 1 as described below, or it shall be presented graphically. Graphical presentation shall
include a time scale for the entire recording period and a clear indication of the steady state
readings of Vcc or Icc, Vp, Vs and Vps for the recording intervals. The scale(s) shall be such
that steady state cow contact voltages or currents at or above the PAL are easily identifiable.
If using tabular format, the analyst shall enter data in the table for each hour of the 48
hours of the test in chronological order. The data recorded in the table shall include: the specific
time that the highest steady state value of V cc or Icc was recorded in that hour; all four
corresponding data points recorded at that time (Vp, Vs, Vps and Vcc or Icc), and the total time
during the hour that the steady state V cc or Icc exceeded the PAL.
2 of4
APPEND IX 2
TEST 2 - REPORT FORM 2
SUPPLEMENT AL DATA FOR FARM OWNER
TRANSIENT DEVIATIONS FOUND DURING "48-HOUR" TEST
Customer Name:
Start Time:
Contact Point Identifier Number:
Date:
Stop Time:
No. Transient Deviations
Time of Exceeding 1.0 Volts with
Highest Total N um ber Peak Magnitude Greater
Peak Vcc Highest Voltage Transient than 1.0 VoIts
Hour (Icc)Recorded Deviations (2.0 milliAmps)
Transient deviations occur due to electrical events such as motor starts. The PAL level is 1.
volt for steady state voltages but PAL does not apply to transient voltage deviations.
3 of4
APPEND IX 2
48-HOUR" TEST REPORT FORM 2
INSTRUCTIONS
Recording Transient Data:
F or the purpose of identifying and reporting transient deviations, a transient deviation
occurs when the recorded maximum V cc or Icc in a recording interval exceeds two hundred
percent (200%) of the steady state V cc or Icc recording during the same recording interval.
Transient data recorded during the 48-hour test shall be presented in tabular format on the
48-hour Test - Transient Deviation Data" form as described below, or it shall be presented
graphically. Graphical presentation shall include a time scale for the entire recording period and
a clear indication of the maximum Vcc or Icc recorded for the recording intervals. The scale(s)
shall be such that V cc transient deviations at or above two (2.0) volts, or Icc transient deviations
at or above four (4) milliAmps, are easily identifiable.
If using a tabular format, the analyst shall enter data in the table for each hour of the 48
hours of the test in chronological order. The data recorded in the table shall include; the specific
time during the hour that the transient deviation in V cc or Icc with the largest peak magnitude
occurred, the corresponding peak V cc or Icc, the total number of transient deviations recorded in
that hour, and the total number of transient deviations recorded in that hour with a peak
magnitude of two (2) or more volts for Vcc or four (4) or more milliAmps for Icc.
4 of4
APPEND IX 3
TEST 3
PRIMARY PROFILE DATA FORM
Dairy Name:
Dairy Location:Date:
Calculated Measured
Voltage Voltage
Item Current Resistance (primary (primary
Pole Location Primary Primary neutral-to-neutral-
Ground Ground earth)to-earth)
Identification Time Ipg Rp~Vpne Vpne
(mA)(Ohms)(V)(V)Notes
Note: If Vpne is measured it is not required to measure Ipg and Rpg for determination of the
calculated Vpne. In cases where Vpne is calculated the following formula is used:
Calculated Vpne = (Ipg x Rpg) 1 1000
1 of 1
APPENDIX 4
TEST 4
SECONDARY NEUTRAL VOLTAGE DROP TEST
Test Performed by:Date:
Customer Name:
(All other farm loads must be off. Use only one load per circuit.)
SITE:
A. Site Location Units
Circuit Neutral Wire
Gauge AWG
C. Circuit Neutral
AL or CU
D. Wire length (in 100'
ft.100 ft.
E. nl100 ft.
F. Total Resistance
(D times E)
G. Measured Neutral
Current, Isn
H. Calculated Voltage
Drop, VDropC
(F times G)
Measured Voltage
Drop, VDropM
Percent difference
((H-I)/I) * 100
Vp load "off'
V s load "off'
V cc load "off'
Icc load "off"
if measured
Vp load "
V s load "
V cc load "
Icc load "
if measured
1 of2
ITEM
APPEND IX 4
TEST 4
SECONDARY NEUTRAL VOLTAGE
DROP TEST INSTRUCTIONS
EXPLANATION
Describe load site location, neutral wire gauge, neutral wire length (in 100s of
feet), resistance per 100 feet (see table below), measured neutral current
measured voltage drop, Vp, Vs and Vcc or Icc for load "off' and load "on.
Voltage drop is measured from end-to-end of the secondary neutral being tested
and the neutral bus of the building being tested. Electrical power to all buildings
shall be turned-off during this test except at the building being tested. Locations
ofVp, Vs and Vcc or Icc are the same as measured during the previous tests.
Calculate the total circuit resistance. Calculate using Ohm's Law, the expected
neutral voltage drop. Calculate the absolute value of the difference and divide by
the measured voltage drop. Express this as a percentage. If the two values
(measured voltage drop and calculated voltage drop) do not agree, further
investigation is warranted to discover the reason for the discrepancy.
