Six wiring and grounding problems that lead to low power quality
In this technical article, typical wiring and grounding problems, as related to power quality, are presented. Possible solutions are given for these problems as well as the possible causes for the problems being observed on the grounding system. (See Table 2 at… Read more
Dec 14, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Sizing of motors and frequency converters for a particular machine load
Manufacturers of electric motors and frequency converters have evolved various methods for quickly selecting the size of motors and frequency converters for a particular machine load. The same basic procedure is used by most applications engineers. These days, applications selections… Read more
Dec 12, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
The principles of differential protection you MUST understand
Although nowadays differential protection is achieved numerically, in order to understand the principles of differential protection it is useful to analyze the ubiquitous electromechanical relay. Figure 1 shows a simple differential protection scheme, also known as a Merz-Price scheme. In this… Read more
Dec 09, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
9 rules for correct cabling of the Modbus RS485 communication systems
The cabling of the industrial communication systems (Modbus RS485) is different in some ways from the cabling used for power cabling and the electrician may experience some difficulties if he is not an expert in Modbus communication networks. A Modbus RS485 connects a… Read more
Dec 07, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Shaping and connecting rigid busbars in low voltage switchgear
The busbars constitute the real “backbone” of every low voltage switchgear. The main busbar and branch busbars supply and distribute the energy. Creating busbars generally involves machining, bending and shaping which require a high degree of expertise to avoid weakening… Read more
Dec 05, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Gas insulated substation (GIS) versus Air insulated substation (AIS)
The metal-enclosed gas insulated switchgear> inherently follows the criteria for new substation design and offers a higher reliability and flexibility than other solutions. Due to the gas enclosed design, GIS is the most suitable solution for indoor and underground substations…. Read more
Dec 02, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
What is an inductor and how it works (facts you must NEVER forget)
We have all heard the term Inductor many times, but what is it? Well, it is a passive element designed to store energy in its magnetic field. Inductors find numerous applications in electronic and power systems. They are used in… Read more
Nov 30, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Troubleshooting dead circuit by testing continuity with disconnected supply
Dead circuit testing is testing performed with the power disconnected from the circuit. The main benefit of disconnecting power supply while tests with an external energy source are performed is to eliminate hazardous risks to the environment or the person… Read more
Nov 28, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
3 good ways to improve earth electrode resistance
When you find that your earth electrode resistance is not low enough, there are several ways you can improve it: Lengthen the earth electrode in the earth Use multiple rods Treat the soil As you might suspect, driving a longer… Read more
Nov 25, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
5 transformer fault conditions and how to protect from them
A number of transformer fault conditions can arise practically in any time following some special situations. These include the following five most common internal faults and few external: earth faults, core faults, interturn faults, tank faults, and external factors. Table… Read more
Nov 23, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Protection from fault current by automatic power supply disconnection
The use of protective conductors linking all the exposed conductive parts of all equipment creates a circuit called the “fault loop” designed for circulation of the fault current that arises following an insulation fault. The fault current may or may… Read more
Nov 21, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Traditional Star-Delta motor starting method used in practice
Due to their simplicity, robustness and cost-effectiveness, squirrel cage motors are the preferred choice of industry. During start-up, they develop currents of up to approximately 8 times the rated current and the high starting torque linked to this. The high… Read more
Nov 18, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
How capacitors improve the power factor and how to calculate them?
It’s quite simple. By installing capacitors or capacitor banks. Improving the power factor of an electrical installation consists of giving it the means to “produce” a certain proportion of the reactive energy it consumes itself. The capacitor is most frequently… Read more
Nov 16, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Installation tips for prefabricated busbar systems and cables
The term installation configuration, when applied to prefabricated busbar systems and cables – power transport and power distribution in the installation, essentially refers to the geometric requirements of the conductor routing that will have to be taken into consideration. Adaptability… Read more
Nov 14, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
High voltage station – Design, construction and commissioning process
The development of a high-voltage (HV) substation is a massive multidisciplinary undertaking. Recent trends in utilities have heavily favored sourcing the design and construction of HV stations through EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) or turnkey contracts. Regardless of the procurement… Read more
Nov 11, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
