Isolator Switches Operations

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Questions and Answers

What immediate action should the TPC take upon receiving advice of a breakdown of the OHE?

Report the incident to the nearest station.

Switch off the 25 kV supply to the OHE affected. (correct)

Switch on the power supply to the affected area.

Inspect the damaged area personally.

Which of the following is NOT a condition that necessitates an emergency power block?

A tree falling on the OHE.

Derailment on electrified lines.

A damaged contact wire fouling the vehicle gauge.

A minor repair required for a locomotive. (correct)

What information is essential to provide when reporting an abnormality on the OHE?

All essential information including name and location. (correct)

The history of previous abnormalities in the section.

The weather conditions at the time of the incident.

The likelihood of trains being affected.

What should be done if the damage is heavy or dimensions are infringed?

Take steps to protect the lines according to rules. Signup and view all the answers

After receiving incident details, what should the TPC do before obtaining more detailed information?

Switch off the power supply to the section affected. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key responsibilities of every railway official regarding abnormalities on the OHE?

To report abnormalities to the TPC or relevant personnel. Signup and view all the answers

When reporting an emergency, how should the reason for the emergency power block be conveyed?

Brief, to the point, and explicit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Form ETR. 1?

To block lines for electric traction purposes Signup and view all the answers

What information is required in the 'Block the following line/s' section of Form ETR. 1?

Limits between which the block is required Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as part of the message exchange process?

Sending a formal letter for record-keeping Signup and view all the answers

In Form ETR. 1, which roles are specified for sending and receiving the block message?

Traction Power Controller and Section Controller Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by 'Duration' in the block message?

The expected time length of the blocking Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to the overhead equipment of an elementary section when the isolator number is opened?

It should be made dead and earthed. Signup and view all the answers

What does the block statement indicate about traffic movement?

All traffic movement is suspended in the specified sections. Signup and view all the answers

How should the station master communicate the closing of the interruptor number?

Through a written acknowledgment. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen to the elementary sections after the isolator number is closed?

They should be made alive and available for electric stock. Signup and view all the answers

Which section is responsible for receiving the local block acknowledgment?

Traction Power Controller Section Signup and view all the answers

What information is NOT required in the local block acknowledgment?

Specific reason for the block. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the signature in the closing statement of the interruptor number?

It confirms the individual actions taken. Signup and view all the answers

What details are likely included in the local block duration?

Exact hours and minutes of the block. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a part of the local block notification procedure?

Communicating with external parties. Signup and view all the answers

What is required before work can commence on electrical equipment by unauthorized persons?

A written permit-to-work from an authorized person Signup and view all the answers

Who is authorized to issue a permit-to-work for electrical equipment?

An authorized person of the Electric Traction Branch not below the rank of a Senior Linesman Signup and view all the answers

What must the person in-charge of the work do upon completion of the task?

Cancel the permit-to-work card and return it to the authorized person Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if there's an interruption in telephone communication with TPC?

Restore normal conditions and cancel the power block if possible Signup and view all the answers

Who retains a duplicate copy of the permit-to-work card?

The authorized person who issued it Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes the cancellation of the permit-to-work?

Withdraw all materials and inform TPC Signup and view all the answers

In the case of multiple working parties in a sub-sector, who is responsible for the permit to work?

One authorized person designated by TPC Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured before restoring normal conditions on equipment if telephone communication is down?

That no other party has been given a permit for the same section Signup and view all the answers

What information is conveyed in the message sent to TPC upon completion of work?

Confirmation that work is completed and power supply can be restored Signup and view all the answers

What documentation must the person in-charge keep as acknowledgment before commencing work?

An acknowledgment of the permit-to-work card Signup and view all the answers

What must be exhibited when removing the red warning collar to permit shunting movement of an electric locomotive towards the dead section?

A hand stop signal Signup and view all the answers

Where should the shunting movement stop when an electric locomotive is being moved into the main line through the turn-out?

At limiting mast 'P' Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a station master to allow other locomotives to enter the dead section?

A personal inspection to ensure no electric or OHE vehicles are present Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the red warning collars placed on levers near the dead section?

