Search

Premium Membership β™•

Limited Time Offer: Save 15% on PRO Plan with discount code: LRN15 and study specialized LV/MV/HV technical articles and studies.

The Role of Schematics

A schematic is a diagram that represents the elements of a power system using abstract, graphic symbols rather than realistic pictures. The reason for not emphasizing reality is to communicate function, instead.

Schematic Representation Of Power System Relaying
Schematic Representation Of Power System Relaying (on photo: Protection scheme testing using relay software; credit: acrastyle.co.uk)

A schematic usually omits all details that are not relevant to the information the schematic is intended to convey, and may add unrealistic elements that aid comprehension. The information that the schematic is intended to convey is determined by its role.

Three types of schematics are:

  1. Single line diagram (SLD),
  2. AC schematic diagram and
  3. DC schematic diagram.

Any depiction of reality by the single line diagram is on a large scale, it might show where major pieces of equipment are in relation to each other.

Example A of a Single Line Diagram
Example A of a Single Line Diagram

On the other hand, though the AC and DC schematics still don’t show reality in every detail, they will contain information that will provide the link between the real depiction of the equipment seen in wiring diagrams and the almost purely functional depiction shown in the single line diagram.

Specifically, an AC schematic diagram shows, by means of graphic symbols, the electrical connections and functions of a particular circuit arrangement.

A DC schematic diagram is frequently used to represent the logic of electrical control systems (switching or relaying) including a number of switches or contacts, time delay and latching type relays, push buttons, limit switches, lights, and controlled devices like motor starters and solenoid operated valves.

Consequently, the role of the schematic is to facilitate tracing the measuring and control circuits and the understanding of control functions without regard to the actual physical size, shape, or location of the component device or parts. In the schematic diagram, the symbolic elements are arranged to be easily interpreted by the viewer.

Power system relaying has unique requirements for long term accuracy to serve maintenance and troubleshooting needs. The facilitation mentioned above for tracing circuits and understanding functions is especially important to the requirements for maintenance and trouble shooting.

For these reasons, these drawings will get special emphasis.

Title:Schematic Representation Of Power System RelayingΒ – A report to the Relaying Practices Subcommittee I; Power System Relaying Committee; IEEE Power Engineering Society – Prepared by Working Group I5
Format:PDF
Size:7.3 MB
Pages:60
Download:Right here | Video Courses | Membership | Download Updates
Schematic Representation Of Power System Relaying
Schematic Representation Of Power System Relaying – A report to the Relaying Practices Subcommittee I; Power System Relaying Committee; IEEE Power Engineering Society – Prepared by Working Group I5

Premium Membership

Get access to premium HV/MV/LV technical articles, advanced electrical engineering guides, papers, and much more! It will help you to shape up your technical skills in your everyday life as an electrical engineer.
50% Discount πŸ’₯ - Save 50% on all 90+ video courses with Enterprise Membership plan.

More Information

One Comment


  1. Ebrima
    Aug 13, 2021

    I am an Electrical Engineer working at the seaport of The Gambia – Gambia Ports Authority.
    I would like to be electrical engineering papers. I would also like electrical engineering drawing software.
    Thanks

Leave a Comment

Tell us what you're thinking. We care about your opinion! Please keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. So, please do not use a spammy keyword or a domain as your name, or it will be deleted. Let's have a professional and meaningful conversation instead. Thanks for dropping by!

nine  ×  one  =  

Learn How to Design Power Systems

Learn to design LV/MV/HV power systems through professional video courses. Lifetime access. Enjoy learning!

Subscribe to Weekly Newsletter

Subscribe to our Weekly Digest newsletter and receive free updates on new technical articles, video courses and guides (PDF).
EEP Academy Courses - A hand crafted cutting-edge electrical engineering knowledge