Electrical training centre equipped with HV test

The courses are being delivered in a new purpose built facility that incorporates an 11KV control and distribution centre. As part of the new investment at Eastwood Park, neon and digital high voltage indicators and digital phasing equipment manufactured by electrical test specialist Seaward have been installed.

The test equipment will be used on a variety of high voltage courses to help delegates understand the regulations relating to safe HV working practices and to enable them to carry out practical work that will include simulated fault finding, making systems safe, proving live and carrying out power supply phase comparisons.

The Seaward KD1E high voltage indicators include both neon and digital systems to confirm the presence of voltage on earthed neutral electrical circuits up to 11.5KV. The test rods conform to industry recommended creepage and safety standards, comprising high grade PVC tubing and encapsulated resistor chains.

The equipment includes neon indicator units for proving live applications and digital readout units that provide a direct reading of voltage measurements.

The KD1E indicators at Eastwood Park will be used alongside Seaward PR11 high voltage phasing rods that enable comparisons to be made at the point of paralleling two circuits. The phasing rods, which are used without the interposition of voltage transformers or secondary wiring circuits, incorporate a neon indicator and are suitable for all types of switchgear.

The training courses at Eastwood Park’s HV centre are being built around the needs of Authorised Persons for HV distribution equipment, including NHS maintenance staff, MOD estates technicians, MOD and those in the commercial sector, such as large business parks, who operate private power networks.

Kevin Furey, senior engineering and training consultant is heading the new centre. He said: “The new HV training facility will enable us to replicate a variety of faults and operational conditions, creating a safe and reassuring environment in which engineers can learn and gain the necessary accreditation to meet Competent and Authorised Person roles.

“The investment in the new HV switchgear and power control facility is complemented by the use of specialist test equipment from Seaward. This equipment is widely used in the electrical utility and distribution sector, enabling our trainees to gain a thorough practical understanding of HV systems and procedures.”

Eastwood Park provides a wide range of technical training courses that have been developed in partnership with leading industry bodies and associations, including the Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Estate Management (IHEEM).