GE A-Series 9”and 24” Panel Box Extensions Equipped With
GE TRANQUELL Enhanced Thermal Protection (ETP) Series
High and Medium Exposure Surge Protective Devices (SPDs)
2020000604 (12/09) Page 1 of 15
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT NOTICE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Transformer X0 Bond Warning Statement………………………………………………………………………………..3
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….…………………….4
System Configuration and Voltage……………………………………………………………………………….…………….6
System Grounding and Bonding……………………………………………………………………………..……….….………6
SPD Installation on Ungrounded Power Systems……………………………………………………………………6
SPD Location / Primary Overcurrent Protection…………………………………………………..…………..……..6
VOLTAGE RATINGS AND POWER SOURCE CONFIGURATIONS………………………………….………..………………..7
NEC COMPLIANT GROUNDING AND BONDING EXAMPLE…………………………………………………………...……….8
INSTALLATION…………..………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………9
Line Status Indicators……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………13
Alarm Status Indicators………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13
Remote Alarm Contacts……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13
Test / Enable / Disable Switch…………………………………………………………………………………………………….14
THE ENTIRE CONTENT OF THIS MANUAL MUST BE READ AND FULLY UNDERSTOOD
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY INSTALLATION OR ENERGIZATION OF THE SPD.
If there are any questions about the operational status, or integrity of the electrical system prior to
installation of the SPD, please consult a qualified trained electrician before attempting to continue.
If the minimum requirements of this manual are not followed, the SPD could become irreversibly
damaged, and/or the electrical system and connected loads could be left unprotected.
Choosing the right product for the application, along with correct installation methods, as defined
within this manual, will allow the GE Tranquell SPD to provide the best possible protection for many
years.
Failure to comply with the applicable requirements of this manual can void the SPD warranty.
SPECIAL ATTENTION MUST BE GIVEN TO VERIF
NEUTRAL-GROUND (XO) BOND HAS BEEN MADE W
SUPPLIED FROM AN UPSTREAM TRANSFORMER OR
TYPE OF SEPARATELY DERIVED POWER SOURCE.
FAILURE TO PROVIDE THIS BOND, AS REQUIRE
OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, CAN RES
PHASE TO GROUND SOURCE VOLTAGE POTENTIAL
VOLTAGES CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO ELECTRICAL
WELL AS SAFETY HAZARDS INCLUDING FIRE, ELECTRICA
SERIOUS INJURY, OR DEATH.
WARNING
2020000604 (12/09) Page 3 of 15
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
GE Tranquell Enhanced Thermal Protection (ETP) Series Type 1 and Type 2 Surge Protective
Devices (formerly called TVSS), are designed for installation on low voltage electrical distribution
systems. GE SPDs are designed to protect electrical equipment loads against the damaging
effects of transient voltages that can be induced or generated as a result of remote lightning,
power equipment switching or high frequency disturbances.
All GE Tranquell ETP Series SPDs incorporate Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) technology to achieve
superior transient suppression performance. Integral to each MOV is a unique Thermal
Protection System that provides effective circuit interruption in the event of an abnormal phase
overvoltage condition. Other standard features include protection status indicating lights, an
audible alarm with test and disable features, form C alarm contacts for remote monitoring, a
surge event counter, and built in EMI filtering. A surge rated disconnect switch is provided on
select models.
The GE Tranquell SPD units described in this manual are enclosed in GE A-Series Panelboard Box
Extension Enclosures and are UL/cUL Listed, conforming to UL 1283 and UL 1449 3rd Edition
where applicable. All published ratings are in accordance with ANSI / IEEE C62.41.1-2002,
C62.41.2-2002 and NEMA LS1-1992 (R2000) recommended guidelines.
Model covered by this manual are:
GE Tranquell TPME and TPHE, UL Type 2 model types ending with the part number suffix of BX9S,
BX9WS, BX9F, BX9WF, BX24WF or BX24WS. (Example: TPHE277Y20BX24WS)
Model types are also available in a UL Type 1 rating. These models will be labeled with part
number suffixes of BX9ST1, BX9WST1, BX9FT1, BX9WFT1, BX24WFT1 or BX24WST1.
APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
Determining the surge protection to be provided in a facility or for a particular system or
equipment can be a complex task that should be addressed as early as possible. This is typically
when a new facility is constructed or sensitive electronic equipment has been installed. The
following guidelines are offered for application assistance:
Prior to installing any SPD, ensure that your facility electric supply system is properly
installed and connected in accordance with all applicable national and local codes and
safety procedures. All equipment and systems should be installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions.
Utilize the personnel from your local utility, your engineering department, GE application or
service engineering, or a professional consulting engineering firm for technical guidance or
troubleshooting.
Understand your system, and the capabilities and limitations of SPD and other power
conditioning equipment.
Select the proper GE Tranquell Series SPD unit for your system voltage, configuration, and
the anticipated surge environment. Some of the key parameters for selection are defined
below:
SPD TYPE
The SPDs covered in this document are rated and marked accordingly for use on Type 1 or Type 2
applications. Type 1 SPDs can be installed on either line or load side of the electrical distribution
system’s main breaker or fuse. Type 2 SPDs can be installed only on the load side.
2020000604 (12/09) Page 4 of 15
MAXIMUM CONTINUOUS OPERATING VOLTAGE (MCOV)
This value defines the maximum line-to-line or line-to-neutral continuous AC voltage that can be
safely applied to the protector. MCOV levels for GE Tranquell Series SPDs are set at 115% of
nominal system voltage. For 120-volt AC systems, the MCOV is 125%. If there is a risk that the
electrical system voltage could exceed MCOV, or if any unusually high power frequencies,
Temporary Over Voltages (TOV), or phase swells are anticipated, contact your GE Sales Engineer for
further assistance.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
Protectors are available for single (split) phase with neutral and ground, three-phase grounded WYE,
three-phase ungrounded WYE, three-phase high-leg delta, and for three-phase ungrounded delta
systems. (See page 7 for power source configurations)
PEAK IMPULSE RATING
Peak surge current capability is an important characteristic for a SPD. The rating per mode should
equal or exceed the maximum surge expected in service. GE Tranquell SPDs are available in
maximum surge ratings of 65kA, 80kA, 100kA, 125kA, 150kA, 200kA and 300kA.
UL 1449 NOMINAL DISCHARGE CURRENT (In)
The UL Nominal Discharge Current (In) rating should be considered when an SPD is selected for use
within a UL96A Lightning Protection System. UL96A requires a Nominal Discharge Current (In)
rating of 20kA for Type 1 or Type 2 SPDs.
SHORT CIRCUIT CURRENT RATING
GE Tranquell TPHE type SPD units are UL certified for use on electrical systems with rated
ampacities up to 200,000 symmetrical amperes maximum. TPME type SPDs are UL rated for
systems up to 100,000 A.
ENVIRONMENTAL RATINGS
The SPD is provided in a NEMA 1 Rated Panelboard extension enclosure and is designed to operate
within an ambient temperature range of –40oC to 65oC (-40oF to 149oF) with a relative humidity
level between 0-95% non-condensing.
A direct lightning strike, that occurs within close proximity of an installed SPD, can result in
surge currents that exceed the SPD’s energy handling capability. This can result in reduced
life expectancy or pre-mature failure of the SPD. Electrical power system supply voltages in
excess of the SPD MCOV rating, can also cause SPD failure.
Should a condition occur that results in premature failure of the SPD, the suppression
circuitry will short, thereby allowing the integral SPD fusing to interrupt current flow without
disrupting power to the connected loads. However, after SPD failure, the load equipment will
remain unprotected from subsequent surge activity until the SPD is replaced.
