Engineering Standard

SAES-J-902 17 May 2015

Electrical Systems for Instrumentation
Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents

1 Scope............................................................. 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations................................. 2
3 References..................................................... 2
4 Definitions....................................................... 4
5 General........................................................... 5
6 Conduit and Cable Sealing............................. 5
7 Enclosures...................................................... 6
8 Conduit, Conduit Fittings and Supports.......... 7
9 Cable Trays.................................................... 8
10 Connections at Field Instruments
and Junction Boxes............................... 10
11 Power Supply............................................... 11
12 Signal/Control Wiring.................................... 14
13 Routing......................................................... 17
14 Signal Segregation, Separation
and Noise Reduction............................ 21
15 Termination.................................................. 25
16 Identification................................................. 27
17 Grounding..................................................... 29

Previous Issue: 20 July 2014 Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 32
Primary contact: Balhareth, Hamad S (balhhs0e) on +966-13-8801893

Copyright©Saudi Aramco 2015. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

1 Scope

This Standard establishes the design criteria for the installation of power and wiring
systems for electrical instrumentation.

2 Conflicts and Deviations

2.1 Any conflicts between this Standard and other applicable Saudi Aramco
Engineering Standards (SAESs), Materials System Specifications (SAMSSs)
Standard Drawings (SASDs), or industry standards, codes, and forms shall be
resolved in writing by the Company or Buyer Representative through the
Manager, Process & Control Systems Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.

2.2 Direct all requests to deviate from this standard in writing to the Company or
Buyer Representative, who shall follow internal company procedure SAEP-302
and forward such requests to the Manager, Process & Control Systems
Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.

3 References

The selection of material and equipment, and the design, construction, maintenance, and
repair of equipment and facilities covered by this standard shall comply with the latest
edition of the references listed below, unless otherwise noted.

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

SAEP-302

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-B-006 Fireproofing for Plants
SAES-J-903 Intrinsically Safe Systems
SAES-J-904 FOUNDATION fieldbus (FF) Systems
SAES-P-100 Basic Power System Design Criteria
SAES-P-103 UPS and DC Systems
SAES-P-104 Wiring Methods and Materials
SAES-P-111 Grounding
SAES-T-151 D.C. Power System

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

SAES-Z-020 Design and Installation of Fiber Optic Cable

Systems for Process Control Networks

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

17-SAMSS-516 Uninterruptible Power Supply System
23-SAMSS-010 Distributed Control Systems
34-SAMSS-820 Instrument Control Cabinets Indoor
34-SAMSS-913 Instrument and Thermocouple Cable

Saudi Aramco Library Drawings

DC-950150-001 Recommended Grounding Scheme for Process

Automation System

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American National Standards Institute

ANSI/ISA TR12.21.01 Use of Fiber Optic Systems in Class I Hazardous
(Classified) Locations

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

International Electrotechnical Commission

IEC 60529 Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NEMA ICS 6 Enclosures for Industrial Controls and Systems
NEMA 250 Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
(1000 Volts Maximum)
NEMA VE 1 Metal Cable Tray Systems
NEMA VE 2 Cable Tray Installation Guidelines

National Fire Protection Association

NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)
NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.

UL 94

The International Society of Automation (ISA)

MC96.1 Temperature Measurement Thermocouples

4 Definitions

The following list of definitions shall apply to this Standard:

Class 1 Circuit: A circuit complying with National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 725,
Part II.

Class 2 Circuit: A circuit that complies with National Electrical Code (NEC)
Article 725, Part III.

Class 3 Circuit: A circuit that complies with National Electrical Code (NEC)
Article 725, Part III.

Data Link: Any information channel used for connecting data processing equipment to
any input, output, display device, or other data processing equipment.

Drain Wire: In a cable, the non-insulated wire in intimate contact with a shield to
provide for termination of the shield to a ground point.

Home-Run Cable: A cable, typically multi-pair/triad, extending between the field

junction boxes and marshalling cabinets in control or PIB buildings.

Severe Corrosive Environments: For the purposes of this standard only, severe
corrosive environments include:
a. Outdoor offshore locations
b. Outdoor onshore locations within one kilometer from the shoreline of the Arabian
Gulf
c. Outdoor onshore locations within three kilometers from the shoreline of the Red Sea.
d. All of the Ras Tanura Refinery and Terminal
e. Locations where chlorine or other corrosive chemicals are being handled
(e.g., sulfur plants, waste water treatment, water treatment, R.O. facilities).

If any part of a specific plant falls within these limits, the entire plant area shall be
treated as severe corrosive environment.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

5 General

5.1 Design and installation of power and wiring systems for instrumentation shall be
in accordance with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (NEC), unless otherwise
supplemented by this standard.

5.2 Foundation Fieldbus wiring systems shall be installed in compliance with

SAES-J-904 FOUNDATION fieldbus (FF) Systems.

5.3 Electrical and electronic equipment in hazardous areas shall meet

listing/certification requirements specified in SAES-P-100 and the NEC.

5.4 Intrinsically Safe Systems

5.4.1 Intrinsically safe systems shall only be used in Zone 0 hazardous areas
or when the vendor's standard product offering is supplied as
intrinsically safe. Intrinsically safe systems shall be certified per
Paragraph 5.3.

5.4.2 Intrinsically safe systems shall be installed in compliance with

SAES-J-903, Intrinsically Safe Systems.

5.5 Fireproofing of cables in fire hazardous areas shall be in accordance with

SAES-B-006.

5.6 Fire Alarm systems shall be installed in accordance with NEC Article 760 and
NFPA 72.

5.7 Cable Ties

5.7.1 All cable ties used in the field shall be 'nylon coated 316 stainless steel.

5.7.2 All cable ties used inside of enclosures and buildings (i.e., field junction
boxes, marshalling cabinets, control rooms, and PIBS) shall be weather
resistant nylon cable ties with a stainless steel barb. The cable tie shall
have a maximum continuous use temperature rating of 85ºC or higher.
Commentary Note:

Cable tray with covers shall not to be considered as 'inside of an

enclosure'; therefore, nylon coated 316 stainless steel ties shall be used.

6 Conduit and Cable Sealing

6.1 Conduit and cable sealing shall be installed in accordance with NEC Article
505, except as specified in Paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

6.2 Armored Cable Sealing

) cable glands using a compound barrier seal shall

be used on all instruments and enclosures located in hazardous areas requiring
sealing per the NEC. Where sealing is not required by the NEC, Certified
Flameproof (Type d ) cable glands shall be used on all instruments and
enclosures including those located in non-hazardous areas. As a minimum, all
cable glands shall be made of 316 stainless steel.

6.3 Conduit Sealing for Individually Shielded Twisted Pair/Triad Cable

When individually shielded twisted pair cable passes through a conduit seal, it
shall be treated as a single conductor and shall be sealed with the outer jacket
intact. In addition, the cable end within the enclosure shall be sealed by an
approved means.

