Collection of SANS standards in electronic format (PDF)

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irrespective of the cause and quantum thereof.

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ICS 17.220.20;91.140.50 NRS 057- 4:2001

ISBN 0-626-13377-7 First edition

Rationalized User Specification

ELECTRICITY METERING —

Part 4: Code of practice

Preferred requirements for applications in

the Electricity Supply Industry

N R S
This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

This Rationalized User Specification is

issued by the NRS Project
on behalf of the
User Group given in the foreword
and is not a standard as contemplated in the Standards Act, 1993 (Act 29 of 1993).

Rationalized user specifications allow user

organizations to define the performance and quality
requirements of relevant equipment.

Rationalized user specifications may, after a certain

application period, be introduced as national standards.

Amendments issued since publication

Amdt No. Date Text affected

Correspondence to be directed to Printed copies obtainable from

South African Bureau of Standards South African Bureau of Standards

(Electrotechnical Standards) Private Bag X191
Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Pretoria 0001
Telephone: (012) 428-7911
Fax: (012) 344-1568
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sabs.co.za

COPYRIGHT RESERVED

Printed on behalf of the NRS Project in the Republic of South Africa

by the South African Bureau of Standards
1 Dr Lategan Road, Groenkloof, Pretoria
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1 NRS 057- 4:2001

Contents
Page

Foreword ............................................................................................................................ 2

Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 3

Key words .......................................................................................................................... 3

1 Scope ............................................................................................................................ 5

2 Normative references ....................................................................................................... 5

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms ........................................................................... 6

4 Requirements ................................................................................................................. 6

4.1 Metering equipment ................................................................................................. 6

4.2 Data collection and transmission ............................................................................... 6
4.3 Calibration and testing .............................................................................................. 10
4.4 Commissioning and certification ................................................................................ 15

Annexes

A (informative) Recording of information during design, installation and commissioning ............. 20

Bibliography ....................................................................................................................... 30
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NRS 057- 4:2001 2

Foreword
This part of NRS 057 has been prepared on behalf of the Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee
(ESLC) and has been approved by it for use by supply authorities.

NRS 057 consists of the following five parts, under the general title Electricity Metering:

Part 1: Glossary of terms and overview of roles and responsibilities,

Part 2: Minimum requirements. (In course of preparation.)
Part 3: Auditing and reporting procedures. (Under consideration.)
Part 4: Metering code of practice
Part 5: Technical requirement for data loggers. (Under consideration.)
This part of NRS 057 was prepared by a Working Group which, at the time of publication, comprised
the following members:

E Louw (chairman) Eskom Distribution

W O Barnard National Electricity Regulator (NER)
V Bissett City of Cape Town
M J Ellman National Electricity Regulator (NER)
B Fourie Eskom Transmission
J G Louw Tygerberg City Electricity
G Mellis Power Meter Technics
M Outram Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Electricity
V Patel eThekwini Electricity
V Rengecas SABS
R Sato Eskom Transmission
W Terblanche Eon Solutions Africa
D van Reenen City Power Johannesburg (Pty) Ltd
S J van den Berg Mangaung Municipality
NJ Mavhungu (Project Leader) NRS Project Management Agency
J Westenraad Tshwane Electricity

At the time when the ESLC accepted this edition of NRS 057, the ESLC comprised the following
members:

R Wienand (Chairman) eThekwini Electricity

M N Bailey Eskom (Distribution Technology) Simmerpan
A J Claasen South African Bureau of Standards, SABS
N Croucher City of Cape Town
P Crowdy Eskom (Network Services) central region
W Dykman Tshwane Electricity
A H L Fortmann AMEU (Technical Secretary)
P A Johnson Eskom (Resources & strategy) MWP
J G Louw City of Cape Town (Tygerberg administration)
D M Michie Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
A J van der Merwe Mangaung Municipality
J van Heerden SABS, NETFA
P J S van Niekerk City Power Johannesburg (Pty) Ltd
H RWhitehead eThekwini Electriciry

ISBN 0-626-13377-7
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3 NRS 057- 4:2001

Annex A is for information only.

Recommendations for corrections, additions or deletions should be addressed to the NRS Project
Manager, c/o SABS, Private Bag X191, Pretoria, 0001.

Introduction
This part of NRS 057 is the fourth in a series of specifications that describe the regulatory aspects of
the electrical energy metering process. The first part describes terms and role players in this industry.
Part 2 specifies minimum requirements. Part 3 defines the mechanism for regulating the process.
This specification compiles the best practices from various role players currently active in the
electricity metering industry. It acts as a code of practice to draw from for the improvement in quality
and effectiveness in metering electrical energy.

Key words
Metering installations; Data loggers; Electricity metering; Interrogation.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 4

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5 NRS 057- 4:2001

CODE OF PRACTICE

Electricity metering –

Part 4: Code of practice

Preferred requirements for applications in the Electricity Supply Industry

1 Scope
This part of NRS 057 sets out metering practices to be adhered to by electricity supply authorities,
bureaux and test laboratories.

2 Normative references
The following documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions
of this part of NRS 057. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards
and specifications are subject to revision, and parties to agreement based on this part of NRS 057 are
encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the documents listed
below. Information on currently valid national and international standards and specifications can be
obtained from the South African Bureau of Standards.