Increased rate of rise or higher surge current magnitudes can result in increased surge let-
thru levels due to the non-linear clamping characteristics of SPDs. Conditions can occur
where the surge withstand capability of the protected equipment is exceeded even though
the SPD is functioning properly. In such cases, additional SPDs may be required, located
closer to the sensitive load(s). (For additional information, refer to Standard IEEE 1100-2005,
Section 3.4.3)
GE Tranquell ETP Series WYE-connected SPDs have both normal mode (L-N, L-L) and
common mode (L-G, N-G) protection. Protection between neutral and ground is provided on
units designed for WYE-connected applications.
2020000604 (12/09) Page 5 of 15
WARNING
SPD AND VOID THE PRO
DUCT WARRANTY.
THE EQUIPMENT COVERED BY THESE INSTRUCTIONS SHOULD
PRE-INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS:
Prior to energization of the GE Tranquell SPD, it is critical that the following items have been
addressed.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENERGIZE THE SPD OR CONTINUE WITH THE INSTALLATION IF
ALL OF THESE CONDITIONS HAVE NOT BEEN MET, OR ARE UNKNOWN.
1. SYSTEM CONFIGURATION AND VOLTAGE
Check the configuration and voltage supply ratings to ensure that the proper SPD model
number has been selected for your system. The SPD model number can be found on the UL
label affixed to the SPD Enclosure. The SPD selection can be verified by comparing the Model
Number to the correct electrical system described in the “VOLTAGE RATINGS & POWER
SOURCE CONFIGURATIONS” chart shown on page 7.
BE INSTALLED AND SERVICED ONLY BY COMPETENT,
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL UTILIZING PROPER SAFETY PRACTICES
AND PROCEDURES THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE WRITTEN FOR
SUCH PERSONNEL AND ARE NOT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE
FOR ADEQUATE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE IN SAFE
PROCEDURES FOR THIS TYPE OF EQUIPMENT.
2. SYSTEM GROUNDING AND BONDING
Verify that a NEC (National Electrical Code) compliant X0 bond has been made at the
upstream transformer or other separately derived system that feeds the SPD. Per NEC
Article 250.30, this bond must be in place on all 3-Phase WYE, 3-Phase Hi-Leg Delta, and
Single Phase Split-Systems. Refer to page 8 for an example of an installation that complies
with these NEC recommendations.
WARNING
FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE X0 BOND WILL DAMAGE THE
Verify that there have not been multiple instances of Neutral to Ground bonds on the
electrical system. These bonds, while either intentional or accidental, result in Ground
currents that can create differential voltage potentials between Neutral and Ground.
Redundant Neutral to Ground connections can result in damage to the SPD and are in
violation of NEC.
3. SPD INSTALLATION ON UNGROUNDED POWER SYSTEMS
Ungrounded power systems are inherently unstable and can produce excessively high lineto-ground voltages during certain fault conditions. During these fault conditions any
electrical equipment, including an SPD, may be subjected to voltages which exceed their
designed ratings. This information is being provided to the user so that an informed decision
can be made before installing any electrical equipment on an ungrounded power system.
4. SPD LOCATION / PRIMARY OVERCURRENT PROTECTION
Per the National Electrical Code (NEC Article 285), Type 1 SPDs may be placed on either side
of the main service breaker or fuse (line or load) without the need for supplemental
overcurrent protection. Type 2 SPDs are allowed to be placed on the load side only.