7 Enclosures

7.1 Enclosures for instruments in outdoor plant areas shall be NEMA Type 4 in
accordance with NEMA ICS 6 and NEMA 250 or IEC 60529 Type IP 65.
Enclosures in severe corrosive environments shall be NEMA Type 4X or
IEC 60529 Type IP 66. As a minimum, the instrument enclosures shall be made
of 316 SS or cast copper-free aluminum (0.4% max copper) and shall be suitable
for the areas where they are installed. Where practically possible, the electrical
connection entry should be ½ inch NPT.

7.2 The field junction box, in a Class I, Zone 2 location and in non-hazardous areas,
shall be a single door IEC 60529 Type IP 66 box. The box
construction shall meet the following requirements:

7.2.1 Type 316 stainless steel body, door, fittings, breathers, plugs, and other
hardware.

7.2.2 Continuously welded seams, finished smooth.

7.2.3 316 Stainless steel hinge.

7.2.4 316 Stainless steel captive clamps.

Exception:

316 Stainless steel captive screws may be used in lieu of captive

clamps provided that the screws do not penetrate the door gasket.
Keylocks and padlocks are not acceptable.

7.2.5 Data/Print pocket on inside of door.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

7.2.6 External mounting brackets.

7.2.7 Collar studs for mounting inside panel.

7.2.8 Ground stud for terminating A/C safety ground wire.

7.2.9 Removable door.

7.2.10 316 Stainless steel back panels.

7.3 All field junction boxes shall be mounted vertically, i.e., the door shall open
from left-to-right or from right-to-left.

7.4 Instrument enclosures and junction boxes having an internal volume exceeding
2,000 cm³ shall be provided with Type 300 Series stainless steel breather and
drain fittings, or a combination breather and drain fitting.

7.5 All instrument enclosures and junction boxes shall be third party certified.
Self certification is not acceptable.

8 Conduit, Conduit Fittings and Supports

8.1 Conduit, conduit installation, fittings, and supports shall comply with SAES-P-104
Wiring Methods and Materials.
Exception:

Where conduit sealing is required, Paragraphs 6.1 and 6.3 of this standard shall
be followed.

8.2 In outdoor installations, conduit bodies and fittings shall have threaded cover
openings.
Exception:

For non-circular conduit fittings (such as L-shaped bodies (LB), wire pulling
fittings, etc.), screwed or bolted covers are acceptable. Snaptight covers or
covers with internal holding levers are not acceptable.

8.3 A conduit outlet box (e.g., GUAC or equivalent) shall be installed within 460 mm
(18 inches) of the field device. The cable to the instrument shall be looped one or
more times within this fitting; the sizing of the conduit outlet box shall take into
account the bending radius of the cable.
Commentary Note:

The new transmitters and digital valve controllers have very small connection
heads compared to previous models. Therefore, a conduit outlet box is being
mandated within 18 of the device to allow for a spare loop of cable. This can

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

potentially prevent maintenance from having to re-pull cable if the cable end has
been damaged.

8.4 Flexible conduit shall be used at the instrument end of the conduit to provide
isolation from vibration, protection against thermal expansion of the rigid
conduit systems and for ease of maintenance.

8.4.1 For Class I, Zone 1 hazardous locations, flexible fittings listed for the
area shall be used.

8.4.2 For Class I, Zone 2 locations and unclassified areas, the flexible
conduit shall be listed as Liquidtight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC).
The LFMC shall have a sunlight resistant cover which resists oil and
80ºC.

8.4.3 Where practically possible, the length of the flexible conduits should not
exceed
Exception:

Flexible metal conduits installed on rotating equipment (i.e., temperature,

vibration, etc.) may be 1830 mm ( long. The bends (curves)
shall not exceed the equivalent of four quarter bends (360 degrees total)
throughout the LFMC entire length. In addition, the radius of the curves
shall be per NFPA 70, Chapter 9.

8.5 Metallic conduit shall be grounded as required in SAES-P-111.

9 Cable Trays

9.1 Cable tray specification shall be per NEMA VE 1. The tray installation shall be
per this standard, NEMA VE 2 and SAES-P-104.

9.2 Homerun cable trays shall be of the ladder type, i.e., two longitudinal side rails
connected by individual transverse members (rungs). The distance between
consecutive rungs shall not exceed 229 mm (9 inches). Ladder cable tray material
shall be copper-free aluminum (aluminum with a maximum of 0.4% copper).
These requirements are also applicable to cable trays supporting multipair/triad
instrumentation cables inside control buildings and/or substations.

9.3 The cable tray system shall be installed with the manufacturers standard fittings,
clamps, hangers, brackets, splice plates, reducer plates, blind ends, connectors,
and grounding straps.

9.4 All fasteners (i.e., nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) used to connect and assemble the
cable tray system shall be 304 SS. In severe corrosive environments, 316 SS
fasteners shall be used.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

9.5 Cable Trays shall be grounded as required in SAES-P-111.

9.6 In new grass root projects, cable trays extending between the process area and
the control room or process interface building, or trays installed beneath raised
computer floors, in control rooms or PIB shall be sized for a minimum of 20%
spare space for future expansions. This spare capacity is in addition to the
installed 20% spare cabling. The overall cable fill with all spare requirements
shall not exceed tray fill requirement stipulated in Paragraph 9.7.

9.7 Cable tray fill shall comply with NEC Article 392.

9.8 Cable tray supporting armored cables extending between field instruments and
junction boxes shall be ventilated bottom, channel cable tray. The channel cable
tray shall be designed, manufactured, and marked in accordance with NEMA VE 1.
The working load of the cable tray shall consist of the weight of the cables, plus a
concentrated static load of 45 kg at the center of the span. The static load can be
converted to an equivalent uniform load using the formula in NEMA VE 1.
The overall working weight shall not exceed the rated load capacity of the cable
tray as defined in NEMA VE 1. In addition to the requirements in Paragraphs 9.1
and 9.5, the channel cable tray system shall meet the following:

9.8.1 The channel cable tray material shall be copper-free aluminum

(aluminum with a maximum of 0.4% copper).

9.8.2 Channel cable tray width shall be 76, 102, or 152 mm ( 3, 4, or 6 inches)
with a minimum loading depth of 1-¼ inch).

9.8.3 The channel cable tray system shall be installed with the manufacturers
standard fittings, clamps, hangers, brackets, splice plates, reducer
plates, blind ends, connectors, and grounding straps.

9.8.4 The channel cable tray system shall be installed with flanged covers.

9.8.5 The ventilated strait sections shall have slots (approximately 3/16 x ½ )
to facilitate the use of cable ties to secure the cable(s). The slots shall
repeat every 305 457 mm ( 12-18 inches).

9.8.6 The ventilated strait sections shall have splice holes, repeating every
12-18 inches to simplify field modifications.

9.8.7 All fasteners (i.e., nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) used to connect and
assemble the channel cable tray system shall be 304 SS. In severe
corrosive environments, 316 SS fasteners shall be used.

