Specific capacitor installations & reactive compensation of asynchronous motors / transformers
Although in general, the calculation of the reactive power to be installed is initially carried out globally, it is advisable not to be swayed by the apparent simplicity of this process, and to look further for the optimum locations for… Read more
Aug 30, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
The basics of primary distribution circuits (substation branches, feeders…)
Distribution circuits come in many different configurations and circuit lengths. Most share many common characteristics. Figure 1 shows a typical distribution circuit, and Table 1 shows typical parameters of a distribution circuit. A feeder is one of the circuits out… Read more
Aug 28, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Should transfer switch be equipped with contactors or circuit breakers? Manual or automatic?
Transfer switches support multiple operation modes (manual, automatic, non-automatic, bypass isolation, etc.) and feature a range of different switching mechanisms (contactors, circuit breakers). Transfer switches are used to protect critical electrical loads against loss of power. The load’s normal power… Read more
Aug 23, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
The essentials of electric shock protection, earthing systems and RCDs
Protection of persons and livestock against electric shock is a fundamental principle in the design of electrical installations in accordance with BS 7671: Requirements for Electrical Installations, commonly known as The IEE Wiring Regulations. Use of the correct earthing system… Read more
Aug 21, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Nine power generating units grouped by prime mover you should know about
Many types of power generating plants are in use and possible for the future, including steam plants fueled by coal, oil, or gas, nuclear plants, hydro plants and plants which use renewable energy. Most types of power generating units can… Read more
Aug 18, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
5 special applications of residual current devices (RCDs)
Normally residual current devices (RCDs) are used for protection against direct and indirect contacts. An RCD can detect low leakage currents that could flow through the body of a person. It thus provides additional protection if the normal protection means… Read more
Aug 16, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
The essentials of MV/HV magnetic voltage transformers
Magnetic voltage transformers are used to provide a secondary signal that is proportional to the actual prevailing primary value. These signals are used to supply measuring instruments, meters, relays and other similar apparatuses. The primary values measured are system currents… Read more
Aug 14, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Ten equipment you MUST recognize in every distribution substation
Distribution substation is a substation from which electric supply is distributed to the different users. In a substation there are numbers of incoming and outgoing circuits each having its isolator, circuit breaker, transformers etc. connected to bus-bar system. These equipment… Read more
Aug 11, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
The most common methods of measuring the resistance of an earth electrode
When an earth electrode system has been designed and installed, it is usually necessary to measure and confirm the earth resistance between the electrode and “true Earth”. The most commonly used method of measuring the earth resistance of an earth… Read more
Aug 09, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Practical advice for positioning of circuit breakers inside LV switchboard
Mounting of the different mechanical and electrical components (enclosures, busbars, functional units – circuit breakers, etc.) which constitute the LV switchboard defined by the original manufacturer must be carried out in compliance with the instructions (technical catalogue/assembly instruction manual) of… Read more
Aug 07, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
MV network diagrams for feeding secondary switchboards and MV/LV transformers
Let’s take a look at the main MV network diagrams and structures used to feed secondary switchboards and MV/LV transformers. The complexity of the diagrams differs, depending on the level of power supply security required. Note that there are many… Read more
Aug 04, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
How to install a manual transfer switch for a backup system in 16 steps
A manual transfer switch is installed next to the main service panel to override the normal electrical service with power from a backup generator during a power outage. Manual transfer switches require an operator to change the power source, while… Read more
Aug 02, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi