Electrical Arcs (Part 2 of a 2 Part Series)
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookCircuit ProtectionIssue 19 – 2011Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Electrical Arcs (Part 2 of a 2 Part Series)

In Part One of this article we discussed the equipment and procedures used to manage the damaging effects of arcs in electrical equipment. In Part Two, we will discuss some of the basic methods, tools, components and circuits that should be used to operate safely around circuits with high arc potential. Part One can be…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 21 – 2011Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology BriefVariable Speed Drives

Top 10 Tips: Specifying VFDs (Part Two of a Two-Part Series)

This is part two of a two-part series on variable frequency drives. In Part One, we discussed how choosing the right variable frequency drive (VFD) can reduce energy consumption, improve realtime control, and lengthen motor life. Here are more expert tips to consider. Select the Proper Control Mode VFD control mode choice greatly depends on…
Top 10 Tips: Specifying VFDs (Part One of a Two-Part Series)
+Tech TopicsApplicationAutomation NotebookEnergy/UtilitiesIndustryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssueProductProgrammable ControlTechnology BriefVariable Speed Drives

Top 10 Tips: Specifying VFDs (Part One of a Two-Part Series)

This is part one of a two-part series on variable frequency drives. VFDs can reduce energy consumption, improve real-time control, and lengthen motor life; selecting the right one for your application requires asking the correct questions. Here are some expert tips to consider. Determine if a VFD is right for your application. The primary function of…
Transformers: Application, Construction and Efficiencies (Part 2)
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookElectrical PowerIssue 16 – 2010Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Transformers: Application, Construction and Efficiencies (Part 2)

The Conclusion of a Two-Part series In the last issue of NOTEBOOK, we discussed the two categories of transformers commonly available and typical applications for them. The final category is control transformers, which are commonly incorporated into a machine element. This is the broadest category, as voltage matching situations will almost certainly be encountered which, in…
Electrical Arcs (Part 1 of a 2 Part Series)
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookCircuit ProtectionIssue 18 – 2010Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Electrical Arcs (Part 1 of a 2 Part Series)

Those of us who have worked with, or around, electrical equipment have witnessed electrical arcs. At the very least, we’ve seen the sparks produced when a relay or contactor switches off. Similarly, most of us also know that repetitive arcing can be very damaging to contacts over the long term, requiring periodic replacement of relays…
Transformers: Application, Construction and Efficiencies
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookElectrical PowerIssue 15 – 2009Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Transformers: Application, Construction and Efficiencies

Part One of a Two-Part Series Although most of us have encountered transformers in our professional lives, it’s surprising just how little the average designer or technician knows about them. A transformer’s principal function is to “transform” alternating current from an undesirable voltage to a voltage that is appropriate for the circuit at hand. A…
Fuses or Circuit Breakers: Which should you use?
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookCircuit ProtectionIssue 14 – 2009Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Fuses or Circuit Breakers: Which should you use?

Circuit Protection For most of us who work in the electrical design field, the question of circuit protection is omnipresent in our day-to-day efforts. There are a myriad of circuit protection technologies available that address phenomenon such as high voltage transients, inductive kick-back, capacitive coupling, high inrush currents and ground faults, just to name a…