9.8.8 The channel cable tray system shall be free from burrs or other sharp
projections that could cause damage to the cable jacket during installation.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

10 Connections at Field Instruments and Junction Boxes

10.1 Connections at Field Instruments

10.1.1 All connections at the field instrument shall be made on screw type
terminal blocks. Wire nuts and spring type terminals shall not be used.
Instruments with integral terminal blocks shall be connected directly to
the field cable.

10.1.2 If the instrument is fitted with factory sealed fly leads then they shall
be connected to a screw type terminal block installed in a GUA conduit
fitting. A typical installation arrangement is shown in Library Drawing
DC-950043-001, Electrical Connections for Field Mounted
Instruments. For armored cable installation, the armored cables shall
be terminated at both ends using cable glands per Paragraph 6.2. The
support and routing of the armored cable to the junction box shall be
per Paragraph 13.1.1.2.

10.1.3 The outer jacket of shielded twisted single pair/triad cables shall be left
intact up to the point of termination. Drain wires and mylar shields on
shielded cables shall be cut and insulated with heat shrink sleeve at the
field instrument unless otherwise specified by the instrument
manufacturer. For armored cables, the outer jacket is the jacket
covering the pair or triad; not the jacket covering the armor.

10.2 Connections at Field Junction Boxes

10.2.1 All instrument wiring shall be routed to field junction boxes. Conduit and
cable entries to field junction boxes shall be through the bottom.
Exception:

Conduit top entry into a junction box is allowable provided that a drain
seal is installed on the conduit within 457 mm (18 inches) of the
junction box.

All unused entry ports shall be fitted with approved plugs.

10.2.2 Conduit entries shall be through gasketed hubs, except in explosion-proof

installations where the connection shall be through threaded connections.
Armored cable entry to the junction boxes shall be per Paragraph 6.2.

10.2.3 In severe corrosive environments, cable glands shall be protected

against corrosion, either by a heat shrink sleeve, anti-corrosion tape or
PVC shroud. Gasket materials shall be oil resistant.

10.2.4 All connections and entries shall comply with the electrical area

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

classification.

10.2.5 Low point conduit drains shall be provided as needed.

10.2.6 Twisted, multi-pair/triad cables shall be cut to the appropriate length to

minimize looping and flexing of the cable within the junction box.

10.2.7 For twisted shielded single pair/triad cables the outer jacket shall be
left intact up to the point-of-termination, approximately 76 101 mm
(3-4 inches) from terminal blocks). The shield drain wire shall be
insulated from jacket end to terminal. Approximately, one inch of heat
shrink tubing shall be applied over the jacket end. For armored cables,
the outer jacket is the jacket covering the pair or triad; not the jacket
covering the armor.

10.2.8 For individually shielded twisted multi-pair/triad cables each pair/triad

shall be heat shrink sleeve insulated from the cable-jacket-end up to the
point-of-termination to keep the foil shielding intact and free from
accidental grounds. The shield drain wire shall be insulated from foil
end to terminal. Approximately, two inches of heat shrink tubing shall
be applied over the jacket end.

10.2.9 Terminal blocks used in junction boxes shall be per Paragraph 15.2.

10.2.10 The terminals shall be mounted on vertical DIN rails (i.e., horizontal
DIN rails are not allowed).
Commentary Note:

This paragraph is specifying vertical DIN rails in 'field junction boxes'.

It is not intended to apply to ancillary termination boxes, e.g., smart ZV
control stations, GUA fittings, etc.

10.2.11 The DIN rail shall only be mounted on the inside panel (back-pan) of
the junction box.

10.2.12 Twenty percent (20%) unused DIN rail length shall be provided in
field junction boxes.

11 Power Supply

11.1 Supply Voltages

11.1.1 Where instrument-circuit power distribution panels are used, each

panel shall be dedicated to a single voltage level. These panels shall
not provide power to non-instrumentation circuits. Distribution panels
shall be furnished with a minimum of 20% spare circuit breakers.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

Redundant power supplies feeding process automation systems,

emergency shutdown systems, metering systems, auxiliary systems or
field instrumentation shall be fed from separate distribution panels.

11.1.2 Power wiring for field instruments, two-wire analog transmission loops,
field switch contacts, etc., shall be individually fused and provided with
a means of disconnecting the power without disturbing terminated
wiring (e.g., knife-switch-type terminal blocks). Visual indication of a
blown fuse condition shall be provided.
Exceptions:

1) Wiring connected to I/O modules or to interfaces containing individual

current-limiting circuit protection does not require fuses.

2) Low level signal wiring connected directly to I/O does not require fuses.
Low level signals are defined as Millivolt, Microamp, Pulse and
Frequency Signals under 1 Volt.

Commentary Note:

Fuse application, location, and amperage ratings must be properly

sized and coordinated, taking into account the maximum expected load
at the maximum operating temperature of the indoor cabinet (50°C).

11.1.3 Equipment shall be suitable for the supply voltages shown in Table 1.

Table 1 Supply Voltages

Supply Voltage
System/Device Nominal NEC Class
Tolerance
24 VDC 21 - 28 VDC 1 or 2
Annunciator
125 VDC 113 - 137 VDC 1 or 3
Power
120 VAC, 60 ±2 Hz 110 - 126 VAC 1 or 3
Shutdown and 24 VDC 21 - 28 VDC 1 or 2
isolation system 125 VDC 113 - 137 VDC 1 or 3
power 120 VAC, 60 ±2 Hz 110 -126 VAC 1 or 3
24 VDC 21 - 28 VDC 1 or 2
Field switch
125 VDC 113 - 137 VDC 1 or 3
contacts
120 VAC, 60 ±2 Hz 110 - 126 VAC 1 or 3
Analog signal 24 VDC
21 - 28 VDC 1 or 2
(loop power) (4-20 mA)
24 VDC 21 - 28 VDC 1 or 2
Instrumentation
120 VAC, 60 ±2 Hz 110 - 126 VAC 1 or 3
power
230 VAC, 60 ±2 Hz 218 - 242 VAC 1 or 3

11.1.4 Where multiple online DC power supplies are connected to a single

power bus, diode auctioneering shall be used to ensure bump less

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

transfer in the event of a single power supply failure. Where multiple

DC power supplies are an integral part of a manufacturer's standard
product, the manufacturer's standard method of load sharing shall apply.

11.1.5 For supplies to DC instrument loads, voltage stabilization shall be

provided to maintain the output voltage within tolerable limits of the
loads served.

11.2 Backup Supply Systems

11.2.1 UPS Systems

11.2.1.1 All process instrumentation, gas chromatographs, analyzers,

emission monitoring devices, PLCs, burner management
systems, MOV control circuits and master stations,
distributed control systems, terminal management systems,
vibration monitoring systems, tank gauging systems,
metering systems, stand-alone controllers, computational
devices, annunciators, fire and gas detection/safety systems,
SCADA systems, and emergency shutdown (ESD) systems
shall be powered by UPS system.