To give protection to the dead section Signup and view all the answers

What procedure is followed when the TPC and the Section controller are in adjacent rooms for power block communication?

Messages are sent in duplicate for acknowledgment Signup and view all the answers

Which form is used for exchanging messages between TPC and authorized persons during shut downs?

Form ETR.2 Signup and view all the answers

How many parts does Form ETR.1 comprise for power block messages?

Three parts Signup and view all the answers

What does an authorized person need to issue a permit-to-work after taking a power block?

Completion of Form ETR.3 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the movement of electric locomotives into the dead section?

Movement is permitted only if no electric vehicles are included in the train Signup and view all the answers

What action should a driver take when instructed not to move beyond a specific point during shunting?

Stop at the designated point Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should be taken before opening an isolator switch?

Confirm that there is no current flowing through the switch. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for verifying that a sub-sector is dead before opening an isolator switch?

The TPC Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can isolator switches in yards and sheds be opened?

When the entire section is visible. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if an isolator switch is opened while current is passing through it?

Severe arcing will occur at the switch contacts. Signup and view all the answers

Which action can a duly authorized person take regarding the closure of isolator switches?

Close the switch swiftly in one motion regardless of load status. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement to operate an isolator switch in yards?

A surrounding area lockdown is enforced. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done immediately if there is a loss or damage of the padlock or key for an isolator switch?

Report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured regarding keys controlling lever frames when points and signals are locally operated?

They must be kept with the Station Master on duty. Signup and view all the answers

What action must be taken before a warning collar can be removed from a signal lever?

Exchange messages with a designated private member. Signup and view all the answers

In the absence of a controlling signal for an electric train entering a dead section, what is the required signal arrangement?

A hand stop signal must be displayed at the specific point. Signup and view all the answers

How many warning collars may be required in a large yard to ensure proper safety protocols?

Several, depending on the size and layout of the yard. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for placing warning collars on electric slide instruments or relevant keys?

The Cabin Assistant on duty has the responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step an authorized person must take before commencing work on electrical equipment?

Obtain a written permit-to-work in the prescribed form. Signup and view all the answers

Who is required to hold the permit-to-work card after it has been issued?

The authorized person who issued it. Signup and view all the answers

What action must the person in-charge take after completing work on electrical equipment?

Cancel the permit-to-work card and report to TPC. Signup and view all the answers

What should an authorized person do if there is a telephone interruption while canceling a permit-to-work?

Ensure no other permits exist for the same section before restoring conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the 'authorized' person regarding the permit-to-work process?

They must hold a rank of Senior Linesman or higher. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of multiple working parties, who is ultimately responsible for the permit-to-work?

Only one authorized person designated for the sector. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes the cancellation of a permit-to-work?

The withdrawal of men and materials from the worksite. Signup and view all the answers

What must happen immediately upon receiving a permit-to-work card?

The recipient must acknowledge receipt in writing. Signup and view all the answers

What is required from the authorized person when a permit-to-work is issued for work by unauthorized persons?

Earth the electrical equipment specified prior to issuance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of longitudinal protection during a power block?

To prevent the movement of electric rolling-stock on the same track where power is blocked. Signup and view all the answers

Which component is part of a section insulator designed to ensure smooth passage of electric rolling-stock?

Two runners connected to the contact wire. Signup and view all the answers

What should occur immediately after a power block is granted?

TPC must be notified before and after the shutdown. Signup and view all the answers

How are local power blocks officially documented?

In the Form ETR-4 prescribed for recording local power blocks. Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken to avoid bridging during a power block?

Guarantee that all electric rolling-stock has lowered pantographs. Signup and view all the answers

Who are the stakeholders required to take measures detailed in the operational procedures for power blocks?

Station Master, Cabin Assistant Station Master, and other responsible personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured before earthing equipment in the context of a power block?

All due precautions as prescribed must be followed. Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism helps separate different sections of OHE in a power block environment?

Section insulators installed on crossovers. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial requirement for the issue of a permit-to-work on electrical equipment?

An authorized person must have taken a power block. Signup and view all the answers

What is the protocol before a power block is granted regarding the protection of dead sections?