IEC 60186:1995, Voltage transformers.

(Amendment 2)

IEC 60255-3:1989, Electrical relays – Part 3: Single input energizing quantity measuring relays with
dependent or independent time.

IEC 60687:1992, Alternating current static watt-hour meters for active energy classes (0,2 S and 0,5
S).

IEC 61036:1996, Alternating current static watt-hour meters for active energy (Classes 1 and 2).

IEC 61107:1996, Data exchange for meter reading, tariff and load control – Direct local data exchange.

SABS IEC 60044-1:1996, Instrument transformers — Part 1: Current transformers.

SABS IEC 60521:1988, Alternating-current electromechanical watt-hour meters

(classes 0.5, 1 and 2)

EA-4/02:1999, Expressions of the uncertainty of measurements in calibration.

NRS 057-1:2001, Electricity metering – Part 1: Glossary of terms and overview of roles and
responsibilities.

NRS 057-2:2000, Electricity metering – Part 2: Minimum requirements.

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NRS 057- 4:2001 6

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms

The definitions and abbreviations given in NRS 057-1 apply.

4 Requirements

4.1 Metering equipment

4.1.1 Measurement of current

References to CTs in this part of NRS 057 does not preclude the use of other measuring techniques
that are accurate to the required standards.

CTs shall preferably be of a multi-ratio construction so that possible increases in load can be
accommodated. The CT ratio shall closely match the maximum loading of the metering installation.
The CT ratio setting used shall be appropriate for the maximum demand (MD).

4.1.2 Measurement of voltage

On low voltage installations, the voltage supply to the metering equipment shall be protected as close
as practicable to the point of supply.

Voltage transformers may be used for other purposes, such as protection, provided the overall
accuracy requirements are met.

References to VTs in this part of NRS 057 do not preclude the use of other measuring techniques that
are accurate to the required standards.

4.1.3 Test blocks

Test blocks shall comply with the requirements of NRS 057-2.

4.1.4 Meters

Meters shall comply with the requirements of NRS 057-2.

4.2 Data collection and transmission

4.2.1 Interrogation

4.2.1.1 General

Where optical couplers are used, these shall comply with IEC 61107.

4.2.1.2 Data to be downloaded

Data downloaded on interrogation shall consist of the following as a minimum:

a) a unique identification number;

b) the data logger ID or meter point ID or stand number;

c) the time and date from the data logger at the commencement of the download;
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7 NRS 057- 4:2001

d) the energy data. This may be limited to the data accumulated since the last interrogation and
download; and

e) the events log. This may be limited to the events information accumulated since the last
interrogation and download.

4.2.1.3 Communication integrity

All data transmissions shall employ techniques to ensure the integrity of the data transmitted and
received.

4.2.1.4 Archiving of metering information

All downloaded metering information shall be archived in such a manner that it cannot be altered
without leaving a detailed audit trail, and that a copy of the raw meter data is kept by the electricity
supply authority or independent meter operator for a minimum period of 48 months. This raw meter
data shall be available on request.

The distributor licensee or independent meter operator should ensure that procedures are in place to
minimize the possibility of such raw meter data being accessed by unauthorized personnel, and to
ensure that the raw meter data cannot be modified in any way. The means of storage of the raw meter
data shall be such that any access to it is recorded.

4.2.1.5 Interrogation log

An interrogation log shall be generated to record details of all interrogations. This log should form part
of the interrogation audit trail and shall contain the following:

a) date of interrogation;

b) time of commencement of interrogation;

c) status of interrogation attempt, i.e. attempt failed/was successful;

d) operator ID (where appropriate);

e) data logger ID;

f) clock updated (where appropriate) and extent of change;

g) clock errors outside the range specified;

h) method of interrogation (e.g. automatically, handheld); and

i) ID of handheld computer used for interrogation (where applicable).

4.2.2 Data validation

4.2.2.1 Raw meter data integrity

In correcting any working data, the raw meter data shall be protected from being changed. In cases
were raw meter data needs to be changed, it should be archived.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 8

4.2.2.2 Journals

In all cases where data is corrected or altered, a journal shall be automatically generated and archived
with the raw meter data file. The journal shall contain the following as a minimum requirement:

a) the date of the correction/alteration;

b) the time of the correction/alteration;

c) the operator ID;

d) the identification of the demand periods of data corrected/altered;

e) the technique used to arrive at the corrected/altered data; and

f) the reason for the correction or alteration.

4.2.3 Data transmission

4.2.3.1 General

Transmissions and transfers of metering information between parties and their agents (bureaux and
test laboratories) shall be carried out electronically. The format and structure of transmitted files shall
be agreed in writing, by the parties, prior to communications taking place.

Recognized and secure transmission media should be used. Disks may be used only in emergency
situations.

A complete audit trail shall exist for all data gathering, validation and processing functions. This audit
trail shall apply to all archived data for a period of 48 months.

4.2.3.2 Logs

Logs of communications and processing activities shall form part of the audit trail. This shall apply
most particularly where automated processes are in operation. Logs should include the following as a
minimum:

a) an activity identifier;

b) the date and time of the activity; and

c) the operator identifier.

4.2.3.3 Storage media

Logs may be printed and filed as hard copy or maintained as data files, in a secure form, along with
other archived information.