11.2.1.2 Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems shall be

designed and installed in accordance with SAES-P-103 and
17-SAMSS-516.

11.2.1.3 UPS power and utility power shall not share the same cable
or be routed in the same conduit.

11.2.2 Redundant UPS System

UPS systems powering critical instrumentation shall consist of

redundant UPS units. Critical instrument systems are defined as systems
which, upon loss of their supply power, would cause: 1) process failure
that is not fail-safe, 2) area or plant shutdowns, 3) loss of custody
transfer metering or accounting systems, or 4) other adverse facility
operating scenarios. Such systems shall include, but not be limited to:
ESD; HIPPS; VMS; process heater safety; gas detection systems;
compressor control; boiler burner management; process monitoring and
control; and custody transfer metering systems.
Exception:

Simplex UPS systems may be used on non-critical process and service

facilities such as Bulk Plants and GOSPs with the prior approval of the
Operating Facility Manager.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

11.2.3 UPS Batteries

UPS battery requirements, such as capacity determination, installation

and charging systems, are detailed in SAES-P-103. The time during
which the battery bank shall supply power to the instrumentation
system shall depend on the application, but not be less than 30 minutes.

11.2.4 Backup Supply for Instruments with Volatile Memory

Backup power supply shall be required for instrumentation systems

containing volatile memory. For all such systems, the manufacturers'
recommendations shall be followed.

11.2.5 Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)

11.2.5.1 Remote Terminal Unit's shall be provided with battery

backup power supply systems. These may be an
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System or DC Power
System for sites supplied with AC utility power or a Solar
Photovoltaic (PV) Power System where AC utility power is
not available and as defined in SAES-P-103. These systems
shall be designed and installed in accordance with the
requirements set out in SAES-P-103. The required back up
time for these systems shall be determined in consultation
with the Proponent Department Manager and shall consider
the remoteness of the location, ease of access, and reasonable
maintenance personnel response time.

11.2.5.2 Where bulk DC power is provided to the RTU and associated

instruments loads from positively grounded DC systems
designed per SAES-T-151 these systems shall be isolated
from each other by means of a suitably sized DC/DC
converter that provides complete input to output electrical
isolation between communication and instrumentation type
loads. The instrument load DC supply system shall be
designed to be a floating system and suitable ground fault
detection shall be provided as detailed in Paragraph 17.6.

12 Signal/Control Wiring

12.1 General

12.1.1 Splices are not permitted in wiring. When wiring must be extended,
connections shall be made via terminal blocks in a junction box
installed aboveground.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

12.1.2 Twist-on wire nut connectors shall not be used for making any
electrical instrumentation terminations or wiring connections.

12.2 Cable Types

Cables used for instrumentation signals shall be selected per Table 2.

For detailed cable construction, refer to 34-SAMSS-913.

Table 2 Wire and Cable Minimum Requirements for Instrument Circuits

A. NEC Article 725 Class 1 Circuits (Notes 1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 10)

Instrument Field Instrument Field Junction Box
Circuit Example
Circuit Type To Junction Box To Marshalling Cabinet
16 AWG, 600 V, single twisted
Switches, Solenoids, pair, Type TC cable (Note-7) 18 AWG, 600 V,
120 VAC or
Relays, Limit ARMORED: twisted multi-pair
125 VDC
switches 16 AWG,600 V, single twisted cable, type TC
pair, TYPE MC or equivalent
B. NEC Article 725 Class-2&3 Circuits, Conduits & Cable Tray Installations (Notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 10)
Instrument Field Instrument Field Junction Box
Circuit Example
Circuit Type To Junction Box To Marshalling Cabinet

Solenoids, Alarms, 16 AWG, 300 V PLTC/ITC, single

twisted pair or triad cable 18 AWG, 300 V
Switches, Relays,
24 VDC or less PLTC/ITC Twisted,
limit switched, ARMORED:
Discrete signals Multi-Pairs or Triads,
Secondary Motor 16 AWG, 300 V SWA, PLTC/ITC, Overall Shield
Control twisted single pair or triad cable

Analog Signals 16 AWG, 300 V PLTC/ITC, single

4-20 mA DC, RTDs, twisted, shielded pair or triad cable
Frequency, Weigh Cells 18 AWG, 300 V
Pulse, or ARMORED: PLTC/ITC Twisted,
Transmitter Speed, Vibration, Individually Shielded
Turbine Meter, Smart 16 AWG,300 V SWA, PLTC/ITC
Digital single twisted, shielded pair or Multi-Pairs or Triads
Communication digital Transmitter
triad cable
16 AWG, 300 V PLTC/ITC, single
twisted, shielded, thermocouple 18 AWG, 300 V
extension pair cable PLTC/ITC, Twisted,
Thermocouple Individually Shielded,
Thermocouples ARMORED:
Measurement thermocouple
16 AWG, 300 V PLTC/ITC, SWA, extension multi-pair
single twisted, shielded, cable
thermocouple extension pair cable
EIA-422A Data
Follow System
Links, High Speed Follow System Manufacturer's
Data Links Manufacturer's
Communication Recommendation (Note-6)
Recommendation
networks

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

Notes on Table 2:
1. Cables installed in Class -1, Zone 1 (Class -1, Div.-1) shall be listed as suitable for that classified area.
In addition, cables used in other classified areas shall meet the requirements outlined in NFPA 70 (NEC),
Articles 501-505.
2. The minimum size for multi-pair/triad cable should be 18 AWG. The minimum wire size for single pair cable
shall be 16 AWG. A larger wire size up to 12 AWG may be considered to overcome potential voltage drops.
The maximum voltage drop shall not exceed 5%.
3. Type ITC cable shall not be installed on either non-power limited circuits or powered limited circuits operating
at more than 150 volts or more than 5 amperes.
4. Differences in the manufacturer recommended cable and these requirements shall be resolved with
Instrumentation Unit/PASD/P&CSD.
5. For control and marshalling cabinet wiring, refer to 34-SAMSS-820.
6. Maximum separation between redundant data links must be obtained within the operating plant. The use of a
single cable tray or conduit for primary and backup data links is not acceptable. Refer to Paragraph 12.3.2.
7. Protection against reverse EMF shall be provided for inductive loads such as relays, solenoids, etc. This may
be accomplished by installing a diode across the coil for DC loads or a metal oxide varistor (MOV) across the
coil for AC inductive loads.
8. If a discrete loop length exceeds 305 meters ( 1000 feet), 120 VAC signal shall not be used due to potential
capacitive or inductive coupling. In such cases, DC voltage shall be used.
9. Cables used in Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 circuits shall meet the requirements of Article 725 of the
National Electrical Code (NEC). Class 1 circuit wiring is preferred when the circuit class is not identified.

12.3 Special Cables

12.3.1 Thermocouple Extension Cable

Thermocouple extension cable types are detailed in 34-SAMSS-913.

12.3.2 Data Links

All in plant redundant process automation networks shall be routed in

separate cables. The primary cable shall follow a different route from
the backup cable. Primary and backup data link cables shall
preferentially enter cabinets or consoles from opposite sides.