2020000604 (12/09) Page 6 of 15
VOLTAGE RATINGS & POWER SOURCE CONFIGURATIONS
TRANQUELL
MODEL
TPME / TPHE 120S
TPME / TPHE 120Y
TPME / TPHE 220Y
TPME / TPHE 240Y
TPME / TPHE 277Y
TPME / TPHE 347Y
TPME / TPHE 240D
TPME / TPHE 480D
NOMINAL
VOLTAGE
(50/60Hz)
120 / 208-
240V
120 / 208V
220 / 380V
240 / 415V
277 / 480V
347 / 600V
240V
480V
120 / 240VTPME / TPHE 240H
MAXIMUM
CONTINOUS
OPERATING VOLTAGE
(MCOV)
150V (L-N / L-G)
150V (L-N / L-G)
320V (L-N / L-G)
320V (L-N / L-G)
320V (L-N / L-G)
420V (L-N / L-G)
270V (L-G)
550V (L-G)
150V (L-N / L-G)
Phase A & C
270V (L-N / L-G)
Phase B
SYSTEM
TYPE
Single Phase
3 Wire + Ground
Dual Phase
3 Wire + Ground
Three Phase
WYE,
4 Wire + Ground
Three Phase
Delta,
3 Wire
Three Phase
WYE,
3 Wire
Three Phase
Delta Hi-Leg,
4 Wire + Ground
SOURCE
CONFIGURATION
L1
N
L2
L1
N
L2
L1
N
L2
L3
L1
L2
L3
L1
L2
L3
L3
N
L1
L2
2020000604 (12/09) Page 7 of 15
Example of an NEC Compliant Grounding Arrangement for a Separately Derived System
X2
X1
PHASE C
PHASE B
PHASE A
NEUTRAL
GROUND
X0
SPD
N
G
Equipment Grounding
Conductor Ref. NEC
250.32 (B) (1)
X3
Bonding Jumper
Ref. NEC 250
-30 (a) (1)
Grounding Electrode
Conductor Ref. NEC
250.62 - 250.64
Grounding Electrode
Ref. NEC 250
- 250.66
-30 (a) (4)
Primary Dist.
Panel w/Overcurrent
or Service Disconnect
Means
Note:
Primary transformer windings
not shown for simplicity
The illustration shown above, provides a recommended method for grounding a separately
derived power system, per the National Electrical Code, Article 250.30. Please check with the
local municipality or governing authority for additional codes or other approved regulatory
requirements before attempting to configure any electrical power distribution system.
2020000604 (12/09) Page 8 of 15
POWER MUST BE PROVEN DISCONNECTED BEFORE STARTING
INSTALLATION, INSPECTION OR MAINTENANCE. FAILURE TO
DO SO MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, DEATH AND/OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.
WARNING
INSTALLATION:
Before attempting installation, make sure that the pre-installation requirements of this manual
have been satisfied. If the status of the pre-installation requirements are not known, do not
attempt to continue.
1. MOUNTING
GE Tranquell A-Series Panel Extension SPD units are designed to be installed on GE A-Series
electrical service panels. These instructions shall be considered as the general guidelines to
insure that the SPD is installed safely, while providing the maximum amount of surge
protection available. Before making connections to the unit, verify that the unit model
number, voltage rating and ampere ratings are appropriate for connection to the intended
power source. See page 7 for Voltage Ratings and Power Source Configurations.
Select a breaker location that will allow for a minimum length of wire between the SPD
power terminals and the electrical service panel.
2. POWER CONNECTIONS
Mechanical terminals are provided on the SPD for connection to the electrical power system.
These terminals will accommodate #14 to 2/0 AWG stranded copper conductors. The
minimum recommended wire size for the GE Tranquell SPD is # 6 AWG. See page 10 for
terminal location and identification.
3. WIRE ROUTING
The length of wiring to the SPD must be kept at a minimum for the best performance. Wire
lengths should be short, strait runs between the SPD and power source. Wiring impedance
can be further reduced by twisting the phase, neutral and ground conductors together and
routed in the same raceway or channel. Always avoid sharp bends when routing SPD
connecting conductors.
4. CIRCUIT BREAKER
A dedicated circuit breaker is not required for TPME or TPHE models. However, GE
recommends a 60A rated breaker to serve as a local means of disconnect should the SPD
require servicing or replacement.
5. REMOTE ALARM CONTACTS
Remote Alarm Monitoring Contacts are provided on all SPD model types covered by this
manual. If this type of monitoring is desired, refer to page 10 for the location and wiring
configuration of these contacts. The contacts are dry, 1 form C type, rated 120 VAC, 1 A (30
VDC, 2A) maximum. Once the SPD has been energized and is operating as intended, the
alarm contacts will switch to “Normal Status”. The contacts will only change back to “Alarm
Status” if there is a failure within the SPD suppression circuitry, or if power has been
disconnected from the SPD. Allowing the Remote Alarm Contacts remain unconnected will
not affect the performance or integrity of the SPD.
