Hickory, NC - April 9, 2020 -
Utility Solutions, Inc. (USI) has introduced a new grounding simulator specifically designed for utilities and lineworkers. Following their successful Load-Trainer™ II Transformer Simulator product, USI has developed a new desktop trainer called the Grounds-Trainer™ Personal Protective Grounding Simulator that combines hands-on jumper connections with a powerful computer simulation.
Personal protective grounding is a highly complex and often misunderstood subject. Textbooks have difficulty illustrating the effects of a fault on a distribution system. The Grounds-Trainer
™
simulates an overhead distribution system with several variables. Lineworkers can learn the principles of grounding, proper work methods, and simulate the effects of a fault at a work site.
"
The Grounds-Trainer™ goes beyond the textbook and illustrates the importance of proper Grounding techniques
", says Jon Spencer, Engineer for Utility Solutions, Inc. "
A lineman can plug jumpers on the board and then see what happens during a fault
". How the jumpers are arranged, their size and condition are all important factors to a lineman's safety. "
Electricity takes all paths
," Jon continues. "
The simulation makes it possible to see those paths and the fault currents, all in real-time.
"
Although several industry standards exist for grounding, there is still confusion and misunderstanding as to what actually occurs during a fault. The variables that affect a work site are difficult to predict and measure. The Grounds-Trainer™ includes options for many variables such as system voltages and fault currents, power pole types and distances from a substation, and even the length and type of jumpers used at the worksite.
Robert Odear, software engineer on the Grounds-Trainer™ says, "
We needed this trainer to be aware of every jumper plugged into the board. This was a challenge but it gave us the ability to monitor the order of operation
". Grounding jumpers must be applied in a specific order so lineworkers are as safe as possible. "
There are not many opportunities for a lineman to practice grounding during a fault
".
Gene Wood, President of USI remarked, "
This new product can save lives. The powerful simulation software in the Grounds-Trainer™ processes multiple variables to illustrate the effects of a fault. I am so proud of our work on this new product and encourage our industry to use the Grounds-Trainer™ to educate lineworkers
."
Each jumper connection and variable is displayed on a 7" touchscreen. The unit includes an HDMI connection allowing a projector or big screen to display to an entire classroom. USI is targeting lineman schools, utilities, and contractors. Live online demonstrations are available now.
