Fundamental electrical engineering concepts and theory
In an earlier note on the site [Photovoltaic (PV) - Electrical Calculations], the theory of solar (PV) ... read more..
In three phase systems, the use of transformers with three windings (or legs) per side is common. These three windings are often connected in delta or star, resulting in common transformer conf... read more..
Many questions sent in to the site are in connection with motor starting and in particular star-delta. For all but the simplest application, there is merit in performing a more detailed study.&... read more..
Induction motors are frequently used in both industrial and domestic applications. Within the induction motor, an electrical current in the rotor is induced by a varying magnetic field in the s... read more..
Traditionally generation of electricity has involved rotating machines to produce alternating sinusoidal voltage and current (a.c. systems). With the development of power electronics during the last ... read more..
Modelica is an open source (free) software language for modelling complex systems. Having never used it before, I thought I would download a development platform and see how it stacked up. This... read more..
When sizing cables, the heat generated by losses within any sheath or armour need to be evaluated. When significant, it becomes a factor to be considered in the sizing of cables.
This ... read more..
Gauss's Electrical law defines the relation between charge ("Positive" & "Negative") and electric field. The law was initially formulated by Carl Friedrich Gauss in 1835.
In Gauss'... read more..
Maxwell's Equations are a set of fundamental relationships, which govern how electric and magnetic fields interact. The equations explain how these fields are generated and interact with each other, ... read more..
Capacitors have numerous applications in electrical and electronic applications. This note examines the use of capacitors to store electrical energy. The sidebar shows details of a typical c... read more..
Capacitors are widely used in electrical engineering for functions such as energy storage, power factor correction, voltage compensation and many others. Capacitance is also inherent in any ele... read more..
If two dissimilar metals are touching and an external conducting path exists, corrosion of one the metals can take place. Moisture or other materials acting as an electrolyte between the metals... read more..
These lifts were first built in 1884 by J. E. Hall and called a paternoster ("Our Father", the first two words of the Lord's Prayer in Latin) due to its...
This is the second post in a series of two on periodic electrical inspections. In the first post, I discussed how often inspections should be carried out...
While there are a vast array of cable insulation materials, these are often divided into two general types; Thermoplastic or Thermosetting. For example...
A battery consists of one or more cells, each of which use stored chemical energy to produce electrical energy, There are many types of cells and these...
Years ago I was told that you should always try to write the best report you can. Many years later I still think on this as one of the better pieces of...
Carrying out a protection system discrimination study is critical to ensure the correct functioning of the electrical system in the event of faults. ...
Anyone specifying or using electric motors should have a basic understanding how the insulation is related to temperature. Three classes of insulation...
This post is quick introduction and overview to different railway electrification voltages used in answer to a question sent in via email. While there...
The calculation of current in a three phase system has been brought up on our site feedback and is a discussion I seem to get involved in every now and...
Sometimes it’s useful to be able to quickly lookup a piece of technical information. This note is a collection of information related to motors, and in...
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