Mechanical relays, when properly maintained, can last for decades, while microprocessor relays provide advanced features but may age over time, especially in their electronic components like electrolytic capacitors. They are often easy to maintain and repair because replacement parts are still widely available. For this reason, it's not uncommon to find mechanical relays in substations that have been in service well beyond their. to protect both human lives and equipment as well as ensure uninterrupted power supply. Although failure of a protective relay system may have severe local or regional impacts, most protective relay systems are not required to operate to prove they are in working order. Ensuring that. This utility standard establishes the requirements for testing and maintaining protection systems, automatic reclosing, and sudden pressure relaying.
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