Electrical Engineering

Friday, 3 October 2025

📝 The Evolution of the Electrical Field with Artificial Intelligence: A Technological Revolution

⚡ Introduction

The world is witnessing a rapid transformation, and at the center of this change lies the powerful combination of Electrical Engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI). From smart grids to predictive maintenance, the integration of AI is redefining how we generate, transmit, distribute, and consume electrical energy.

What was once a field dominated by manual operations and static systems has now evolved into an intelligent, data-driven ecosystem that can analyze, predict, and optimize with remarkable precision. This evolution isn’t just improving efficiency—it’s reshaping industries, cities, and the way we live.

🧠 1. Smart Grid Modernization

Traditional electrical grids were designed for one-way power flow—from centralized power stations to consumers. But with increasing demand, renewable energy integration, and decentralized systems, this model faces limitations.

Enter AI-powered Smart Grids. Using real-time data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and IoT sensors, modern grids can:

Predict and balance power demand more accurately.
Detect faults and self-heal faster.
Integrate renewable energy sources smoothly.
Minimize transmission losses.

For example, AI-based load forecasting enables utilities to adjust generation and distribution in real time, reducing blackouts and saving millions in operational costs.

🔌 2. Predictive Maintenance and Asset Management

In electrical systems, unexpected equipment failure can lead to costly downtime and safety hazards. AI solves this by enabling predictive maintenance.

By collecting sensor data from transformers, motors, and switchgear, AI models can predict failures before they occur. This allows maintenance teams to schedule timely interventions, reducing downtime by up to 50% and extending asset lifespan.

👉 Key Example: Power companies use deep learning models to detect anomalies in transformer oil patterns, preventing catastrophic failures.

🌿 3. Renewable Energy Integration

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inherently intermittent. AI algorithms can predict generation patterns based on weather forecasts and historical data, ensuring that the grid remains balanced.

AI in Solar: Smart inverters use AI to adjust output for maximum efficiency.
AI in Wind: Predictive models forecast wind speed, allowing better planning and energy storage utilization.

This integration is critical for achieving Net Zero Carbon goals and building sustainable energy systems.

🏢 4. AI in Building Electrification and Automation

Modern buildings are evolving into smart energy ecosystems. Electrical systems are no longer static—they’re dynamic, interconnected, and automated.

With the help of AI:

Lighting, HVAC, and appliances can be optimized for energy savings.
Occupancy patterns can be analyzed to control loads intelligently.
Microgrids and on-site generation can be managed seamlessly.

This leads to reduced operational costs, improved comfort, and greener buildings.

🦾 5. Autonomous Electrical Systems

One of the most exciting frontiers is the rise of self-operating electrical systems. AI can make decisions autonomously to optimize power flow, reroute during faults, or adjust generation dynamically.

For example:

Autonomous substations can operate with minimal human intervention.
AI-driven energy trading platforms can make instant decisions in electricity markets.
Robotics & drones powered by AI can inspect transmission lines in hazardous locations.

📊 6. Data-Driven Design and Simulation

Electrical engineers now rely heavily on AI-assisted design tools that can simulate, analyze, and optimize systems before implementation.

AI tools can:

Recommend optimal cable routes and transformer locations.
Predict voltage drops and fault currents with high accuracy.
Generate multiple design iterations automatically.

This shortens project timelines, reduces errors, and improves system reliability.

🚀 Conclusion

The evolution of the electrical field with AI is not a distant future—it’s happening now. AI is enhancing efficiency, sustainability, reliability, and cost savings across the entire electrical ecosystem.

As the world moves toward Industry 5.0 and smart infrastructure, professionals who embrace this technological synergy will lead the next wave of innovation.