4.2.4 Confidentiality and security

4.2.4.1 General

The information is of an extremely sensitive nature, and security guidelines given below shall be
observed. The requirements of this part of NRS 057 should be complied with at all times.
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9 NRS 057- 4:2001

4.2.4.2 Personnel

Only authorized personnel shall have access to meter data. All such personnel shall sign non-
disclosure agreements.

4.2.4.3 Networks

Processing and interrogation systems connected to local or wide area networks shall have strict
controls placed on those authorized to have access to data.

4.2.4.4 Back-ups

Appropriate back-up routines shall be established to ensure that data is kept secure at all times.

Security and confidentiality requirements for back-up files shall be the same as for the original raw
meter data files.

The timing of back-ups shall be dependent on the frequency of data logger interrogation and the
number of days of storage maintained by the data loggers.

4.2.4.5 Software

A register shall be kept of all copies of the software used in the data gathering or programming
processes and the communication of meter data. All such software shall be password protected.

The register shall include a list of persons authorized to use each application.

4.2.4.6 Hardware

All hardware containing software or data used in the gathering, processing, and communicating of all
data shall have a security system, such as use of passwords, to prevent illegal operational attempts.

Appropriate security, such as a password in the BIOS, shall be incorporated so that hardware cannot
be operated should it be lost or stolen.

Hardware involved in interrogation shall be located in an access-controlled environment.

4.2.4.7 Passwords

Passwords shall be employed in such a manner that the password offered shall determine the level of
access to the information or software within the interrogation and processing system.

It is preferred that a control register for the allocation of passwords is kept up-to-date by the licensee
for auditing purposes. Passwords shall be adequately controlled.

Each password shall consist of a sequence of no fewer than four characters, where each character is
an alpha character or digit (0 to 9) or an underscore (_).

A minimum of two passwords is required, as follows:

a) Level 1: Required for interrogation only. This level may also allow synchronization of time clocks;
and

b) Level 2: Required for all functions including program parameter changes.

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NRS 057- 4:2001 10

Where passwords can be entered on a keypad integral to the processing system, neither the
password nor the number of characters shall be displayed on the screen.

4.2.4.8 Bureaux services

The use of bureaux by licensees to carry out installation, interrogation and processing functions is
acceptable. However, the licensees remains responsible for compliance with the requirements of this
part of NRS 057, and, therefore, the compliance thereof by such agents.

4.3 Calibration and testing

4.3.1 Competence of test laboratories

4.3.1.1 General requirements

An approved test laboratory produces calibration reports for some or all of the following:

a) working standards;

b) portable working standards;

c) metering installation components.

It also produces certification reports for metering installations and components of metering
installations.

These reports are essential for demonstrating that a metering installation complies with the accuracy
requirements detailed in 4.3.2.3.

4.3.1.2 Organization and management

A test laboratory shall be organized in such a way to ensure that confidence is maintained in its
independence of judgement and integrity at all times.

Managerial staff shall have the authority and resources needed to discharge their duties adequately.
The responsibility, authority and functional relationships of all relevant personnel shall be specified and
documented.

Test laboratories shall appoint a technical manager (or equivalent) with overall responsibility for
technical operations. The technical manager would normally be expected to hold appropriate
qualifications.

There shall also be a suitably qualified quality manager (or equivalent) with responsibility for the quality
system and its implementation.

4.3.1.3 Quality system, audit and review

The test laboratory shall:

a) establish, implement and maintain a documented quality management system;

b) arrange for audits of its activities at appropriate intervals to verify that its operations continue to
comply with the requirements of the quality system; and

c) participate in proficiency testing programmes to ensure the quality of results provided to clients.
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11 NRS 057- 4:2001

4.3.1.4 Personnel

The test laboratory shall

a) ensure that all staff who perform or supervise work for calibration or certification reports are
technically competent and appropriately qualified and trained, and

b) keep proper records of the relevant qualifications, training, skills and experience of the technical
personnel.

4.3.1.5 Accommodation and environment

The test laboratory shall provide accommodation and facilities for its staff that do not adversely affect
the technical validity of its calibration work.

Strict control shall be maintained over access to the testing facilities and records.

Environmental conditions within the laboratory shall comply with the specific requirements for
temperature, humidity, dust and electromagnetic interference for the calibrations being carried out.

The certification of metering installations requires work outside the laboratory. In all cases, relevant
conditions shall comply with statutory safety requirements and shall be monitored and recorded.

4.3.1.6 Equipment

The test laboratory shall be suitably equipped with all items of equipment required for the correct
performance of the calibrations and tests undertaken. Although NRS 057 (all parts) does not prescribe
the specific equipment required, a typical test laboratory would be expected to have the following
types of equipment as a minimum:

a) an electronic active meter as a reference standard, with a test bench for three-phase phantom
loading of meters;

b) instruments as reference standards for the measurement of current, voltage and power factor
(where these are not available on the electronic standard). The use of AC/DC transfer standards is
acceptable;

c) reference standard VTs and CTs, with comparator bridges for the measurement of the magnitude
and phase of instrument transformer ratios; and

d) working standards may also be required to cope with the volume of work and/or the absence of
reference standards being calibrated at an approved calibration laboratory. Portable working
standards would be required for certification of metering installations.