6. PRE-ENERGIZATION CHECK
Once all of the pre-installation conditions have been met and the GE Tranquell SPD has
been installed, the SPD can now be energized. For SPD Operational Status, refer to
Operation and Maintenance Sections – pages 13 & 14.
2. Remove cross member by loosing the top (2) screws holding the cross member to the mounting
collar and sliding the cross member up from the extension trough.
3. Remove the existing end wall from the panelboard box where the extension is to be mounted.
4. Position the extension trough onto the panelboard box with the mounting collar on the outside.
Secure the extension to the box using the #10-32-7/16” screws provided in the hardware kit.
Screws should be installed from the inside of the box and threaded into the mounting collar. The
top screw on each side should be left loose to allow for mounting the cross member.
5. Install wiring to remote alarm contacts. (See page 10)
6. Install ground wire to the ground lug of the box extension assembly.
7. Install neutral conductor from SPD to neutral bus. (grounded WYE systems)
8. Install wiring from the breaker to the SPD. (See page 10)
9. Torque all lug connections to 120 inch-lbs.
10. Install the cross member by sliding it onto the top screws. The notched portion of the cross
member should extend into the box extension. The top surface of the cross member should be
flush with the Box flange. Adjust as necessary and tighten the mounting screws securely.
11. Re-install the safety ground wire, panelboard box and extension covers.
2. Remove cross member by loosing the top (2) screws holding the cross member to the mounting
collar and sliding the cross member up from the extension trough.
3. Remove the existing end wall from the panelboard box where the extension is to be mounted.
4. Position the extension trough onto the panelboard box with the mounting collar on the outside.
Secure the extension to the box using the #10-32-7/16” screws provided in the hardware kit.
Screws should be installed from the inside of the box and threaded into the mounting collar. The
top screw on each side should be left loose to allow for mounting the cross member.
5. Install wiring to remote alarm contacts. (See page 10)
6. Install ground wire to the ground lug of the box extension assembly.
7. Install neutral conductor from SPD to neutral bus. (grounded WYE systems)
8. Install wiring from the breaker to the SPD. (See page 10)
9. Torque all lug connections to 120 inch-lbs.
10. Install the cross member by sliding it onto the top screws. The notched portion of the cross
member should extend into the box extension. The top surface of the cross member should be
flush with the Box flange. Adjust as necessary and tighten the mounting screws securely.
11. Re-install the safety ground wire, panelboard box and extension covers.
2020000604 (12/09) Page 12 of 15
OPERATION:
After applying power to the SPD, verify that the protection monitoring circuits are functioning
correctly. If all status alarms indicate “normal”, the SPD has been successfully installed and is
operational.
Surge Counter
Reset Button
WARNING
UPON ENERGIZATION OF THE SPD, IF ANY OF THE LAMPS OR ALARMS
INDICATES AN ABNORMAL CONDITION, POWER SHOULD PROMPTLY BE
DISCONNECTED FROM THE SPD. THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM SHOULD BE
INSPECTED AND THE PRE-INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS SHOULD BE
VALIDATED. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LEAVE POWER APPLIED TO THE SPD, OR REENERGIZE THE SPD IN THE EVENT OF AN ALARM CONDITION. PLEASE
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL GE REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE.
SPD Display Panel
LINE 1LINE 2
LINE 3
Line Status
Indicator LEDs
Surge Counter
LCD Display
SURGE PROTECTIVE DEVICE
SURGE PROTECTIVE DEVICE
0
SURGE COUNTER
TEST
ENABLE
DISABLE
ALARM
(
(
( )
)
)
Alarm
Test / Enable /
Indicator LED
Disable Switch
1. LINE STATUS INDICATOR LEDs
The green line status LED’s provide visual indication of SPD health status. As long as the SPD
is connected to the electrical system supply voltage and the SPD suppression circuitry is
functional, the line status indicators will be illuminated green. There is one green indicator
per each protected phase.