Resistance Chart (Ohms per 100 feet)
Multi-conductor Cables at 68 Degrees F.
MA TERIAL
GAUGE
0.423 257
265 162
166 102
104 064
066 040
042 025
026 016
021 013
1/0 016 010
2/0 013 008
3/0 010 007
4/0 008 005
2 of2
APPENDIX 5
TEST 5 -
LOAD BOX TEST
Date:
Time:
Dairy:
STEP STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5
ARM ON ARM OFF FARM OFF FARM OFF ARM ON
Condition Load Box Load Box Load Box Load Box Load Box
Off Off Ha1f On Ful1 On Ful1 On
Time:
Vps
Vcc
Icc
Load Box Current ( ILB Half Load Full Load
Load Box Voltage (VLB):Half Load Full Load
Primary Nominal Voltage Phase to Neutral (VPRI):
Transformer Current Due to Load Box (IXFMR):Half Load Full Load
Ip =
IIlJ )( VIlJ
Vpri
Factor for Cow Contact Point
K =Vcc , as recorded in Step 4.
10f2
APPEND IX 5
TEST 5 -
LOAD BOX TEST INSTRUCTIONS
Note 1: Testing may be accomplished by a single 18/25 kW load box or a dual element 9/18 or
12.5/25 kW load box. The difference between full load and half load measurements is used in
most calculations.
Note 2: If the dairy is found in an isolated condition, two load box tests must be performed: an
isolated test and a non-isolated test.
Note 3: If the dairy is served by a three-phase system, measure and record only the dairy-off
load box off column and the dairy-on, load box off column or test only one phase of the three.
ITEM EXPLANATION
Enter date and customer name.
Attach load box to the 240-volt secondary side of transformer. Turn on load box and
measure current and voltage and record on data sheet, Appendix 5.
Conduct load box test and for each step measure and record V p, V s, V ps and V cc or Icc.
Each step shall be maintained for approximately two minutes with the highest reading
during that time interval recorded.
Step 1 Farm power is "" with load box "off'
Step 2 Farm power is "off' with load box "off'
Step 3 Farm power is "off' with load box "" at half load
Step 4 Farm power is "off' with load box "" at full load
Step 5 Farm power is "" with load box "" full load
Remove load box and restore normal power to the farm.
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APPEND IX 6
TEST 6
EQUIPMENT SIGNATURE TEST FORM INSTRUCTIONS
Item Instructions
Enter the date the test is performed.
Enter the name of the dairy.
Enter the description of the load for which the signature will be
recorded.
Provide a complete description of the load.
horsepower or kilowatt rating, if known.
Provide voltage
Note the time of turn-on and the time of turn-off. Equipment should be
" for a period of not less than 15 seconds. If equipment is found in
the "" condition, turn it "off' then turn it back "on.If equipment
cannot be manually cycled then record data at the next "
" - "
off'
cycle.
Repeat for all major circuits and pieces of equipment (both 120 volt and
240 volt). Some equipment may normally be operated in sequence.
Start each piece of equipment at 15-second intervals until all are
running, then turn off in reverse order at 15-second intervals.
If data is to be provided graphically, only load description and time are
required to be provided on Test 6 data sheet. Operation of each piece
of equipment shall be indicated on the graphical data sheet(s).
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APPEND IX 7
PREVENTIVE ACTION LEVEL RESULTS
Enter the highest value of cow contact voltage or current that occurred during the 48-hour test from
Appendix 2, and corresponding primary to reference ground voltage.
V p48hr :V cc48hr :Icc48hr :
Enter the value of cow contact voltage or current and corresponding primary to reference ground
voltage that was present during the load box test with the farm power off and the load box off.
v P OFF:VccOFF:Icc OFF:
Enter the value of cow contact voltage or current and corresponding primary to reference ground
voltage that was present during the load box test with the farm power off and the load box set at
half load.
v P HALF LOAD:v cc HALF LOAD:Icc HALF LOAD:
Enter the value of cow contact voltage or current and corresponding primary to reference ground
voltage that was present during the load box test with the farm power off and the load box at
maXImum.
VpFULLLOAD:v cc FULL LOAD:Icc FULL LOAD:
Calculations:
Utility Contribution to
Cow Contact Voltage =
Vp48hr - VpHALF
x (V cc FULL - V cc HALF) + V cc HALF
VpFULL - VpHALF
Utility contribution to cow contact voltage =
Utility contribution to cow contact voltage as a percentage of V cc48hr =
Utility contribution to cow contact voltage as a percentage of PAL =
10f2
Utility Contribution to
Cow Contact Current =Vp48hr - VpHALF
VpFULL - VpHALF
(Icc FULL - Icc HALF) + Icc HALF
Utility contribution to cow contact current =mA (milliAmps)
Utility contribution to cow contact current as a percentage of Icc48hr =
Utility contribution to cow contact current as a percentage of the PAL =
See Section 071.02 for required actions based on these results.
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