⚡ Electrical Engineering + Artificial Intelligence = Smarter Energy Future

🏷️ Trending Tags:

#ArtificialIntelligence #ElectricalEngineering #SmartGrid #EnergyInnovation #RenewableEnergy #MachineLearning #Industry5_0 #PowerSystems #AIinEnergy #SmartInfrastructure #GreenTechnology #SustainableFuture

🔑 Top Keywords for SEO:

Evolution of electrical engineering with AI
Artificial intelligence in power systems
Smart grid AI applications
Predictive maintenance in electrical systems
AI for renewable energy integration
Electrical automation using AI
Intelligent energy management
Future of electrical engineering
AI in building electrification
Sustainable power distribution

⚡ Electrical Energy and AI: Powering a Smarter Future

In today’s rapidly evolving world, electrical energy and artificial intelligence (AI) are two of the most transformative forces shaping industries, economies, and everyday life. When these two technologies converge, they unlock powerful opportunities to make our energy systems smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.

From intelligent grids to predictive maintenance and automated energy optimization, AI is revolutionizing the way we generate, distribute, and consume electrical power.

🌍 1. The Growing Importance of Electrical Energy

Electricity is the backbone of modern society. Homes, industries, transportation, and communication systems all rely on uninterrupted power. However, the global energy landscape is changing due to:

Rising energy demand driven by population growth and digitalization
Integration of renewable sources like solar and wind
Climate change concerns pushing for cleaner, smarter energy systems
Infrastructure aging, which increases maintenance costs and reliability challenges

Traditional energy systems struggle to keep up with these pressures. This is where AI steps in as a game changer.

🤖 2. How AI Enhances the Electrical Energy Sector

AI uses algorithms, real-time data, and predictive analytics to improve decision-making and automation. Here’s how it transforms key aspects of the power ecosystem:

a) Smart Grid Optimization

AI enables grids to self-regulate and respond dynamically to fluctuations in supply and demand. For example:

Adjusting power flow during peak usage hours
Detecting faults in real time and rerouting power automatically
Balancing renewable energy sources with traditional generation

This leads to higher reliability, fewer outages, and more efficient use of existing infrastructure.

b) Predictive Maintenance

Electrical systems such as transformers, circuit breakers, and turbines are prone to wear and failure. AI can:

Analyze sensor data to detect anomalies
Predict equipment failures before they occur
Optimize maintenance schedules, reducing downtime and costs

This prevents unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of critical assets.

c) Energy Consumption Optimization

AI-powered platforms help industries, buildings, and even households reduce energy wastage by:

Learning usage patterns
Automatically adjusting lighting, HVAC, and machinery operations
Recommending behavior changes or automation for efficiency

This not only lowers electricity bills but also reduces carbon emissions.

d) Renewable Energy Forecasting

Solar and wind power are intermittent by nature. AI algorithms use historical data, weather patterns, and real-time sensor inputs to:

Accurately forecast renewable generation
Help grid operators plan better integration
Minimize reliance on fossil fuels for backup power

This improves grid stability and accelerates the clean energy transition.

🧠 3. Real-World Applications

AI is no longer a future concept—it’s already being applied across the electrical energy sector:

Google’s DeepMind cut data center energy usage by up to 40% through AI-driven cooling optimization.
Smart meters in cities collect real-time data, enabling AI to detect theft, predict demand, and suggest savings.
Microgrids are being managed by AI for remote communities, ensuring stable power even in isolated regions.
EV charging networks use AI to balance loads and prevent grid overload.

🌱 4. Benefits of Combining AI with Electrical Energy

⚡ Improved efficiency in generation, transmission, and consumption
🛡️ Higher reliability and fewer blackouts
💰 Cost savings for utilities and consumers
🌍 Lower carbon footprint and better renewable integration
🧩 Data-driven decision-making for future energy planning

🚀 5. Future Outlook

The fusion of AI and electrical energy is still evolving, but the potential is enormous. In the coming years, we can expect:

Fully autonomous grids that self-heal and self-optimize
AI-controlled smart cities, where buildings and transport systems coordinate energy use seamlessly
Personalized energy solutions for every home through intelligent assistants
Decentralized energy trading using blockchain and AI, empowering consumers to become “prosumers” (producers + consumers)

📝 Conclusion

Electrical energy powers our world, while AI gives us the intelligence to use it wisely. Together, they form the foundation of a cleaner, more reliable, and efficient energy future.

