4
B-01031 USBS
Manual (12-19-18)
The BREAK-SAFE® has been tested to the full voltage and amperage rating for nominal
power factors of 70%-80% for both load break and load make applications. However,
the tool is rated by system voltages. For example, a 15 kV tool on a 15 kV system will
usually experience voltages of 15 kV / √3 or about 8.6 kV. It is at these actual (√3 ) system
voltage levels that the tool is rated for line charging and cable charging applications.
The BREAK-SAFE
®
USBS-15-1-PS and USBS-15-2-PS models have been tested at full
15 kV. This does not mean the tool is rated for phase to ground applications of a 27 kV
system. Use a 15 kV BREAK-SAFE
®
for 15 kV system voltages and below. Use a 27 kV
BREAK-SAFE
®
for 27 kV system voltages and below. Use a 38 kV BREAK-SAFE
®
for 38
kV system voltages and below. Use a 46 kV BREAK-SAFE
®
for 46 kV system voltages
and below.
The tool is designed to be used on three phase systems, but only on a single phase at a
time. Typical three phase applications require three separate tools.
Outlined below are some circuit restrictions known to exist:
• Do not utilize the BREAK-SAFE
®
tool in situations where ferroresonance
can produce over-voltage situations. An example of this involves switching
unloaded transformers that are delta-connected three phase and wyeconnected three phase with primary neutral ungrounded.
• The tool should never be used in phase-to-phase applications.
• Do not utilize the BREAK-SAFE
®
to switch unloaded transformers.
• Do not utilize the BREAK-SAFE
®
to switch capacitor banks.
! !
WARNING
When working with the BREAK-SAFE® always assume the tool is
energized at all times. Never consider the tool body as rated insulation.
! !
WARNING
e BREAK-SAFE® is NOT a fuse. It should be
used in a temporary capacity only.
! !
WARNING
Carefully inspect the tool prior to each use. Damaged components
can result in personal injury and or equipment damage.
Line and Tool Preparation
1. Do not exceed the maximum voltage or amperage rating of the tool (TABLE 1).
2. Insulate the pole and conductor as required by the supervising utility safety practices.
3. Clean the conductor at each location where the BREAK-SAFE
®
and jumper cable will
be attached. Clean and inspect the conductor bar before attaching a jumper cable.
4. If the BREAK-SAFE
®
is equipped with a duckbill head (USBS-XX-2-PS) ensure that all
attachment fasteners are tight and secure.
! !
WARNING
e BREAK-SAFE® is not waterproof. Do not use the BREAK-SAFE® in
wet conditions. If inclement weather is expected aer installation, cover
tool with an approved insulating rubber blanket.
! !
WARNING
Only trained and qualied personnel should operate,
inspect and maintain this equipment.
! !
WARNING
Always remove the BREAK-SAFE® from the circuit, or remove the
jumper attached to the conductor bar, aer each load break operation.
e BREAK-SAFE
®
is not rated insulation
nor is it considered a “visible gap”.