All Station Masters and Cabin Assistant Station Masters must confirm protection measures. Signup and view all the answers

Which among the following is NOT included in the Station Working Rules for Longitudinal and Transverse Protection?

A list of personnel authorized to modify equipment. Signup and view all the answers

Who is primarily responsible for maintaining protection until a power block is canceled?

Station Master and Cabin Assistant Station Masters. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect must be cataloged in the Station Working Rules due to the risks of accidentally energizing dead sections?

Protective measures for granting power blocks for various sections. Signup and view all the answers

When can the Section Controller permit the removal of protection?

Once the TPC cancels the power block. Signup and view all the answers

What document is deemed valid for granting a power block regarding wiring and sectional arrangements?

The specific drawing of wired and unwired tracks. Signup and view all the answers

Which role is NOT mentioned in the procedure for ensuring that protective measures are taken before a power block?

Power Block Coordinator. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to track modification procedures depicted in the Station Working Rules?

Modifications must be incorporated into the defined drawings prior to implementation. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a critical duty for the Station Master, Yard Master, and Assistant Yard Master regarding protective measures?

To be well-acquainted with the protective measures outlined in the Station Working Rules. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the insulated overlap span and section insulator with respect to electric rolling-stock?

They are key safety features that prevent electrical accidents. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

20600 Operation of Isolator Switches

Isolator switches are used to section off overhead lines (OHE) for maintenance
Operating handles must be kept locked open or closed
Isolator switches are not designed to break current, only circuits with no current
Opening a switch with current can cause severe arcing and operator danger
Isolator switches on main lines can only be opened if the relevant sub-sector is dead, as per TPC instructions
TPC must ensure the sub-sector is dead before opening an isolator switch
Adjacent interruptors can be closed simultaneously

20601 Isolators in Yards and Sheds

Isolator switches in yards/sheds can be opened if the entire section is clear (visible) and no locomotives with raised pantographs
If conditions aren't met, follow procedures of 20600-4

20602 Maintenance Blocks

Two types of blocks for maintenance work on electric traction installations:
- Traffic Block: Used for major repairs; granted by Section Controller, with consulted TPC
- Power Block: Used for smaller repairs that doesn't need a traffic block, granted by TPC and by Section Controller
Three types of power blocks
- Emergency Power Block: Used in case of system breakdown or injuries
- Pre-arranged Power Block: Used for planned work after passage of scheduled trains
- Locally Arranged Power Block: Used for siding, yard, or shed work.

20603 Power Blocks

Power block types : Emergency, Pre-arranged, Locally arranged

20604 Emergency Power Blocks

Power block is required in cases like OHE break down, injuries, or equipment falling down.

20605 Reporting Abnormalities in OHE

All railway officials must report issues like malfunctions, damaged equipment, or safety issues, either directly to TPC or through Station Master or Section Controller.

20606 Request for Emergency Power Block

The person reporting a breakdown must provide details like location of issue, nature of issue, and name of reporter.

20607 Action to be taken by TPC

Upon receiving the report, TPC will de-energize affected section, advise Section Controller to switch off, and arrange for protection measures

20608 Precautions after Emergency Power Block is imposed

No work on the affected lines will begin until authorized OHE personnel arrive
Power must not be restored by TPC until authorized personnel has confirmed earthing at multiple points.

20609 Identification of the Sectors, Sub-Sectors, and Elementary Sections

It's crucial that personnel identify areas correctly.
Sectors are areas of overhead lines that can be powered by a feeder circuit breaker at a substation.
Sub-sectors are identified by the names of the switching stations.
Elementary sections are numbered according to direction of power supply, using two/three digits to describe the interrupter, and two-digits for the elementary section number.

20610 Telephone Messages

All messages regarding shutdowns, restorations, permits-to-work etc must be confirmed by private number exchanges for clarity
A private number book must be maintained for all telephone exchanges to ensure clear communication and accountability.