As technology continues to advance, embracing this synergy will be crucial for governments, industries, and individuals alike.

🔑 Key Takeaway:

“Electrical energy fuels the world, and AI makes it smarter.”

Reasons of Failure of electrical equipment

Failure of electrical equipment

Causes

There are two fundamental causes of failure of electrical equipment, mechanical failure or electrical failure of insulation

1. Mechanical causes

The safety of electrical equipment depends to a large extent on sound mechanical design. The majority of circuit breaker failures are mechanical rather than electrical in nature. Typical faults are loose joints leading to overheating or arcing and the existence of voids and contamination in insulation causing arcing and breakdown products. Where the insulation is bulk oil the products of arcing are themselves highly flammable (acetylene for example) and have often led to explosions.

Fractures may be caused by resonant vibrations of current carrying conductors either from purely mechanical movement or from electromagnetic forces leading to fatigue hardening and subsequent breakage. Where metallic elements are stressed in a corrosive atmosphere (e.g. damp or polluted atmospheres) along with alternating forces, failure may occur at comparatively low stress. Some steels, which under normal conditions exhibit considerable ductility, will fail at low temperatures by brittle fractures with no ductile deformation.

Mechanical failure of insulators may displace conductors and cause short circuits. Ceramic insulators are brittle but have great strength in compression. However ceramic insulators are vulnerable where they are used in tension or shearing situations. They are now largely confined to outdoor overhead lines and switch gear where their robust construction makes them less susceptible to mechanical failures although they are then vulnerable to vandalism.

2. Breakdown of insulating materials

The electrical breakdown of insulating materials may also occur as follows:

Mechanically, as by friction or tearing.
As a result of excessive electrical stress.
As a result of excessive temperature (and occasionally very low temperature) or temperature cycling. The latter may cause mechanical stresses as a result of differential expansion or contraction.
Chemical and physical reaction with other materials,

E.g. oxidation, contamination or the leaching out of important ingredients which may lead to de-plasticisation, i.e. they become brittle. The ingress of water is a very common contamination leading to `treeing' and eventual electrical breakdown.

Failure is rarely the result of inadequate electrical breakdown strength where reasonably pure materials are used. In practice, insulation is rarely designed to be stressed to more than 10% of its strength as determined by laboratory tests. It fails because of impurities, lack of homogeneity, the unavoidable variations in commercially available materials as well as in those natural products such as paper, wood and petroleum products. The insulation performance of most commercially used materials is now well documented and standard testing procedures have been established.

SAG in electrical power transmission.

What is Sag.?

In electrical power transmission and mechanical design of overhead transmission line.

SAG.

A perfectly flexible wire of uniform cross-section, when string between the two supports at the same level, will form a catenary. However, if the sag is very small compared to the span, its shape approximation a parabola.

The difference in level between the point of support and the lowest point on the conductor is known as sag

The factors affecting the sag in an overhead line are given below.

1. Weight of the Conductor,

This affect the sag directly. Heavier the conductor, greater will be the sag. In locations where ice formation takes place on the conductor, this will also cause increase in the sag.

2. Length Of the Span.

This also affect the sag. Sag is directly proportional to the square of the span length Hence other conditions, such as type of conductor, working tension, temperature etc. remaining the same a section with longer span will have much greater sag.

3. Working Tensile Strength.

The sag is inversely proportional to the working tensile strength of conductor if other conditions such as temperature, length of span remain the same. Working tensile strength of the conductor is determined by multiplying the ultimate stress and area of cross section and dividing by a factor of safety.

4. Temperature.

All metallic bodies expand with the rise in temperature and, therefore. The length of the conductor increases with the rise in temperature, and so does the sag.

Reference from .

Transmission and distribution of electrical power by-J.B.Gupta.

The Part of Electrical Distribution system

The Electrical Distribution system further be divided into following.

Feeders, Distributors and Service Mains.

