ansi relay numbers pdf
ansi relay numbers pdf
ANSI relay numbers, defined by ANSI/IEEE C37.2, standardize relay identification within power systems, aiding engineers and technicians in understanding device functions.
What are ANSI Relay Numbers?
ANSI relay numbers represent a standardized system for identifying the function of protective relays and devices used in electrical power systems and industrial automation. These numbers, meticulously outlined in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standard, aren’t arbitrary; they provide a common language for engineers, technicians, and operators. This standardization is absolutely crucial for clear communication, efficient troubleshooting, and accurate system documentation.
Essentially, each number corresponds to a specific protective function, such as overcurrent, undervoltage, or ground fault detection. For instance, a relay designated with ‘51’ always indicates an overcurrent function, regardless of the manufacturer or specific application. Understanding these numbers allows professionals to quickly grasp the purpose of a device within a complex electrical system, enhancing safety and reliability. Accessing a pdf detailing these numbers is vital for professionals.
The Importance of Standardization (ANSI/IEEE C37.2)
Standardization through ANSI/IEEE C37.2 is paramount in electrical power systems. Without a unified system, interpreting protection schemes would be chaotic and prone to errors. This standard ensures that a ‘50’ relay, for example, consistently signifies a ‘Failure to Energize’ function across different manufacturers and installations. This consistency dramatically reduces the risk of misapplication and enhances system safety.
The C37.2 standard facilitates seamless collaboration between engineers and technicians, regardless of their background or location. It simplifies maintenance, troubleshooting, and system upgrades. A readily available pdf version of the standard is an invaluable resource for anyone working with protective relays. Furthermore, standardization promotes interoperability, allowing components from various vendors to work together harmoniously, optimizing system performance and reducing costs.

Core Concepts of ANSI/IEEE C37.2
ANSI/IEEE C37.2 defines device numbers for protective relays, crucial for power system design and operation; a pdf copy details these functions.
Understanding the C37.2 Standard
The ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standard is the cornerstone of relay numbering in North American power systems, providing a consistent framework for identifying protective devices. A readily available pdf version of this standard details the specific functions assigned to each device number, ranging from overcurrent and voltage protection to more specialized applications like differential and ground fault detection.
This standardization isn’t merely a matter of convenience; it’s vital for clear communication between engineers, technicians, and manufacturers. When referencing a “Number 51” relay, everyone understands it signifies an overcurrent function, regardless of the specific manufacturer or application. The standard also allows for modifiers – letters appended to the number – to further refine the application, offering a granular level of detail. Accessing the pdf document allows for a comprehensive understanding of these nuances, ensuring accurate system design, testing, and maintenance.
Purpose of Device Numbers in Power Systems
ANSI/IEEE device numbers serve a critical role in electrical power systems, protecting equipment from damage during unwanted events like faults. These numbers, detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf standard, aren’t just labels; they’re a concise language for describing protective device functions. Utilizing these standardized numbers streamlines system design, enabling engineers to quickly grasp the protective scheme without needing extensive documentation.
Furthermore, device numbers facilitate efficient troubleshooting and maintenance. Technicians can rapidly identify relay functions, aiding in fault diagnosis and repair. The pdf standard ensures consistency across different manufacturers and installations, promoting interoperability and reducing errors. This standardized approach is essential for maintaining the reliability and safety of complex power grids and industrial automation systems, offering a universal understanding of protection schemes.