Copper data link cables shall be specified per system manufacturers'

recommendations.

In plant fiber optic data link cables shall be specified and installed per
SAES-Z-020. If these cables are routed in aboveground conduit, the
conduit shall be specified and installed per this standard and SAES-P-104.

Data link cables shall not be routed in the same conduit, duct, or tray
with other instrument cables.

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Exception:

Fiber Optic data link Cables may be routed with other instrumentation
cables in existing trays or ducts with prior approval of the Supervisor,
Instrumentation Unit/PASD/P&CSD. Fiber Optic cables installed in trays
shall be routed in PVC conduit and shall meet ANSI/ISA TR12.21.01 if
installed in classified areas.

12.4 Color Coding

Power and signal wiring shall be color coded as follows:

Phase Black
AC Supply Neutral White
Ground Green with yellow tracer
Positive Red or red sleeve over any color except green
DC Supply
Negative Black or black sleeve over any color except green
Positive Black
Signal Pair
Negative White
Positive Black
Signal Triad Negative White
Third Wire Red
Positive Per ISA MC96.1
Thermocouple
Negative Per ISA MC96.1

13 Routing

Instrumentation and control cables and data highways in the field may be routed either
aboveground, underground or a combination of both as detailed in this standard.

13.1 Aboveground Routing

Above ground instrumentation cables may be run on a cable tray or in a conduit as

detailed below. Aboveground is the preferred routing method within a process
facility.

13.1.1 Instrument to Field Junction Box

Cable between field instruments and junction box shall be routed

above ground utilizing one of the following options:

13.1.1.1 Cable and Conduit

Single twisted pair/triad cables, per Table 2, shall be installed

in steel conduits from the field instruments to the field
junction boxes. Low-point drains and breathers shall be
provided as required on all conduits. Conduit installation
shall be per Section 8.

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Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

13.1.1.2 Armored Cable and Tray

a) Armored instrumentation cable shall be routed on a
cable tray per Paragraph 9.8. Single pair cables
(armored or non-armored) shall not be routed on
ladder cable trays.
b) The armored cable shall be routed independently of
existing overhead tray systems used for home-run
cables.
c) The unsupported end of the cable at the instrument
shall be looped; this loop shall take into account the
bending radius of the cable. The unsupported length
of cable at the instrument shall be the minimum
length required to provide the service loop.
Commentary Note:

This unsupported loop in the armored cable is

required to provide sufficient slack for cable gland
make-up and for easy removal of the cable from the
device for future instrument change-out.

d) The cable shall be either galvanized steel wire armor

or galvanized steel interlocking armor, per
34-SAMSS-913.

13.1.2 Field Junction Box to Control Room Marshalling Cabinets

13.1.2.1 Cables between field junction boxes and marshalling

cabinets may be routed in conduits, on trays, or direct
buried. For direct burial, the trench shall be constructed per
SAES-P-104. Twisted, multi-pair/triad cables per Table 2
shall be used for all homerun cables. The use of armored
cables for homerun application is not recommended.
However, if they are used, the cables shall be terminated
using glands per Paragraph 6.2 at both ends. In addition,
the armor shall be grounded at both ends.

13.1.2.2 All signal wiring from field cables shall terminate in dedicated
marshalling Marshalling cabinets shall comply
with 34-SAMSS-820, Instrument Control Cabinets - Indoor.
Exceptions:

1. Wiring for millivolt, microamp, pulse, and frequency signals

under one Volt such as thermocouples, vibration elements,

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load cells, thermistor elements and transmitters with pulse

outputs may be directly connected to the I/O unless
otherwise specified.

2. In outdoor applications where the number of loops is relatively

small such as in the case of onshore well sites, half- height
marshalling cabinet that are rack mounted may be used.

13.1.2.3 Marshalling cabinets shall only contain terminal strips, wire

terminations and wiring ducts. They shall not contain any
system components, power supplies, or any other active
components (with the exception of cabinet light and power
outlets).

13.1.2.4 Each cable or group of cables leaving a specific junction

box and carrying similar signals shall contain a minimum of
20% spare of the used pairs or triads.

13.1.2.5 All spare pairs/triads of a multi-pair/triad cable shall be

terminated at both the field junction box and the marshalling
cabinet. Drain wires for spare shielded pairs/triads shall
also be individually terminated at these locations.

13.1.2.6 Cables entering the marshalling cabinet shall be cut to the

appropriate lengths. Coiling extra cable length or spare
pairs/triads beneath the marshalling cabinet is not acceptable.
Where practically possible, the homerun cables should be
terminated on the left side of the terminal strip.
Exception:

For wiring directly connected to the I/O, per the exception

item in Paragraph 13.1.2.2, the spare pairs/triads may be
neatly coiled and taped beneath the cabinet.

13.1.2.7 All conductors/pairs, from each field cable, shall be

terminated adjacent to each other on the same terminal strip
in the marshalling cabinet.
Commentary Note:

The intent of this paragraph is to prohibit the splitting out of

individual conductors/pairs from one field cable and having
them terminated on different terminal strips in the same
marshalling cabinet or terminated in separate marshalling
cabinets.

13.1.2.8 Cable entry into control buildings and similar buildings in

hydrocarbon processing plants shall utilize bottom entry per

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relevant Safety and Security directives. The cable entries

shall be in accordance with SAES-P-104..

13.1.2.9 Emergency shutdown system (ESD) wiring shall have

dedicated cabling, junction boxes and marshalling cabinets.
Exception:

For offshore platforms only, ESD system wiring may be

terminated in the same junction box as general
instrumentation wiring provided that the signals are of the
same type. ESD and non-ESD terminals shall be segregated
within the junction box and shall be clearly labeled.

13.1.2.10 Wiring for intrinsically safe (IS) systems shall be

segregated and installed in dedicated conduit or cable tray
and terminated in dedicated junction boxes. For additional
details on IS wiring, refer to SAES-J-903.

13.1.3 Marshalling Cabinet to Control Room Instrumentation and Control

Systems

13.1.3.1 Cables connecting marshalling cabinet terminals to control

room instrumentation and control systems shall conform to
the requirements of Paragraph 13.1.2, above. Pre-assembled
cables with plug-in type connectors at the system cabinet end
and loose wires at the marshalling cabinet end may be used
for interconnections. Wiring lists identifying pin connections
shall be required for each pre-assembled cable.

13.1.3.2 Wiring requirements for distributed control systems (DCS)

are detailed in 23-SAMSS-010.

13.2 Underground

If requirements exist to protect against fire damage, underground routing may be

considered for branch cables with prior approval of the Supervisor, Instrumentation
Unit/PASD/P&CSD. For home-run cables, direct burial is allowed and shall be in
accordance with SAES-P-104, Wiring Methods and Materials, and Paragraph
13.1.2.1 of this standard.

