Insights from a Professional Electrician In the complex world of electrical systems, transformers play a pivotal role in ensuring a steady and efficient power supply. However, like any machinery, transformers are susceptible to wear and tear, potentially leading to costly repairs. As a seasoned professional electrician, I’ve witnessed firsthand the…
Control power systems change the VOLTAGE levels of the primary voltage, to a usable level needed by many electrical devices. For instance, a common low voltage system (one thousand volts or below) operates at 480 volts, a popular distribution voltage in factories. 480 volt is used to power 480-volt three…
Electrical switches, used to disconnect/ connect power, have a mechanism to handle flash over current via arcing contacts. Arcing during load break is a normal phenomenon. It is a result of interrupting an electrical signal with significant energy. When two conductive surfaces begin to separate, the electric flow wants to…
In the realm of facility management, ensuring the safety and efficiency of large machinery and electrical systems is paramount. The cost of electrical failures, both in terms of downtime and repairs, can be astronomical. This is where the proactive strategy of regular infrared imaging scans comes into play. As an…
Sometimes during transformer infrared inspection or during a GA oil analysis problems are found. Elbow Problem Bushing Well Insert Problem If you don’t fix transformer issues found during your infrared inspection you might find yourself doing this! Transformer problem areas can include the following internal parts: HV Cable Loadbreak Insert…
REMEMBER: Just because you haven’t seen problems doesn’t mean there are no problems! These system’s do not announce failure. When called to operate, malfunction will put your facility without electrical power quicker than you can say “why didn’t I maintain this?”
Switchgear Testing Hi, I’m Neil, owner and operator of All-Test Company. We help people keep their switchgear up and running via testing, repair, preventative maintenance, calibration and product sales. I have learned quite a bit about switchgear in my 39 years of hands-on field experience working at Square D Company…
Switchgear has needs for control power transformers. Circuit breaker operation: motors that charge breaker springs. Power too close or trip the solenoids that operate the breaker Electronic devices such as power monitors, automatic power factor correction systems, etc Convenience outlets Cabinet lighting/ indicator lamps Station battery charging systems Control Power…
Last weekend, we performed a scheduled ground fault test on the main electrical system at a school. We have tested it according to the manufacturer’s directions for 19 years. It passes every year! This time, it failed! The main switch did NOT turn off. Had this been an actual ground…
