1Type VFI, Fluid-insulated SwitchgearINSTALLATION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS MN285006EN March 2018Product informationIntroductionService Information MN285006EN provides installationinstructions, operation information, maintenanceprocedures, and limited testing information for Eaton’sCooper Power™ series Type VFI fluid-insulated undergrounddistribution switchgear.For in-depth testing information, refer to Service InformationMN285001EN VFI Tester Operating Instructions for completeinformation regarding operation of the VFI tester andin-depth VFI underground distribution switchgear testingprocedures.Read this manual firstRead and understand the contents of this manual and followall locally approved procedures and safety practices beforeinstalling or operating this equipment.Additional informationThese instructions do not claim to cover all details orvariations in the equipment, procedures, or processesdescribed, nor to provide directions for meeting everypossible contingency during installation, operation, ormaintenance. When additional information is desired tosatisfy a problem not covered sufficiently for the user’spurpose, please contact your Eaton representative.Acceptance and initial inspectionVFI switchgear is completely assembled, tested, andinspected at the factory. The switchgear is filled to thecorrect level with insulating fluid. It is in good conditionwhen accepted by the freight carrier for shipment.1. Upon receipt, inspect the unit thoroughly for damageand loss of parts or fluid incurred during shipment.If damage or loss is discovered, file a claim with thecarrier immediately.2. Check for fluid leakage and tighten any bolts that mayhave loosened during shipment.Handling and storageThe switchgear should remain on its shipping pallet until it isinstalled. When handling the switchgear, always use a forktruck that has adequate lifting capacity and forks that extendthe entire length of the pallet. Improper handling can causedamage to the switchgear.If the switchgear is to be stored for any appreciable timebefore installation, provide a clean, dry storage area.Be careful during handling and storage to minimize thepossibility of mechanical damage. Do not stack othermaterial on the switchgear.StandardsType VFI underground distribution switchgear products aredesigned and tested in accordance with IEEE Std C37.60™-2003, IEEE Std C37.74™-2003, IEEE Std C.57.12.28™-2005,and IEEE Std 386™-2006 standards.Quality standardsISO 9001 Certified Quality Management SystemProduct descriptionType VFI switchgear provides fault interruption andconvenient load switching for 15, 25, and 35 kV undergroundsystems. VFI switchgear is designed for outdoor mountingon a concrete pad. Power is fed to and from the switchgearfrom underground through openings in the pad.Deadfront construction minimizes the high-voltage safetyhazards for both the operator and the general public.Type VFI switchgear employs mineral oil, Envirotemp™FR3™, or Envirotemp™ E200™ as the insulating medium toprovide a compact, low profile installation.NOTICEThe use of Envirotemp™ FR3™ dielectric fluid is limitedto a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C (32 °F)Failure to comply can result in equipment misoperationT374 0VFI switchgear can also be specified with a variety ofcontrol options to meet specific distribution systemprotection requirementsVFI switchgear operationType VFI switchgear utilizes vacuum interrupters to providefault current interruption and load make/break switchingcapabilities. Hotstick-operable operating handles are locatedon the front plate of the unit. Vacuum fault interrupteroperating mechanisms can be configured for either single-or ganged three-phase operation.Current sensing transformers, located inside the switchgeartank, provide line current information to the control. Whenline current exceeds the minimum trip setting, the controlinitiates a signal which causes the vacuum fault interrupterto interrupt the circuit. Interruption may be single- or three-phase, depending upon the configuration of the control andvacuum fault interrupter.