The equipment used shall be such that the requirements of this part of NRS 057 for limits of errors
including uncertainity are met. All equipment shall be properly maintained, and records of each item of
equipment shall be kept, including the following:

i) details of maintenance;

ii) calibration records and records of in-service checks; and

iii) history of damage, malfunction, modification or repair.

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NRS 057- 4:2001 12

4.3.1.7 Documentation and records

The approved test laboratory shall maintain a record system.

All records pertaining to the quality system, calibration and test equipment, certificates and reports
should be stored safely.

The approved test laboratory shall have a documented system for uniquely identifying the items to be
calibrated.

All observations and calculations shall be recorded in a permanent manner.

Original calibration records shall be uniquely identifiable and traceable to the items to which they refer
and to any reports based on them.

Calibration records shall contain sufficient information to permit identification of possible sources of
error and to permit satisfactory repetition of the calibration under original conditions. Calibration
records shall identify the person(s) responsible for their generation and for the checking of data
transcriptions and calculations.

4.3.1.8 Reports

The results of each calibration or test shall be recorded accurately, clearly, unambiguously and
objectively.

Calibration reports shall include the following minimum details:

a) the name and address of the approved test laboratory;

b) a unique identification (such as a serial number) repeated on each separate page of the report;

c) the name and address of the client;

d) a description and identification of the item for calibration;

e) the date when the calibration was carried out;

f) results of the measurements (including the units of measurement used);

g) a statement of measurement uncertainties achieved; and

h) the name, signature and title of the staff member accepting responsibility for the report.

4.3.1.9 Sub-contracting of calibration or testing

An approved test laboratory shall advise the client in writing of its intention to sub-contract any portion
of calibration or testing to another approved test laboratory.

However, the principal approved test laboratory shall ensure, and be able to demonstrate, that the sub-
contracting approved test laboratory is currently approved to an appropriate level to carry out the work
in question, and that the sub-contractor complies with the requirements of this part of NRS 057.

4.3.1.10 Outside support services and supplies

The approved test laboratory shall

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13 NRS 057- 4:2001

a) establish and maintain procedures for the purchase of test equipment and consumables, and the
procurement of sub-contract services, where applicable, and

b) ensure that purchased equipment or consumables are not used until inspected or otherwise
verified as complying with specified requirements.

4.3.1.11 Complaints

The approved test laboratory shall have documented policies and procedures for the resolution of
complaints (received from clients or other parties) about its activities or practices.

Records shall be kept of all complaints and of relevant actions taken by the approved test laboratory.

Where the complaint raises doubts concerning the approved test laboratory’s compliance with the
requirements of this part of NRS 057, the approved test laboratory shall immediately notify the
Regulator of the complaint and advise of the action taken or proposed action to be taken to resolve the
complaint.

The Regulator shall decide if any further action is required.

4.3.2 Calibration and testing requirements

4.3.2.1 Reference standards and traceability

Test laboratories shall establish and maintain an equipment calibration system that ensures that,
whenever a test or measurement is undertaken, the equipment utilized shall have been previously
calibrated within an appropriate period of time, and that sufficient records are kept that would enable
the test or measurement to be replicated in every respect should the need arise.

Reference standards shall be calibrated by an approved calibration laboratory. Working standards and
portable working standards shall be calibrated against reference standards at either an approved
calibration laboratory or approved test laboratory. In all cases, calibration is required at intervals not
greater than those given in table 1 and results shall be available as calibration reports.

Table 1 — Calibration interval for standards

1 2 3
Initial calibration Maximum calibration
Standard interval interval
months months
References Voltage and current transformers 36 60
Comparator bridges and burdens 36 60
Meters and meter testing systems 12 24
Power factor, voltage and current meters 12 24
Working All except portable 12 24
Portable 6 12

When a reference or working standard is first put into service, it shall be calibrated within the initial
calibration interval specified in table 1. Thereafter, the calibration interval chosen, up to the maximum
specified in the table, requires evidence in the form of calibration reports showing that differences
between calibrations are either negligible or predictable. Portable working standards shall be calibrated
whenever they are returned to the approved test laboratory after a field test or sequence of field tests,
but at intervals of no more than six months.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 14

Where adjustment of reference, working and portable working standards is required, calibration reports
shall include both before and after adjustment results. When a reference or working standard is
calibrated and is found to be outside the specification defined by the permanent signed record for that
apparatus, the reason for failure shall be investigated. Following this investigation, and without
evidence to the contrary, all meters calibrated since the previous calibration shall be considered as
having been calibrated with faulty apparatus. All affected parties shall be advised where such meters
are part of a metering installation, or where the faulty apparatus was used to calibrate a metering
installation.

A calibrated complete meter testing system (test bench) may be used as an alternative to separately
calibrated energy standards and associated measurement transformers. After commissioning such a
system, an overall accuracy test shall be carried out using approved reference standards. When meter
testing systems are found outside the maximum overall uncertainty limits, the energy standard and
measurement transformers shall be separately calibrated.

Reference standards, other than standard CTs and VTs, shall be maintained at the appropriate
reference temperature 23 °C ± 2 °C.

During periods of use (i.e. between calibrations at approved calibration laboratories), procedures shall
be carried out and the results recorded to substantiate the stability of reference standards.