13.3 Under Raised Floors

13.3.1 Instrumentation cables installed beneath raised computer floors in

control rooms shall be placed in ladder, trough or solid bottom cable
tray. Segregation and separation of the cabling shall be in accordance
with Section 14.

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Exception:

Alternative installation methods may be used with the approval of the

Operating Facility Manager.

13.3.2 Where cable tray is used beneath raised computer floors in control
rooms, it shall be sized per Section 9.

13.3.3 Cable trays beneath raised floor shall be adequately identified using
suitable permanent tag plates. These tag plates shall be installed at
each end, tee connection and at 3000 mm ( 18 inches) intervals.
The tag plates shall be located so that it is clearly visible. The tag
plates shall contain, as a minimum, the noise susceptibility level of the
circuits enclosed (per Paragraph 14.1) source, and the destination.

14 Signal Segregation, Separation and Noise Reduction

14.1 Signal Segregation

14.1.1 Signal wiring (instrumentation cable) shall be categorized with noise

14.1.1.1 Level 1 High to Medium Susceptibility: Analog signals

of less than 50 V and discrete instrument signals of less
than 30 V.

Signal Types
a) Foundation Fieldbus
b) 4-20 mA and 4-20 mA with HART
c) RTD
d) Thermocouple
e) Millivolt/Pulse
f) Discrete input & output signals, e.g., pressure
switches, valve position limit switches, indicating
lights, relays, solenoids, etc.
g) All wiring connected to components associated with
sensitive analog hardware (e.g., strain gauge)
h) Copper data links (RS-232 or 485)

14.1.1.2 Level 2 Low Susceptibility: Switching signals greater than

30 V, analog signals greater than 50 V, and 120-240 AC
feeders less than 20 amps.

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Signal Types
a) Discrete input & output DC signals, e.g., pressure
switches, valve position limit switches, indicating
lights, relays, solenoids, etc.
b) Discrete input & output AC signals, e.g., pressure
switches, valve position limit switches, indicating
lights, relays, solenoids, etc.
c) 120-240 AC feeders of less than 20 amps.

14.1.1.3 Level 3 Power: AC and DC buses of 0-1000 V with

currents of 20-800 amps.
Commentary Note:

Level 3 Power: is shown for the spacing requirements

between 'instrumentation cable' and 'electrical cable'.

14.1.2 Multi-pair/triad cable shall not be used to route more than one signal
type. In addition, junction boxes shall be segregated based on signal
type (e.g., each signal type shall have its dedicated junction box).

14.1.3 Cables with the same noise susceptibility level may be grouped in trays
and conduit (e.g., all level-1 cables may be routed in one cable tray).
Exception:

RS-232/485 and other copper communication cables (other than FF)

shall be routed in dedicated conduits and trays for functional
segregation purposes.

14.2 Signal Separation

14.2.1 Tray Spacing: Table 3 indicates the minimum distance in millimeters

between the top of one tray and the bottom of the tray above, or
between the sides of adjacent trays. This also applies to the distance
between trays and power equipment of less than 100 kVA.

14.2.2 Tray-Conduit Spacing: Table 4 indicates the minimum distance in

millimeters between trays and steel conduits.

14.2.3 Conduit Spacing: Table 5 indicates the minimum distance in

millimeters between the outside surfaces of parallel steel conduits.
This also applies to the distance between steel conduits and power
equipment of less than 100 kVA.

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14.2.4 When routing instrumentation and control signal cabling (level 1 or 2)

near sources of strong electromagnetic fields, such as large
transformers, motors and generators, defined for purposes of this
standard as greater than 100 kVA, a minimum spacing of 2000 mm
shall be maintained between the cables and the devices.

14.2.5 For direct buried cable, or cables in PVC conduits, cable spacing shall
be as shown in Table 3.

14.2.6 When entering terminal equipment (e.g., motor control center) and the
spacing listed in tables 3, 4, or 5 cannot be maintained, parallel runs
shall not exceed 5 ft in the overall run.

14.2.7 Minimum separation requirements between various instrumentation

cables and fiber optic data link cables shall be per the manufacturer's
recommendation.

14.2.8 When routing Instrumentation cables (level 1 & level 2) near power
cables carrying higher loads than the limits specified in level 3, the
separation distances shall be 1500 mm (59 inches) as a minimum.
Exception:

Due to space limitation on offshore platforms, the separation distance

between NSL-1&2 instrumentation cables and power cables above
NSL-3 shall not be less than 1000 mm (39.4 inches) for parallel runs and
650 mm (25.6 inches) for cable crossing at 90 degrees.

14.2.9 Power cables and instrumentation cables shall cross at right angles
(90 degrees) while maintaining the required separation distances per
the tables below.
Table 3 Tray Spacing, millimeters (inches)

NSL * 1 2 3
1 0 (0) 150 (6) 650 (26)
2 150 (6) 0 (0) 200 (8)
3 650 (26) 200 (8) 0 (0)

Table 4 Tray-Conduit Spacing, millimeters (inches)

NSL * 1 2 3
1 0 (0) 100 (4) 450 (18)
2 100 (4) 0 (0) 150 (6)
3 450 (18) 150 (6) 0 (0)

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Table 5 Conduit Spacing, millimeters (inches)

NSL * 1 2 3
1 0 (0) 75 (3) 300 (12)
2 75 (3) 0 (0) 150 (6)
3 300 (12) 150 (6) 0 (0)

* NSL = Noise Susceptibility Level

14.3 Noise and Signal Interference Reduction

14.3.1 Noise

Signal wiring shall be installed in a manner that will minimize

unwanted and unnecessary distortion of the signal. Unwanted noise
are imposed on an electric signal transmission system by inductive,
capacitive or direct coupling with other circuits by leakage current
paths, or ground current loops. In addition, utilizing common return
lead for more than one circuit shall be avoided to minimize noise.

Twisting and shielding of instrumentation wiring shall also be used as

detailed below to minimize the impact of noise on instrumentation signals.

14.3.2 Shielding

14.3.2.1 Shielded cables shall be used as required in Table 2 to

reduce electrostatic noise. The shield shall be grounded at
one point only, typically at the marshalling cabinet in the
control room or process interface building.
Exception:

Shield for grounded thermocouple shall be grounded in the

field, at the thermocouple end.

14.3.2.2 Cable shields must have a single, continuous path to ground.

Special grounding terminals in intimate contact with the DIN
Rail, jumper bars or preformed jumper combs designed for
the selected terminal blocks shall be used to consolidate
shield drain wires for connection to ground. Ground loops
and floating shields shall be avoided. Shield drain wires
shall not be daisy-chained to the ground connection.

14.3.2.3 Shield drain wires of single pair/triad cables shall be

terminated in junction boxes as specified in Paragraph 10.2.7.

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14.3.2.4 Shields of twisted and individually shielded multi-pair/triad

cables shall be terminated in junction boxes as specified in
Paragraph 10.2.8.

14.3.2.5 In installations where there is a transition from multi-pair or

multi-triad cables to individual pairs/triads for field device
connection in a junction box, the respective shield drain
wires shall be joined via terminal strip and shall not make
electrical contact with the junction box or any other circuit.
Using push-on type connectors or sandwiched shield bars
for shield drain wire connection is not acceptable.

14.3.2.6 The shield drain wire on the ungrounded end of the cable
shall be cut and insulated with a heat shrink sleeve to
prevent unintentional grounding.

14.3.2.7 Except for coaxial cables, instrument cable shields shall

never be used or considered as signal conductors.

14.3.3 Twisting

Twisted pairs/triads shall be used as required in Table 2 to reduce

electromagnetic noise.

15 Termination

15.1 Methods

15.1.1 The termination shall be channel (rail) mounted, strip-type terminal

blocks, with tubular box clamp connector and compression bar or
yoke, as detailed in Paragraph 15.2.

15.1.2 When screw-type terminals are provided on field instruments or other

electrical devices, solderless crimp/compression connectors shall be
used for connecting stranded copper conductors. Screw-type terminals
are defined as those in which the termination method involves the
direct compression of the conductor by the underside of the screw
head, and which do not contain the conductor within a clamp or yoke.
Insulated ring lugs or locking fork connectors, specifically designed to
hold the connector on the terminal in the event of loosening of the
terminal screw, shall be used on all such connections. Exposed
electrical connections at signal lamps and pushbuttons shall be
completely shrouded by removable, insulating covers.

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15.2 Terminal Blocks

15.2.1 Terminal blocks shall be channel (rail) mounted, strip type, with tubular
box clamp connector and compression bar or yoke for wire termination.
As a minimum, the thickness of the terminals shall be 5 mm or higher.
Multi-deck and spring type terminal blocks are not acceptable.

15.2.2 Terminals and terminal block accessories (e.g., DIN rail mounting
brackets for electrical insulation, busbar support blocks, end brackets,
etc.) shall be fire retardant in accordance with UL 94, V0. Terminals
and accessories shall be made of halogen free, high strength material
such as polyamide, or equivalent materials. Brittle materials such as
melamine shall not be used.

15.2.3 Fused terminals shall be equipped with blown fuse visual indication.
The disconnect levers for fused terminals and knife- switch terminals
shall be hinged.

15.2.4 Wires terminated on these terminal blocks shall not have the bare ends
coated with or dipped in solder ( tinned ). However, termination of
wiring that has individual strands of the copper conductor tinned
during manufacture (typical of shield drain wires or for corrosion
protection) is acceptable. Direct termination of the bare wire end is
acceptable. No more than two bare wire ends shall be connected to
each side of a single terminal block.

15.2.5 The use of crimp-on ferrules for this type of termination shall follow
manufacturer's guidelines. Ferrules shall be provided with plastic
insulating collars. Two-wire ferrules are acceptable. However, the use
of ferrules to daisy chain is not acceptable. Only one ferrule shall be
connected to each side of a single terminal block.

15.3 Terminal Strip Assemblies

15.3.1 Terminal strip spacing shall allow ample room for plastic wire ducts
and permit training and lacing of cables, and fanning of individual
wires to termination points. Each terminal strip shall be labeled above
or below with the terminal strip number, as shown on wiring diagrams.

15.3.2 Terminals for similar (AC or DC) current service shall be grouped
together and physically separated from terminals for different service
by means of dividers, separate mounting rails or separate enclosures.

15.3.3 Terminals for 120 VDC and 120 VAC power for field contacts shall be
segregated from other systems.

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15.3.4 Terminal strips for ESD wiring shall be completely separate from all
other wiring including power, control and instrumentation.

15.4 Wire Ducts and Gutters

15.4.1 Plastic wire ducts with removable covers shall be installed in control
panels and marshalling cabinets as required to provide a means of routing
and organizing wiring between terminal blocks and instrument racks or
panels. A minimum of 50 mm ( 2 inches) shall be maintained between
the duct and terminal strips to permit wire markers to be completely
presented without being obscured by the duct. Where space limitations
preclude the use of plastic wire ducts, wiring shall be neatly loomed and
secured with plastic spiral wrapping or tie-wraps and anchors.

15.4.2 Wire ducts for ESD wiring shall not contain any other types of wiring.

16 Identification

16.1 Wire Tagging

16.1.1 All wiring shall be tagged at each end. Each wire tag shall have two
labels. The first label (closest to the end of the wire) shall identify the
terminal number to which the wire is physically connected. The other
label shall be the terminal number of the connection of the opposite
end of the wire.
Commentary Note:

This paragraph is specifying the source and destination information to

be imprinted on one (1) heat shrink sleeve. Sometimes, the term 'label'
is interpreted as requiring two separate wire tags, one containing the
source information and the other containing the destination information,
which is incorrect.

16.1.2 Where wires terminate on instrument or device terminals, the

instrument tag number and terminal designation (+) or (-), shall be
used in lieu of terminal strip identification.

16.1.3 Wire tag information shall be permanently marked in block alpha

numeric or typed on tubular, heat-shrinkable, slip-on sleeves.
Wrap-around, snap-on or self-adhesive wire markers shall not be used.
Handwritten wire tags are not acceptable.
Exceptions:

1) Alternate wire tagging schemes, which conform to established local

practice, may be used for extensions to existing facilities with the prior
approval of the operating facility Manager.

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2) Plastic sleeves that are specifically designed to fit on a specific wire

gauge and come with pre-printed alpha/numeric inserts (such as
Grafoplast Trasp System) may be used for wire tags with prior approval
of the Operating Facility Manager.

16.1.4 A clear heat shrink sleeve shall be installed over the wire tag for all
instruments that use rust preventive grease on its threaded wiring
access cover.

16.1.5 Spare pairs/triads in multi-pair/triad cables shall be labeled Spare in

addition to the destination and source terminal numbers. The Spare
designation shall be on a separate wire tag installed on the twisted pair
and not part of the source/destination tag.
Commentary Note:

We do not allow the Spare designation to be printed on each

source/destination wire tag because this would require new tags to be
made when the conductors are utilized. This is inefficient since the
source/destination designations do not change.

16.2 Cable Tagging

16.2.1 All cables shall be tagged, at each end, with a cable-tag.

16.2.1.1 Homerun cables shall be tagged with the assigned IC

cable number.

16.2.1.2 The cable tagging philosophy for cables routed from

junction boxes to field instruments shall be defined by the
Proponent Representative.
Commentary Note:

Some Proponent facilities prefer to tag the instrument

cables with the instrument cable number (e.g., IC-1249)
where other facilities prefer to tag the cables with the
instrument tag number (e.g., TT-1249).

16.2.2 Cable-tags outside junction boxes and marshalling cabinets shall be

316 SS with permanently marked alphanumeric characters i.e., raised
or stamped characters. The cable-tag shall be securely attached to the
cable with stainless-steel cable ties. Where cable tags are required
inside junction boxes or marshalling cabinets (i.e., cables extended in
conduits), weather resistant, high quality plastic cable tags secured
using cable ties per Paragraph 5.7.2 may be used.

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16.3 Terminal Reference

16.3.1 Each row of terminals shall be uniquely identified alphanumerically,

e.g., TS-101, TS-102, etc.

16.3.2 The terminals in each row shall be sequentially numbered starting at

number one (1).

17 Grounding

17.1 General

17.1.1 Electrical systems must be connected to ground for the protection of

personnel and equipment from fault currents (AC safety ground) and to
minimize electrical interference in signal transmission circuits
(Instrument DC & Shield ground).

17.1.2 Two grounding systems are required for instrumentation systems:

a) Safety Ground for personnel safety.
b) Instrumentation DC & Shield Ground.

17.1.3 Both safety ground and instrumentation DC & Shield ground must
conform to NEC, Article 250.

17.1.4 Grounding system recommendations and requirements provided by

manufacturers of instrumentation and control systems (e.g., distributed
control systems and ESD Systems) shall also be taken into consideration.

17.1.5 For all grass root projects, process automation grounding scheme shall
be per Library Drawing DC-950150-001.

17.1.6 For all grass root projects, safety grounding wires shall be green with
yellow tracers. Instrumentation DC & Shield grounding wires shall be
green.

17.2 Safety Ground

17.2.1 All exposed non-current-carrying metallic parts that could become

energized with hazardous potentials must be reliably connected to the
equipment grounding circuits. This assures that hazardous potential
differences do not exist between individual instrument cases or between
an instrument case and ground. Therefore, all metal equipment and
enclosures within a panel or series of panels (i.e., instrument cases,
hinged doors, racks, etc.) shall be bonded with bonding jumpers and
connected to a safety ground bus with a minimum copper wire size of

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12 AWG. Two copper conductors, 25 mm² minimum, shall be

connected from the safety ground bus to a single tie point on the safety
ground grid in a closed loop configuration. Safety ground connections
must be made such that when a case-grounded instrument is removed,
the integrity of the rest of the safety ground system is maintained.

17.2.2 Enclosures for field instruments shall be grounded as follows:

17.2.2.1 Instruments Operating at Greater than 50 Volts

The enclosures for instrument devices operating at

120 VAC or 125 VDC shall be grounded per SAES-P-111.

17.2.2.2 Instruments Operating at Less than 50 VDC

The enclosures for instrument devices operating at 50 VDC

or less may be grounded using one of the following options:
a) Connecting the enclosure directly to the grid using
25 mm² ground wire.
b) Connecting the enclosure to a grounded instrument
stand or other supporting structure, provided that the
instrument device is properly fastened and the
mounting clamp is mechanically and electrically in
intimate contact with the stand.
c) Using the conduit as a ground conductor, provided
that the conduit system is continuous and properly
grounded. A bonding jumper shall be used across any
flexible conduit at the instrument end. All conduit
fittings shall be listed as suitable for grounding.
d) Using the cable armor (assuming armored cable is
used) provided that the following criteria are met:
1) The armor construction is suitable as a
grounding path per the NEC.
2) The cable glands, on each end of the armored
cable, shall be designed to bond the armor to the
gland (i.e., listed as suitable for grounding).
3) The armored cable runs in one continuous length
from a properly grounded junction box to the
device being grounded, i.e., no splices are
permitted.

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4) The armored cable is not in direct contact with

the soil for any portion of the run.

17.3 Instrument DC and Shield Ground

17.3.1 The purpose of instrument DC & Shield ground bus bar is to reduce the
effect of electrical interference upon the signal being transmitted.
A DC & Shield ground bus bar shall be provided within each cabinet
for consolidating instrument signal commons and cable shield drain
wires. This ground bus shall be isolated from the safety ground system
and from the body of the cabinet except at the plant reference point as
shown in Library Drawing DC-950150-001.

17.3.2 Each instrument signal common shall be connected to the isolated

instrument DC and Shield ground bus with copper wire sized to carry
the expected fault current or 12 AWG, whichever is larger using a
screw-type compression ring lug. Two insulated copper conductors,
25 mm² minimum, shall be connected from the instrument DC and
Shield ground bus within each cabinet to a single tie point on the Master
Instrument Ground bar (MIG) within the control building in a closed
loop configuration. The resistance from the isolated instrument DC and
Shield ground bus to the plant ground grid shall be less than 1 ohm.
Exception:

For offshore platforms, AC and DC & Shield ground bus bars within
standalone cabinets can be directly connected to dedicated and
separate points on the platform overall grounding grid. The sizes of the
grounding wires shall be per Library Drawing DC-950150-001.

17.4 Grounding within Control and Process Interface Buildings

17.4.1 In cases where there are many ground buses such as in control or process
interface buildings, isolated instrument DC and Shield ground bars from
all cabinets shall be consolidated into a Master Instrument Ground Bus
(MIG) located within that building. Similarly, AC ground bus bars shall
be consolidated into a Master Safety Ground Bus (MSG).

17.4.2 The Master instrument ground bar shall be connected to the PAS
Master Reference Ground (MRG). The MRG should then be
connected in a loop configuration to a single point on the plant
grounding grid as shown in Library Drawing DC-950150-001.

17.4.3 Master Safety ground shall be connected directly to the plant

grounding grid, as mandated by IEEE 1100. The connection to the
plant grid shall be in a loop configuration as detailed in Library
Drawing DC-950150-001.

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Document Responsibility: Instrumentation Standards Committee SAES-J-902
Issue Date: 17 May 2015
Next Planned Update: 20 July 2019 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation

17.4.4 Instrument cable shields shall be connected to the instrument DC and

Shield ground bus in accordance with Paragraph 14.3.2.

17.4.5 Bonding cabinet AC or DC and Shield ground bus bars in a daisy-

chain connection is not acceptable.

17.4.6 The connections of the ground wires to the ends of the cabinet bus bars
and to the building master ground bars (MIG & MSG) shall be via
suitable screw-type compression ring lugs.

17.5 Special Considerations

Some equipment (data highways, computers, distributed control systems, etc.)

may require special provisions for grounding. Manufacturers' recommendations
should be carefully evaluated at all times.

17.6 Ground Fault Detection

17.6.1 When critical control systems, i.e., emergency shutdown (ESD)

systems, utilize fully floating DC power where both positive and
negative buses are isolated from earth ground, a selective ground fault
detection system shall be incorporated to detect leakage current from
field I/O wiring to ground.

17.6.2 Due care must be taken to ensure that circuits from one ground fault
selector switch will not be cross-connected to circuits from any other
ground fault selector switch (e.g., at common annunciator points, lamp
test connections).

17.7 Lightning Protection

Lightning protection shall be provided where required in SAES-P-111.

Revision Summary
20 July 2014 Revised the Next Planned Update, reaffirmed the content of the document, and reissued as
major revision primarily intended to edit some of the words and provide clarifications to some
of the existing requirements.
17 May 2015 Editorial revision to change primary contact information.

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