1.Feeders.

Feeders are the conductors which connect the stations (in some cases generating stations) to the areas to be fed by those stations.

Generally from feeders no tapping is taken to the consumers therefore current loading of a feeder remains the same along its length.

It is designed mainly from the point of view of its current carrying capacity

2.Distributors.

Distributors are the conductors from which numerous tapping’s for the supply to the consumers are taken.

The current loading of a distributor varies along its length. Distributors are designed from the point of view of the voltage drop in them.

3.Service Mains.

Service mains are the conductors which connect the consumer's terminals to the distributor.

Distributor is subject to the legal requirement that the voltage at the consumers terminals should be maintained within +/- 6% of the declared (or rated) voltage.

However, there is no such legal restriction on a transmission line and the voltage can vary as much as 10% or even 15% due to variations in loads.

Reference from.

Transmission and distribution of electrical power by- J.B.Gupta

COMPARISON BETWEEN OVERHEAD AND UNDERGROUND ELECTRICAL SUPPLY SYSTEMS

Transmission and distribution of electric power can be carried out by overhead as well as underground systems. Comparison between the two is given below:

1.Public Safety: Underground system is more safer than overhead system.

2.Initial Cost: Underground system is more expensive. For a particular amount of power to be transmitted at a given voltage the underground system costs almost double the cost of overhead system.

3.Flexibility: Overhead system is more flexible than underground system. In overhead system new conductors can be laid along the existing ones for load expansion. In case of underground system new conductors are to be laid in new channels.

4.Working Voltage: The underground system cannot be operated above 66 kV because of insulation difficulties but overhead system can be designed for operation upto 400 kV or higher even.

5.Maintenance Cost: Maintenance cost of underground system is very low in comparison with that of overhead system.

6.Frequency of Faults or Failures: As the cables are laid underground, so these are not easily accessible. The insulation is also better, so there are very few chances of power failures or fault as compared to overhead system.

7.Frequency of Accidents:The chances of accidents in underground system are very low as compared to overhead system.

8.Voltage Drop: In underground system because of less spacing between the conductors inductance is very low as compared to overhead lines, therefore, voltage drop is low in underground system.

9.Appearance: Underground system of distribution or transmission is good looking because no wiring is visible. Due to its good looking, inspite of its higher cost it in adopted in modern cities like Chandigarh(Punjab) Faridabad.Ahmedabad.(Gujarat)

10.Fault Location and Repairs: Though there are very rare chances of occurring fault in underground system, but if occurs it is very difficult to locate that fault and it repair is difficult and expensive.

11.Charging Current: On account of less spacing between the conductors the cables have much capacitance, so draw higher charging current.

12.Jointing: Jointing of underground cables is difficult so tapping for loads and service mains is not conveniently possible in underground system.

13.Damage Due to Lightning and Thunder Storm: Underground system is free from interruption of service on account of thunder storm, lightning and objects falling across the wires.

14.Surge Effect: In underground system surge effect is smoothened down as surge energy is absorbed by the sheath.

15.Interference to Communication Circuits: In underground system there is no interference to communication circuits.

Mostly the high voltage transmission is carried out by overhead system due to low cost. However, distribution in congested areas and in modern cities, like Chandigarh, Ahemdabad is carried out by underground cables.

The overhead line as a mean of transmitting electrical power over long distances is chep and efficient (a 400 kV double-circuit line may transmit 2,000 MW over a distance of 160km in either direction with an efficiency of 98%).

Reference from.

Transmission and distribution of electrical power by- J.B.Gupta.

Cooling Methods of a Transformer

Why it is needed to cool down the transformer?

No transformer is truly an 'ideal transformer' and hence each will incur some losses, most of which get converted into heat. If this heat is not dissipated properly, the excess temperature in transformer may cause serious problems like insulation failure. It is obvious that transformer needs a cooling system.

Transformers can be divided in two types as

Dry type transformers.
Oil immersed transformers.

