Free Expert Guides on Power Systems, Circuit Design & Electrical Troubleshooting

What is Dielectric Grease?Dielectric Grease DefinitionDielectric grease is a silicone-based grease used to protect electrical components from dirt, moisture, and corrosion.Non-Conductive PropertyDielectric grease is an insulator, which means it prevents the flow of electrical current.Usage PrecautionEnsure dielectric grease does not contact conductive paths to avoid disrupting electrical connections.Comparison with VaselineVaseline is weaker and less durable than dielectric grease, especially in

What is a Cut Sheet ?Cut Sheet DefinitionA cut sheet (or spec sheet) is defined as a document that details the specifications and features of a piece of equipment.PurposeCut sheets are used in the electrical industry to provide necessary details for equipment installation and approval.Specifications IncludedThey include key specifications such as sizes, ratings, capacities, and part lists.Comparison ToolCut sheets help in comparing different equipment models by listing alternate model numbers an

What is 1900 Electrical Box ?1900 Electrical Box DefinitionA 1900 Electrical Box is defined as a standard 4-inch square electrical switch box, used when a simple switch box is insufficient.Types and Capacity 1900 Electrical Box 1900 Deep Electrical BoxDesign and DimensionsThese boxes have a patented design for easy cable removal and reuse. The regular box is 4×4 inches and 1.5 inches deep, while the deep box is 4×4 inches and 2.125 inches deep.Historical BackgroundThe name “1900 Box” comes from

What is CSST Bonding ?CSST Bonding DefinitionCSST (Corrugated Stainless-Steel Tubing) bonding is defined as connecting a conductor to the CSST gas pipe and grounding system to ensure safetyNecessity of CSST BondingProper bonding reduces the risk of fires or explosions caused by lightning strikes or power surges.Proper Bonding TechniqueA bonding wire should connect to the rigid gas piping or directly to the CSST fitting, ensuring a secure and continuous path to the ground.Code ComplianceCSST bond

What is a Dead Short ?Dead Short DefinitionA dead short is when electrical current flows where it shouldn’t, with no resistance, often causing damage or hazard.Comparison with Short CircuitUnlike a short circuit, which has some resistance and reduced voltage, a dead short shows zero voltage and resistance, indicating a more severe problem.Give an exampleBolted Fault SimilarityA bolted fault, like a dead short, also exhibits zero resistance, but it specifically involves connections to ground.Grou

What is Clamping Voltage?Clamping Voltage DefinitionClamping voltage is defined as the maximum voltage allowed to pass through a surge protector before it limits further voltage, protecting connected devices from surges.Purpose and OperationSurge protectors use clamping voltage to suppress excess voltage, ensuring devices remain safe from power surges.Breakdown VoltageBreakdown voltage is defined as the minimum voltage at which an insulator starts to conduct electricity, allowing current to flow

What is Available Fault Current?Available Fault Current DefinitionAvailable Fault Current (AFC) is defined as the maximum current available during a fault condition, also known as available short-circuit current.Importance of AFC MarkingAFC must be marked with a calculation date as per the 2011 NFPA 70: NEC section 110.24.Fault Current CalculationTo calculate fault current, use the system voltage, conductor constant, and length of the service entrance conductor. Find the system voltage (E_{L-L})

Electric Heating DefinitionElectric heating is the use of electrical energy to produce heat for various purposes, both industrial and domestic.Types of Electric HeatingPower Frequency HeatingResistance Heating Direct Resistance Heating Indirect Resistance HeatingArc Heating Indirect Arc Heating Direct Arc HeatingHigh Frequency Heating Induction Heating Dielectric Heating Infrared HeatingInduction Heating Direct Induction Heating Indirect Induction HeatingInfrared HeatingUsed in industries for ta

What is an Electric Water Heater ?Electric Water Heater DefinitionAn electric water heater is defined as a device that uses electricity to heat water for domestic or commercial purposes.Types of Electric Water Heaters Normal plate heaters Immersion heaters Geyser heatersNormal Plate Heater Working PrincipleA normal plate heater uses two nickel plates to heat water through electric current, ideal for small amounts of water. Advantages of normal plate heaters They are easy to use and portable. The

Casing Capping Wiring DefinitionCasing capping wiring is defined as a system where PVC insulated wires are placed in a plastic or wooden channel and covered with a cap.ComponentsThis system uses channels and caps made of plastic or wood, typically in white or grey, and available in standard lengths.Installation ProcessThe process involves cutting channels to size, screwing them to walls, placing wires inside, and covering with a cap.Types of Wires UsedCommon wire sizes include 0.75 mm², 1 mm², 1