4.3.2.2 Uncertainty of measurement

The overall uncertainty of measurement during a laboratory calibration shall be calculated in

accordance with EA-4/02 allowing for all uncertainties in the chain of measurement from true value to
the meter under test. The reported expanded uncertainties of measurement shall be stated as the
standard uncertainty of measurement multiplied by a coverage factor of k = 2 , which for a normal
distribution corresponds to a coverage probability of approximately 95 %.

4.3.2.3 Requirements for the calibration and on-site testing of electricity meters

4.3.2.3.1 General

Meters shall be calibrated and tested using standards that comply with this part of NRS 057.
Whenever a meter is calibrated or tested, the relationship between the test output(s) of that meter and
the meter register shall be shown to comply with the marking on the meter nameplate.

4.3.2.3.2 Calibration

Components of metering installations shall be calibrated and adjusted under the appropriate physical
and electrical reference conditions or under conditions that shall permit the calculation of the results
and their uncertainty at the reference conditions. The individual test points shall be as described in the
relevant component specification, for example, IEC 61036 and IEC 60687 for active meters and SABS
IEC 60044-1 for CTs.

The calibration procedures shall be referenced to these documents and included as part of the formal
procedures of the approved test laboratory.

4.3.2.3.3 In-situ accuracy tests

If any in-situ verification test shows that a meter is outside the required error limits, then the meter
shall be returned to a calibration laboratory or test laboratory for re-testing or re-calibration. If it can be
shown that the prevailing influence quantity conditions are sufficiently different to the reference
conditions to have caused the meter to be outside of the required error limits then the meter may be
left in operation as long as these influence quantity conditions are temporary. A permanent signed
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15 NRS 057- 4:2001

record should be kept and shall contain the calculations and observations to justify this and shall state
that the influence quantities are temporary.

4.3.2.4 Requirements for the calibration of measurement transformers

The accuracy test results shall include a measurement uncertainty value as described in 4.3.2.2. The
accuracy test result errors including measurement uncertainty shall not exceed 1,5 times the
permitted errors in the relevant specifications involved (i.e. IEC 60044-1 and IEC 60186).

Test certificates for new or replacement measurement transformers shall provide full details of the test
burden conditions under which the errors were measured.

4.4 Commissioning and certification

4.4.1 Installation of metering equipment

4.4.1.1 Meters

Metering equipment shall be installed to comply with the requirements of this part of NRS 057.

4.4.1.2 Instrument transformer earths

The secondary wiring star-point of instrument transformers shall be earthed. Such earthing should be
at one point only.

Wherever practicable, all CT secondary wiring shall be terminated in the metering panel.

A single star-point return conductor shall be avoided.

4.4.1.3 Wiring loom

The wiring loom shall be cabled as directly as practicable and shall, wherever possible, be without
intermediate terminations for all CT and VT wiring.

Where intermediate terminations are unavoidable, they shall be housed within sealable enclosures.

Wiring terminations between the test block and the meters shall be kept to a minimum.

The wiring shall be suitably rated and of such length that the maximum burden capabilities of the
measurement transformers are not exceeded.

4.4.1.4 Measurement of current

For LV supplies where CTs are located within a switchboard, they shall be mounted securely within an
enclosure that can be sealed against interference and unauthorized access. If the switchboard does
not have a separate enclosure for the CTs, then the CTs shall be fitted with sealable terminal covers.

4.4.1.5 Measurement of voltage

All meter potential supplies shall be adequately protected by appropriate fuses or circuit-breakers
dedicated to the metering circuit.

For LV supplies, the meter potentials shall be fed from fuses or circuit-breakers mounted within the
sealable CT enclosure. Circuits shall be capable of withstanding fault levels existing at the metering
installation, and shall comply with all relevant statutory regulations.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 16

Where a VT supplies loads external to the metering installation, these loads may not be added to or
modified without the prior approval of the approved test laboratory or institution responsible for the
metering installation. The total burden on any VT may not exceed its rating at the rated secondary
current.

4.4.1.6 Enclosures

Metering equipment shall be housed in suitable enclosures to minimize the ingress of dust, vermin
and moisture. In both indoor and outdoor situations, unauthorized access to wiring terminals and
equipment shall be prevented.

4.4.2 Certification and recertification of metering installations

4.4.2.1 General

This section describes the requirements for the certification and recertification of a metering
installations. For initial certification, there are several different requirements, depending on whether the
metering installation is new, existing or modified, and each of these is discussed in the following
sections. Recertification of a metering installation as part of the maintenance requirements is also
covered.

4.4.2.2 Design report

A design report shall be produced by the licensee.