2. ALARM STATUS INDICATOR LEDs
When illuminated, the red Alarm Status Indicator LED will provide notification of a SPD failure
condition. Verify the Alarm Status Indicator is not illuminated upon startup.
3. REMOTE ALARM CONTACTS
Remote Alarm Contacts are available to remotely monitor the health status of the SPD. An
alarm condition will result in a status change of the contacts. These contacts do not affect
2020000604 (12/09) Page 13 of 15
the performance of the SPD and are not required to be connected for the SPD to function as
intended. (See page 10 for Alarm Contact details)
4. TEST / ENABLE / DISABLE SWITCH
Enable Position - This is the normal position for the tri-position switch. In the Enable
position, the Audible Alarm will sound in the event of a SPD failure mode.
Disable Position – This position will silence the Audible Alarm if desired. The Disable
switch will not disable or disconnect the SPD from the electrical power system.
Test Position – The Test switch provides a quick diagnostic status of the Audible Alarm,
Alarm Status Indicator and Remote Alarm Contacts. When pressed, the Audible Alarm
will sound, the Alarm Lamp will illuminate, and the Remote Contacts will change state.
The “Test” position is momentary. Once pressed, the switch will automatically reset to
the “Enable Position” upon release.
5. SURGE COUNTER LCD
The Surge Counter will sense and record transient surge events that have been mitigated by
the SPD. The counter has been designed to detect transients that exceed the peak sine wave
by more than 70%. If desired, the Surge Counter Display can be reset to zero at any time by
pressing the reset button located on the LCD display.
MAINTENANCE:
GE does not provide a specific schedule for preventative maintenance as conditions will vary
based on location and the environmental factors presented at each installation site. However,
periodic inspections should be scheduled to verify that the SPD does not indicate a failure mode.
Inspections should also be made to check the integrity of the electrical supply connections to the
SPD to ensure continued reliable performance.
SERVICING / TROUBLESHOOTING:
The GE Tranquell ETP Series SPD contains no user serviceable parts and requires no calibration.
The rugged design of the SPD should provide many years of service.
Should a condition occur that results in premature failure of the GE Tranquell SPD, the integral
SPD suppression thermal fusing will safely interrupt current flow through the SPD without
disrupting power to the protected equipment. This will remove the SPD from the power system
and the load equipment will remain unprotected from subsequent surge activity until the
SPD is replaced.
If a change in operational status/alarm indication occurs, a qualified (licensed) electrician should
inspect the electrical system to verify electrical system integrity. If the SPD remains in alarm
after system inspection/corrections have been made, the SPD should be replaced. For further
assistance, contact your local sales representative or call GE Power Quality at 1-800-637-1738.
WARNING
IN THE EVENT OF AN SPD ALARM CONDITION, DO NOT ATTEMPT
TO DIS-ASSEMBLE THE SPD TO REPLACE FUSING OR OTHER
COMPONENTS. THE SPD CONTAINS THERMALLY PROTECTED
MOV’S THAT WILL ONLY OPEN WHEN THE SPD HAS FAILED IN A
NON-SERVICEABLE CONDITION. THE ENTIRE SPD MUST BE
REPLACED.
CONTACT GE POWER QUALITY AT 1-800-637-1738
2020000604 (12/09) Page 14 of 15
Power Quality
830 W 40th Street, Chicago, IL 60609 USA
www.gepowerquality.com
All Rights Reserved
NOTICE
These instructions do not purport to cover all details or variations in equipment nor to provide for
every possible contingency to be met in connection with installation, operation, or maintenance.
Should further information be desired or should particular problems arise which are not covered
sufficiently for the purchaser's purposes, the matter should be referred to the GE Company.
TRANQUELL IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY