Abstract: A method and a device in connection with digital distance relays for obtaining a backup function in the event of faults in the digital signal processing and/or in the event of faults detected during automatic testing. The method comprises testing the distance relay continuously, in case of a faultless network, with respect to the digital signal processing by means of a central control unit. In case of a characteristic fault on the network, the distance relay is switched over from testing to protective function involving measurement by means of measurement signal units included in the distance relay. In case of a fault on the network and a simultaneous fault in the digital signal processing, fault signals from the measurement signal units, via time delay circuits and logical elements, bring about tripping of the line section subjected to the fault. When a fault is detected in the digital signal processing, an alarm function is triggered.

Abstract: By a process of cleaning flue gases, both solid particles and nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide are removed from the flue gas prior to the discharging into the atmospheric air. In order to ensure that almost all the content of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides is removed from the flue gas, said flue gas is initially carried through a shower of aqueous liquid and subsequently through a heat exchanger, in which its temperature is lowered to about 20.degree.-30.degree. C., and then through a film of alkaline liquid, and finally through a second shower of aqueous liquid to pass a sulphuric acid neutralizing liquid in a container before the discharging into the atmospheric air. As a result a simultaneous possibility of utilizing the heat of the flue gas is ensured by means of the heat exchanger. A cleaning plant for carrying out the process comprises an apparatus (2), through which the flue gas cleaned of solid particles is carried.