The design report shall be prepared by the metering designer both for a new metering installation and
where an existing metering installation is modified. For a new metering installation, this report shall
contain the following information where applicable:

a) initial load of metering installation;

b) MD of metering installation;

c) maximum permitted error per component as detailed in IEC 60044-1 and IEC 60186;

d) CT accuracy class and VA rating;

e) CT ratio;

f) selected CT ratio;

g) CT circuit burden;

h) VT accuracy class and VA rating;

i) VT circuit burden;

j) CT and VT earthing details;

k) measured voltage drop across the secondary terminals of VT to test block;

l) make, model and accuracy of meter;

m) expected time for the most significant digit of any meter register to repeat;

n) make and model of data logger, if separate;

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17 NRS 057- 4:2001

o) external alarm points (e.g. main power supply failure) to be monitored by the data logger;

p) means of monitoring unauthorised attempts to connect to the data logger;

q) make and model of modem, if separate;

r) fusing details;

s) standards complied with (electrical & communications);

t) types of enclosures (including IP rating where appropriate);

u) confirmation of component compatibility (for example, the CT secondary current matches the
meter);

v) confirmation that data exchange protocols are compatible with the data retrieval software which
itself complies with NRS 057-2;

w) special tests required;

x) non-metering equipment (distributor's equipment only) connected to measurement circuits;

y) confirmation that equipment is suitable for the environment in which it will operate; and

z) other relevant information.

Where an existing metering installation is being modified, the design report may contain only relevant
topics from the above.

The report shall be accompanied by a drawing of the system for use by installation personnel. Both
the design report and drawing shall be identified and be signed by the designer. The design report and
drawing shall be checked to ensure that the proposed metering installation will function correctly and
complies with the requirements of this part of NRS 057, and other relevant codes.

The person carrying out these checks is required to sign the design report and drawing to confirm that
the checks have been carried out.

Installation personnel shall use a design checklist (see annex A) to record metering installation
information and to confirm that the installed equipment complies with the design. On completion, the
checklist shall be stored in the customer file.

4.4.2.3 Certification of components

4.4.2.3.1 General

New or replacement components of a metering installation which are covered by this part of NRS 057
or other relevant codes of practice, shall be individually certified by an approved test laboratory prior to
their installation, except where otherwise specified below.

Each certification report shall, where relevant, include a calibration report that complies with the
requirements of 4.3.1.8 and confirms that the component complies with the requirements of its
accuracy class.

Copies of the certification reports should be held by the approved test laboratory carrying out the
certification.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 18

Certification of a component shall be indicated by the attachment to the component of a certification
sticker bearing the word "TESTED", date of test (month and year) and the name of the test laboratory.

Recalibration of components requires the same full laboratory tests as for new components.

On-site testing is acceptable for this purpose where the requirements of this part of NRS 057 are
omplied with.

Where it considers such action appropriate, the approved test laboratory may certify a component for
shorter periods than originally specified.

4.4.2.3.2 Current transformers

Where CTs are required, they shall meet the standards specified in 4.1.2.2 of NRS 057-2 and shall be
suitably rated for the intended load current.

Where multi-ratio CTs are used, the ratio setting shall be appropriate for the maximum demand.

CTs shall be of an accuracy class appropriate for the required overall accuracy of the metering
installation as specified in 4.3.2.3.

Calibration reports for CTs shall be traceable to national standards and shall indicate the CT error at
the current and burden values specified in SABS IEC 60044-1. Multi-ratio CTs shall be tested at all
ratios.

Where the condition and/or accuracy class of CTs already on site are unknown or the accuracy class
is insufficient to meet the required overall accuracy requirements, and the cost of replacing them is
substantial (particularly if it would require replacement switchgear), the following procedures should be
applied:

a) their replacement should be at the discretion and financial responsibility of the licencee, shall
applying generally accepted engineering or other criteria;

b) the CT accuracy should be checked in situ by an appropriate method as part of the initial
certification procedures for the metering installation.

4.4.2.3.3 Voltage transformers

Where VTs are required, they shall meet the standards specified in 4.1.2.3 of NRS 057-2 and shall be
of an accuracy class appropriate for the required overall accuracy of the metering installation.

A calibration report for VTs shall be traceable to national standards and shall indicate the VT error at
the rated voltage and at the rated burden.

Where the condition and/or accuracy class of existing VTs are either unknown or the accuracy class
is insufficient to comply with the required overall accuracy requirements, and the cost of replacing
them is substantial (particularly if it would require replacement switchgear), the procedures outlined for
CTs (4.4.2.3.1) shall be followed for the VTs.

4.4.2.3.4 Meters

All meters shall comply with the standards specified in 4.3.2.3, and shall have an approved test
laboratory calibration report.

Where a pulse output from a meter is to be used to derive loading information, the accuracy of the
pulse output shall be included in the calibration.
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19 NRS 057- 4:2001

4.4.2.3.5 Test blocks

Test blocks shall meet appropriate standards and shall be insulation-tested.

4.4.2.3.6 Data logger

Where new data loggers are installed, it shall be confirmed by the designer of the metering installation
that the data logger is compatible with the meter to which it is connected.

4.4.2.3.7 Modem

The modem shall be approved for connection to the communications network with which it will operate.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 20

Annex A
(informative)

Recording of information during design, installation and commissioning

A.1 The following information shall be recorded during commissioning or certification. Where utility
does not have a system for recording this information, a design checklist and site checklist should be
used based on the sample checklist in A.2 and A.3.