Commonly Used ANSI Relay Numbers (1-20)
ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf details numbers 1-20, covering master elements, time delays, checking relays, and crucial functions like overcurrent and voltage protection.
Number 50: Failure to Energize Relay
ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf defines Number 50 as the Failure to Energize Relay, a vital component in ensuring proper system operation; This relay monitors for the expected presence of voltage or current, initiating a trip if the anticipated energization doesn’t occur within a defined timeframe. It’s frequently used to detect situations where a circuit breaker fails to close, or a critical power source is unavailable.
The primary function is to prevent equipment damage or system instability resulting from unpowered conditions. Applications include monitoring control power supplies, verifying the operation of essential pumps or fans, and safeguarding against asynchronous operation. Proper setting and testing of a 50 relay, as detailed in the standard, are crucial for reliable performance and avoiding nuisance trips. The pdf document provides detailed guidance on application and coordination.
Number 51: Overcurrent Relay
According to the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf standard, Number 51 designates the Overcurrent Relay, a cornerstone of power system protection. This relay detects currents exceeding pre-set thresholds, initiating a trip to isolate faults and prevent damage to equipment. Overcurrent relays are fundamental for protecting transformers, feeders, and motors from short circuits and sustained overloads.
Different types exist, including definite-time, inverse-time, and instantaneous, each with unique operating characteristics detailed within the pdf. Time-current curves are essential for coordination, ensuring selective tripping and minimizing system disruption. Proper application, as outlined in the standard, requires careful consideration of fault currents, equipment ratings, and system configuration. The pdf provides comprehensive guidance on setting calculations and testing procedures for reliable overcurrent protection.
Number 52: AC Circuit Breaker
As detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 52 represents the AC Circuit Breaker, a critical component for interrupting fault currents and controlling power flow. Circuit breakers are electromechanical devices designed to automatically open a circuit when an overcurrent or fault condition is detected, safeguarding equipment and personnel. The pdf standard outlines various breaker types, including oil, air blast, vacuum, and SF6, each with distinct characteristics.
The pdf emphasizes the importance of proper breaker coordination with protective relays (like Number 51) to ensure selective tripping. Auxiliary contacts on the breaker, monitored by relaying schemes, provide status indication and interlock functionality. Understanding breaker ratings – voltage, current, and interrupting capacity – is crucial, as specified in the ANSI/IEEE document. Correct application, guided by the pdf, ensures reliable system protection and minimizes downtime.
Number 53: Trip Circuit

According to the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 53 designates the Trip Circuit, a vital element in initiating the operation of circuit breakers and other interrupting devices. This circuit carries the tripping signal from protective relays to the breaker’s tripping mechanism, ensuring a swift and reliable response to fault conditions. The pdf details the requirements for trip circuit supervision, including undervoltage and open-circuit detection, to prevent failures.
The pdf standard stresses the need for redundant trip circuits and diverse wiring paths to enhance reliability. Trip circuits often incorporate flags or indicators to confirm successful tripping. Proper design, as outlined in the ANSI/IEEE document, minimizes the risk of spurious trips or failure to trip. Understanding the trip circuit’s components – including trip coils, relays, and wiring – is essential for effective system protection, as detailed within the pdf.

Number 55: Permissive Auto-Reclose
As detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 55 represents the Permissive Auto-Reclose relay. This function enables automatic reclosure of circuit breakers after a temporary fault, improving system reliability and minimizing service interruptions. The pdf specifies conditions under which auto-reclosure is permitted, typically after detecting a transient fault like lightning strikes or momentary line contact.
The pdf emphasizes the importance of blocking auto-reclosure for sustained faults, preventing repeated breaker operations and potential damage. The permissive aspect means reclosure is allowed only if certain conditions are met, such as successful fault clearing. Settings within the Number 55 relay, as described in the ANSI/IEEE standard, control the timing of reclosure attempts. Proper configuration, guided by the pdf, balances speed of restoration with system stability and protection.
Number 59: Overvoltage Relay
According to the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 59 designates the Overvoltage Relay. This crucial protective device monitors system voltage levels and operates to isolate equipment when voltages exceed predetermined thresholds. The pdf details how these relays safeguard transformers, generators, and other sensitive components from damage caused by surges, lightning strikes, or improper voltage regulation.