20611 Procedure for Obtaining Traffic or Power Blocks and Permits-to-work

Urgent work needs immediate power blocks and permits-to-work.
Maintenance statements for maintenance work must to be submitted by 10am on the first working day to the area Sr. DEE (TrD), containing the particulars of works, location, and trains involved, whether the track is for steam or diesel.
A consolidated statement for weekly work must be submitted by 12 noon on Wednesday to the Senior Divisional Operating Manager

20612 Pre-arranged Power Block

For pre-arranged power blocks, Section Controller confirmation for availability must be obtained two hours before the required time.
Maintenance teams should be ready in time.
Section Controller ensures protections are in place on neighboring sectors.
TPC confirms availability and instructs staff to begin work.

20613 Restoration Of Supply After a Permit-to-work is Returned

After work is complete, ensure all employees and materials are removed from the area
All security measures should be ensured prior to reconnection
TPC will inform the relevant personnel to restore power supply

20614 Work by other than Authorized Persons

unauthorized personnel cannot work on electrical equipment without a written permit-to-work from an authorized person(Senior Linesman or above)
An authorized person will earth the equipment and provide a permit- to-work card before handing over the work permit to the worker in-charge
Once work is completed, permit-to-work is cancelled

20615 Local Cancellation of Permit-to-Work When Telephones are Interrupted

If phone line is down, follow instructions listed in para 20615
Local personnel must restore normal (Live) conditions (if possible) and ensure no other groups have a permit-to-work during the period.

20616 Multiple Working Parties

For multiple parties working on the same sub-section, only one person can receive the permit-to-work in charge of the work.
Other parties can only work in the designated area with permission from the authorized party.

20617 Entry in the Log Book

Entries of permit-to-work issuances, equipment status, and timing for all equipment must be recorded.
Log Book should record all specifics from the phone call (private number) between the personnel and the TPC.
Maintenance works and changes are recorded in the log book immediately as per regulations.

20618 Work Inside Loco Shed or Car Shed

Contact the Traction Foreman, Assistant Foreman, or Chargerman (RS) for work permits in such cases
No need to report to TPC

20619 Local Blocks

Local electrical blocks (not affecting main lines) require manual isolator control.
The Station master and involved parties are responsible.
TPC must be notified beforehand and afterwards.

20620 Protective Measures for Power Blocks

Personnel working with energized equipment need a thorough understanding of safety precautions during power blocks.
Protective measures are described in detail for working on sections with live electrical equipment.

20621 Longitudinal Protection

Overhead lines are sectioned and insulated to prevent short circuits during power blocks.
Sufficient distance between sections ensures safety of work-force.

20622 Transverse or Cross Protection

Section insulators on crossovers prevent electrical connection between different sections.
Section insulators prevent live OHE lines from connecting to dead section.

20623 Procedure for Arranging Longitudinal and Transverse Protection

The Section Controller coordinates safety with Station Masters
Working rules ensure protections are adequate before power block approval

20624 Station Working Rules for Longitudinal and Transverse Protection

Clear station working rules should accompany safety procedures for power blocks.
All personnel must ensure familiarity with procedures to ensure safe operation for power blocks.

20625 Protection of Dead Section

Signaling systems and manual equipment lockouts are key in protecting dead sections
The signaling devices are used to prevent any accidental contact with live equipment.
Procedures and precautions are detailed with emphasis on safety procedures and equipment control.

20626 Shunting Movement Towards Dead Section

Shunting movements for non-electric trains are permitted in dead zones under specific conditions (no electric train in the zone, etc)
Personal inspection from Station Master to validate these conditions must be completed first.

20627 Movement of Other than Electric Trains

Safe passage for non-electric rolling stock in sections with energized equipment, requires specific conditions
Checking for presence of live OHE equipment, and verifying their proper isolation, is mandatory.
Safety precautions are stressed to avoid accidents.

20628 Standard Forms for Power Block Messages

Form ETR 1, ETR 2, ETR 3, ETR 4 are specific forms for power block messaging.
Formal documentation is necessary for all power block communications to ensure clear communication
Information on all forms must be correct and clear.

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Description

This quiz covers the operation and maintenance protocols of isolator switches utilized in overhead line electrification. It discusses the importance of ensuring safety when handling isolator switches, including the necessity of locking handles and the conditions for opening these switches. Additionally, it covers procedures for isolators in yards and maintenance blocks.