The following information shall be recorded during the design, commissioning or certification:

Customer details
– Name
– Address
– Metering point physical location
– MD
– Date of commissioning
– Tariff
CTs
– Manufacturer
– Serial numbers
– Ratios available
– Secondary current rating
– VA rating
– Core configuration: # Protection, # Metering
– Connected ratio
– Class (on connected ratio)
– Accuracy test certificates of CTs confirming compliance to IEC 60044-1
– Dedicated cores for metering?
– Compliance with design report
– Insulation test results
– Re-certification
– Polarity test results
– Connected burden test results
VTs
– Manufacturer
– Serial numbers
– Primary/Secondary voltage
– VA rating
– Winding configuration: # Protection, # Metering
– Class
– Test certificates of VTs confirming compliance to IEC 60186
– Fuse rating - primary
- secondary
– Dedicated metering supply?
– Compliance with design report
– Insulation test results
– Ratio verification test results
– Polarity test results
– Connected burden test results
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21 NRS 057- 4:2001

Panel
– Enclosure type
– Panel earthing checked?
– Panel wiring verified against drawings?
– Wiring continuity tested?
– Appropriate type of terminations used?
– VT circuit fuse rating
– Panel ancillary equipment verified against panel specification (design report)?
– Tightness checks on all connections
– Labels according to design document or drawings?
Cabling
– Size
– Cable and wire numbers checked against drawings
– Insulation test results for all CT and VT cables
– CT cables earthed in panel?
– Voltage drop test results for VT cables
– Appropriate type of terminations used?
– Tightness checks on all connections
Meters
– Manufacturer
– Type/Model
– Software version
– Serial numbers
– Class
– Single-phase/three phase
– 3-wire/4-wire
– Auxiliary supply details
– Voltage rating
– Current rating
– Meter VT ratio
– Meter CT ratio
– Initial reading
– Meter reading multiplication factor (K-factor) Internal/External meter constants
– Pulse value (units per impulse UPI) – (Pulse constant)
– Test certificates of meters confirming compliance to relevant IEC specifications
– Certification sticker attached
– Software configuration
– Meter time set
– Configured tariff scheme
– Digit configuration (significant and decimal digits)
– Digit scroll-over period
Data loggers
– Manufacturer
– Type/Model
– Serial numbers
– Auxiliary supply details
– Channel configuration
– Channel multipliers
– Battery checked
– Meter units match data logger
– Meter/data logger compatibility confirmed
– Data logger time set
– Data logger alarms working
– Certification report reference number
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Communication device
– Manufacturer
– Type/Model
– Serial number
– Auxiliary supply details
– Communication number
– Communication network approved
Drawings
– Adequacy of information
– Scheme drawing number
– As commissioned mark-ups completed.
Commissioning requirements
– Polarity test results
– Phase rotation test result
– Meter on-load accuracy test results
– Meter dial to data logger verification results
– Meter dial to master station data verification results
– Alarms through to host test results
– Pulsing through to customer tested?
– Set meter time
– Set data logger time
– Commissioning data recorded at all stakeholders?
– Alarms to host tested?
– Pulsing to customer tested?
Sealing details
– CT enclosure/terminals locked or sealed?
– CT test blocks sealed?
– VT enclosure/terminals locked or sealed?
– VT test blocks sealed?
– VT circuit fusing sealed?
– Meter covers sealed?
– Meter terminal covers sealed?
– Data logger covers sealed?
– Data logger terminal covers sealed?
– Meter enclosure locked or sealed?
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23 NRS 057- 4:2001

A.2 Design Checklist

Item Details Remarks

Customer:
Name
Address
Metering point
Notified MD
CTs:
Primary ratios
Secondary current rating
Connected ratio
Core configuration
VA rating
Class (see NRS 057-2)
To be used only for metering (Y/N)
VTs:
Primary voltage rating
Secondary voltage rating
VA rating
Winding configuration
Connected burden
Class (see NRS 057-2)
Fuse rating – primary
– secondary
Dedicated metering supply (Y/N)
Wiring
Conductor size
Insulation level
Terminations
Type
Panel
Enclosure type /drawing number
VT circuit fuse rating
Other
Meter:
Manufacturer
Model
Software version
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NRS 057- 4:2001 24

Design checklist (concluded)

Item Details Remarks

Active/reactive/combined
Accuracy class required by NRS 057-2
Single-phase/three-phase
3-wire/4-wire
Voltage rating
Current rating
Item Details Remarks
Meter VT ratio
Meter CT ratio
Programmed VT ratio
Programmed CT ratio
Internal meter constant
External meter constant
Value of least significant digit
(kwh/ kVA/ kVAR)
Expected time for most significant digit
to repeat
Software configuration
(scheme/tariff)
Impulse rate
Pulse constant
Auxiliary supply requirements
Data logger:
Manufacturer
Model
Logger multiplier
External alarm point to be monitored
Means of monitoring unauthorized
access
Meter units match data logger
Meter/data logger compatibility
confirmed
Channel configuration
Auxiliary supply requirements
Modem/Communication
Manufacturer
Model
Auxiliary supply details
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25 NRS 057- 4:2001

Drawings
Scheme drawing number

VT/CT certification checklist

Item ü
ü or details Remarks
CT make and serial number
CT ratios
CT rated burden
CT accuracy class
CT errors within accuracy limits
VT make and serial number
VT rated burden
VT accuracy class
VT errors within accuracy limits
VT ratio
Ratio verification test for VT
Documentation completed
Certification stickers attached
Test certificate reference number
Other

NOTE VT tests should be carried out in accordance with IEC 60186, and CT tests should be carried out in accordance
with IEC 60044-1.

