What a ground fault circuit interrupter does and what it does not do
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) monitors the current balance between the ungrounded “hot” conductor and the grounded conductor. As soon as the current flowing through the “hot” conductor is in the range of 4 to 6 milli-amperes more than the… Read more
Sep 09, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
When does exciting current inrush occur in power transformer?
When a transformer is initially energized, there is a phenomenon known as exciting current inrush. Although inrush currents are not generally as damaging as fault currents, the duration of exciting current inrush is on the order of seconds (as compared… Read more
Sep 07, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
4 essential implementations of protective relays in power systems
In this technical article, protective relays are categorized depending on the component which are protect: Generators Transmission lines Transformers, and Loads There are different protection schemes used for protecting generators depending on type of fault to which they are subjected…. Read more
Sep 05, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Answer 20 questions correctly and prove you are good electrician
It’s not easy to be a good electrician, that’s for sure. Things you studied hard (or still studying) are gradually being forgotten, especially electrical formulas. Well, these 20 questions tend to wake up your memory and test your electrical knowledge… Read more
Sep 02, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Direct and indirect measurements using CTs and VTs
In order to measure electrical quantities, the measuring instruments must be connected to the lines safely, with maximum simplicity and convenience. Generally, the fundamental parameters to be detected are voltage and current, which respectively require a parallel connection and a… Read more
Aug 31, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Breaking of a short circuit current in a direct current system
Direct current presents different problems than alternating current with aregard to the phenomena associated to the breaking of a short circuit current and interruption of other types of high value current since the arc extinction results to be particularly difficult…. Read more
Aug 29, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
What details a motor nameplate shows and how to use them
We have all seen the motor nameplate attached on the motor side (or on top). All motors have a permanent nameplate which lists all important data, further data is usually available in the motor catalogue. It is important to recognize… Read more
Aug 26, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Calculate reactive power of the capacitor bank and improve power factor
For the dimensioning of the capacitor bank to be installed in order to improve the power factor of a plant, it is necessary to calculate correctly the power factor according to the consumption or to the load cycle of the… Read more
Aug 24, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Should you choose fixed or withdrawable medium voltage switchgear?
How to make the right choice between fixed or withdrawable medium voltage switchgear when selecting a new equipment for power substation? The following evaluation procedure should be conducted: Find out how important the additional aspects are. Weigh up the financial… Read more
Aug 22, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Motor wiring guidelines (Cable shielding, grounding and splicing techniques)
This technical article describes shielding, grounding, and splicing techniques for use with motor wiring. This article covers the following topics: Understanding noise in motor power wiring Shielding motor power cables Grounding motor power cable shields Applying ferrite sleeves Splicing motor… Read more
Aug 19, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Why busbar trunking system is a space saving solution worth every penny
As line distribution boards, busbar trunking system (BTS) also belongs to the group of switchgear assemblies documented in IEC 61439 (VDE 0660-600). Apart from the general requirements of IEC 61439-1 (VDE 0660-600-1), the required product features of busbar trunking system… Read more
Aug 17, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Basic measuring of resistance, voltage and current using digital multimeter
Digital multimeter has generally replaced the analog-type multimeter as the test device of choice for maintainers because they are easier to read, are often more compact and have greater accuracy. Digital multimeter performs all standard analog-meter measurement functions of AC and DC…. Read more
Aug 15, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
What happens when a transformer fire occurs in a substation
If a fire occurs as a result of a failure in a transformer, then the transformer is nearly always a total write off. However, the total cost of a transformer fire is typically in the order of 2-3 times the… Read more
Aug 12, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Testing of transformer oil and winding temperature indicators
All large transformers have an oil or a winding temperature indicating device of some type, and most have temperature recorders as well. Indication may be for top-oil temperature or hotspot temperature. Additional temperature-sensing equipment may be installed to provide alarm… Read more
Aug 10, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Guidelines for PLC installation, wiring and connection precautions
Input/output installation is perhaps the biggest and most critical job when installing a PLC – programmable controller system. To minimize errors and simplify installation, the user should follow predefined guidelines. All of the people involved in installing the controller should receive… Read more
Aug 08, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