The pdf clarifies that Number 59 relays can be instantaneous or time-delayed, offering flexibility in protection schemes. Instantaneous operation is vital for severe overvoltage events, while time-delay allows for temporary voltage spikes. Settings, as outlined in the ANSI/IEEE standard and explained in the pdf, are critical for coordinating with other protective devices. Proper application, guided by the pdf, ensures reliable system protection and prevents unnecessary tripping during normal voltage fluctuations.
Number 62: Running/Starting Circuit Relay
As detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 62 represents the Running/Starting Circuit Relay. This relay, explained within the pdf, is primarily used with motors, ensuring proper sequencing during starting and running operations. It monitors auxiliary contacts and circuit conditions to verify the motor is successfully starting before allowing full voltage application, preventing damage from stalled rotors.
The pdf clarifies that Number 62 relays can also detect abnormal running conditions, such as loss of phase or overload, triggering alarms or trips. The standard, accessible as a pdf, outlines various applications, including monitoring pump and fan motor circuits. Correct configuration, guided by the ANSI/IEEE standard and the pdf’s examples, is essential for reliable motor protection. The pdf emphasizes the importance of coordinating Number 62 with other motor protection relays.
Number 67: Generator Differential Protection
According to the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 67 signifies Generator Differential Protection. This crucial relay, detailed within the pdf, safeguards generators against internal faults like winding short circuits. The pdf explains it operates on the principle of Kirchhoff’s Current Law, comparing currents entering and leaving the generator; a difference indicates an internal fault.
The pdf highlights that Number 67 protection requires careful setting and coordination, considering generator connections (wye or delta) and CT ratios. The standard, available as a pdf, emphasizes the importance of percentage differential relays to account for CT errors. The ANSI/IEEE standard, outlined in the pdf, also covers harmonic restraint to prevent false tripping due to magnetizing inrush currents. Proper application, as described in the pdf, is vital for reliable generator protection and preventing extensive damage.
Number 68: Ground Fault Protection
As detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 68 represents Ground Fault Protection. This relay, thoroughly explained within the pdf document, detects unintentional paths to ground within an electrical system. The pdf clarifies its primary function is to minimize shock hazards and prevent equipment damage caused by ground faults. The standard, accessible as a pdf, outlines various methods for ground fault detection, including zero-sequence current and residual current monitoring.
The pdf emphasizes that Number 68 relays are commonly used in medium and high-voltage systems. The ANSI/IEEE standard, found in the pdf, specifies sensitivity settings to differentiate between normal operating currents and actual ground faults. The pdf also details considerations for coordinating Number 68 protection with other protective devices. Proper application, as described in the pdf, ensures rapid fault clearing and enhances system safety and reliability.
Number 74: X-Over Current Relay
According to the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, Number 74 designates the X-Over Current Relay. This relay, comprehensively detailed within the pdf document, is designed to detect current flow in an unintended direction, often associated with parallel power systems or transfer schemes. The pdf clarifies its role in preventing circulating currents and ensuring proper power flow. The standard, available as a pdf, outlines various application scenarios for this relay, including bus tie schemes and reverse power flow detection.
The pdf emphasizes that Number 74 relays are crucial for maintaining system stability and preventing equipment overload. The ANSI/IEEE standard, found in the pdf, specifies settings to accurately detect and respond to reverse current conditions. The pdf also details coordination requirements with other protective devices. Correct implementation, as described in the pdf, enhances system reliability and protects against potentially damaging circulating currents.