Meter certification checklist

Item ü
ü or details Remarks
Meter make and serial number
Meter accuracy class
Meter accuracy within limits
Certification sticker attached
Software configuration (scheme/tariff)
Certification report reference number
Other

NOTE Ferraris disc meters should be tested in accordance with SABS IEC 60521, and electronic meters should be
tested in accordance with IEC 60687 or IEC 61036 as appropriate.
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NRS 057- 4:2001 26

A.3 Site installation checklist

Item ü or details Remarks

Customer:
Name
Address
Metering point
Date of commissioning
CTs:
Manufacturer
Serial number
Ratios available
Secondary current rating
Connected ratio
CT core terminal designation
VA rating
Class (on connected ratio)
Connected burden
Single earth point visible
Dedicated cores for metering
CT polarity checked
Red phase primary injection
White phase primary injection
Blue phase primary injection
Wiring integrity confirmed
Wiring polarity confirmed
Insulation test
Full compliance with design (Y/N)
VTs:
Manufacturer
Serial number
Primary voltage rating
Secondary voltage rating
VA rating
Connected burden
Class
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27 NRS 057- 4:2001

Core configuration
Fuse rating (primary /secondary)
Dedicated metering supply

Site installation checklist (continued)

Item ü or details Remarks

Insulation test
Polarity test
Full compliance with design (Y/N)
Meter:
Manufacturer
Model/Type
Serial number
Class
Voltage rating
Current rating
VT ratio
CT ratio
Programmed VT ratio
Programmed CT ratio
Internal meter constant
Certification sticker attached
Software configuration (scheme/tariff)
Meter time set
Maximum number of digits to the left of
the decimal
Certification report reference number
Initial reading
Full compliance with design (Y/N)
Data logger
Manufacturer
Model/Type
Serial numbers
Data logger time set
Data logger battery checked
Data logger alarms working
Channel multiplier
Verify channel configuration
Certification report reference number
Full compliance with design (Y/N)
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NRS 057- 4:2001 28

Site installation checklist (continued)

Item ü or details Remarks

Communication device
Manufacturer
Model/Type
Serial number
Communication network approved
Communication number
Full compliance with design (Y/N)
Drawings
Adequacy of information
As-built mark ups completed
Sealing details/Security
CT enclosure/terminals
CT cct intermediate terminals
VT circuit fuses
VT circuit intermediate terminals
Meter terminal cover(s)
Test block cover
Data logger terminal cover(s)
Meter enclosure
Other
Mounting
Equipment correctly mounted
Wiring, Fusing & panel
Labels according to design document
or drawings
Panel wiring verified against drawings
Panel ancilliary equipment verified
against panel specification
Appropriate type of terminations used
Panel earthing checked
Wiring continuity tested
Tightness checks on all terminations
Voltage circuits cross section
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29 NRS 057- 4:2001

Voltage drop across VT wiring

Current circuits cross section
Impulsing circuits cross section
Insulation test
No wiring joints

Site installation checklist (concluded)

Item ü or details Remarks

Fusing complies with design
Installation damage
Potential for future damage
Integrity of intermediate junctions
No extraneous equipment connected
Physical protection
Other
Prevailing load test checklist
Item ü
ü or details Remarks
Portable working standard connected
to test block
Meter disc turns or LED flashes
Polarity correct
Phase to phase / phase to neutral
voltages
Phase rotation correct
Phase angles
CT/VT ratio checks (indicative)
Comparison of portable working
standard
to meter (over integrating period)
Other

NOTE This test confirms that the meter accurately registers in accordance with the secondary currents and voltages
measured at the test block.

Output to host checklist

Item ü or details Remarks
Communication line connected
Communication line in service
Host programmed
Connection established with host
Data transferred correctly
Alarm through to host
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NRS 057- 4:2001 30

Pulsing
Certification report reference number
Check through to host
Other

Bibliography
The following documents, in addition to those listed in clause 2, were a source of reference in
compiling this specification. They do not constitute provisions of this specification, but are referenced
for further information.

IEC 60068-2-21:1999, Environmental testing – Part 2-21: Tests – Test U: Robustness of termination
and integral mounting devices.

IEC 60068-2-27:1987, Environmental testing – Part 2: Tests – Section 27: Test Ea and guidance:
Shock.

IEC 61000-4-2:2001, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-2: Testing and measuring
techniques – Section 2: Electrostatic discharge immunity test. (Amendment 2)

IEC 61000-4-3:2001, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-3: Testing and measuring
techniques – Section 3: Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field immunity test.
(Amendment 1)

IEC 61000-4-4:2000, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-4: Testing and measuring
techniques – Section 4: Electrical fast transient/burst immunity test. Basic EMC publication.

IEC 60068-2-75:1997, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests.

IEC 60529:2001, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures. (Amendment 1)

IEC 60695-2-1/0:1994, Fire hazard testing – Part 2: Test methods – Section 1/Sheet 0: Glow-wire test
methods – General.

IEC 61268:1995, Alternating current static var-hour meters for reactive energy (classes 2 and 3)

ISO/IEC Guide 25:1990, General requirements for the competence of calibration and testing
laboratories.

NRS 047-1:1999, Electricity supply Quality of service.

sabs pta