Relay Number Extensions and Modifiers
ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf details how letters appended to relay numbers specify applications, while modifiers like A, B, and C refine functionality.
Using Letters to Specify Applications
The ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf standard expands upon basic relay numbers by utilizing letters to denote specific applications of a device. This refinement allows for a more granular understanding of a relay’s intended function within a complex power system. For instance, a ‘A’ modifier often indicates a first or normal condition, while ‘B’ might signify a second or backup function.
These letter designations aren’t arbitrary; they provide crucial context for interpreting protection schemes. Understanding these modifiers is essential for technicians and engineers interpreting single-line diagrams and relay settings. The standard meticulously outlines these applications, ensuring consistency across different manufacturers and installations. This detailed approach minimizes ambiguity and promotes safer, more reliable operation of electrical power systems. Properly interpreting these lettered extensions, as detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, is paramount for effective system protection.
Common Modifiers (e.g., A, B, C)
As detailed within the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf standard, several common modifiers—like A, B, and C—are frequently appended to ANSI relay numbers to clarify their specific application. Modifier ‘A’ typically denotes a normal or primary function, representing the initial response to a system event. ‘B’, conversely, often signifies a backup or secondary function, providing redundancy in case the primary protection fails.
The ‘C’ modifier frequently indicates a condition related to the relay itself, such as a check or interlocking function. These modifiers aren’t universally rigid; their precise meaning can vary depending on the specific application and manufacturer’s implementation, as outlined in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf. Therefore, consulting the relevant documentation is crucial. Mastering these modifiers is vital for accurately interpreting protection schemes and ensuring effective system reliability and safety.

Applications of ANSI Relay Numbers
ANSI relay numbers, per the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, are essential in electrical protection systems and industrial automation for identifying devices effectively.
Electrical Protection Systems
ANSI relay numbers, comprehensively detailed in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf document, are fundamentally crucial for designing robust electrical protection systems. These standardized numbers enable clear communication and understanding amongst protection engineers when specifying relay functions within substations and power plants. Utilizing these numbers ensures consistent interpretation of protective device roles, like overcurrent (51) or differential (87) relays, during fault conditions.
The C37.2 standard facilitates the coordination of protection schemes, allowing for selective tripping and minimizing system disturbances. Properly applied ANSI device numbers contribute to improved system reliability, preventing widespread outages and safeguarding expensive equipment. The pdf provides detailed guidance on applying these numbers to various protection scenarios, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to industry best practices. This standardization is vital for maintaining a safe and dependable power grid.
Industrial Automation and Control
Beyond power systems, ANSI relay numbers, as outlined in the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 pdf, play a significant role in industrial automation and control applications. They provide a standardized method for identifying relay functions within Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Distributed Control Systems (DCSs), ensuring clarity in complex automated processes. Utilizing these numbers simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance, as technicians can quickly identify the purpose of each relay based on its assigned number.
The C37.2 standard aids in designing safety interlock systems, emergency shutdown sequences, and process monitoring circuits. For example, a Number 50 relay (Failure to Energize) can be used to detect loss of power to critical components. The pdf document details how to apply these numbers to various industrial control scenarios, promoting consistent design and operation. This standardization enhances system reliability and reduces the risk of operational errors.

Resources for ANSI Relay Number Information (PDFs & Standards)
ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standards, often available as a pdf, provide comprehensive details on relay numbers; online databases also offer accessible lists.
Accessing the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 Standard
Obtaining the ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standard, frequently found as a pdf document, typically involves purchasing it directly from the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) or ANSI (American National Standards Institute) websites. These organizations are the official publishers and maintainers of the standard, ensuring you receive the most current and accurate version.
However, accessing the full standard can be costly. Some universities and corporate libraries subscribe to the standard, providing access to their students and employees. Additionally, older revisions of the standard might be available through various technical document repositories, though verifying their validity is crucial. Be cautious of unofficial sources offering the pdf, as they may contain outdated or inaccurate information. Always prioritize obtaining the standard from the official publishers to guarantee compliance and reliability in your electrical protection system designs and implementations.
Online Databases and Lists of Relay Numbers
Numerous online resources offer lists and databases of ANSI relay numbers, often available as downloadable pdfs or interactive web pages. These resources can be incredibly helpful for quick reference and understanding common relay applications. However, it’s vital to remember that these are often summaries or interpretations of the full ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standard, and may not encompass all modifiers or specific applications.
Websites dedicated to electrical engineering, power system protection, and industrial automation frequently host such lists. Searching for “ANSI relay number list pdf” will yield many results. Always cross-reference information from multiple sources and, when in doubt, consult the official ANSI/IEEE C37.2 standard for definitive guidance. Relying solely on unofficial lists can lead to misinterpretations and potentially compromise system safety and reliability.