Different cooling methods of transformers are

For dry type transformers

Air Natural (AN)

Air Blast

For oil immersed Transformers

Oil Natural Air Natural (ONAN)

Oil Natural Air Forced (ONAF)

Oil Forced Air Forced (OFAF)

Oil Forced Water Forced (OFWF)

Cooling Methods for Dry Type Transformers

Air Natural or Self Air Cooled Transformer: This method of transformer cooling is generally used in small transformers (upto 3 MVA). In this method the transformer is allowed to cool by natural air flow surrounding it.

Air Blast: For transformers rated more than 3 MVA, cooling by natural air method is inadequate. In this method, air is forced on the core and windings with the help of fans or blowers. The air supply must be filtered to prevent the accumulation of dust particles in ventilation ducts. This method can be used for transformers upto 15 MVA.

Cooling Methods for Oil Immersed Transformers

Oil Natural Air Natural (ONAN): This method is used for oil immersed transformers. In this method, the heat generated in the core and winding is transferred to the oil. According to the principle of convection, the heated oil flows in the upward direction and then in the radiator. The vacant place is filled up by cooled oil from the radiator. The heat from the oil will dissipate in the atmosphere due to the natural air flow around the transformer. In this way, the oil in transformer keeps circulating due to natural convection and dissipating heat in atmosphere due to natural conduction. This method can be used for transformers upto about 30 MVA.

Oil Natural Air Forced (ONAF): The heat dissipation can be improved further by applying forced air on the dissipating surface. Forced air provides faster heat dissipation than natural air flow. In this method, fans are mounted near the radiator and may be provided with an automatic starting arrangement, which turns on when temperature increases beyond certain value. This transformer cooling method is generally used for large transformers upto about 60 MVA.

Oil Forced Air Forced (OFAF): In this method, oil is circulated with the help of a pump. The oil circulation is forced through the heat exchangers. Then compressed air is forced to flow on the heat exchanger with the help of fans. The heat exchangers may be mounted separately from the transformer tank and connected through pipes at top and bottom as shown in the figure. This type of cooling is provided for higher rating transformers at substations or power stations.

Oil Forced Water Forced (OFWF): This method is similar to OFAF method, but here forced water flow is used to dissipate hear from the heat exchangers. The oil is forced to flow through the heat exchanger with the help of a pump, where the heat is dissipated in the water which is also forced to flow. The heated water is taken away to cool in separate coolers. This type of cooling is used in very large transformers having rating of several hundred MVA.

WHAT IS REAL POWER IN ELECTRIC ENGINEERING

What Is Real Power?

Real Power: (P)

Real Power is the actual power which is really transferred to the load such as transformer, induction motors, generators etc. and dissipated in the circuit.

Alternative words used for Real Power (Actual Power, True Power, Watt-full Power, Useful Power, Real Power, and Active Power) and denoted by (P) and measured in units of Watts (W)

i.e. The unit of Active or Real power is Watt where 1W = 1V x 1 A

Real Power in DC Circuits:

In DC Circuits, power supply to the DC load is simply the product of Voltage across the load and Current flowing through it.

i.e., P = V I because in DC Circuits, there is no concept of phase angle between current and voltage.

In other words, there is no frequency (f) or Power factor in DC Circuits.

Real Power in AC Circuits:

But the situation in Sinusoidal or AC Circuits is more complex because of phase difference (θ) between Current and Voltage.

Therefore average value of power (Real Power) is P = VI Cosθ is in fact supplied to the load.

In AC circuits, When circuit is pure resistive, then the same formula used for power as used in DC as P = VI

Real Power Formulas:

• P = V I (In DC circuits)

• P = VI Cosθ (in Single phase AC Circuits)

• P = √3 VL IL Cosθ or (in Three Phase AC Circuits)
• P = 3 VPh IPh Cosθ

• P = √ (S2 – Q2) or

• P =√ (VA2 – VAR2) or

Real or True power = √ (Apparent Power2– Reactive Power2)
or
• kW = √ (kVA2 – kVAR2)

What is ACCL? And how it works?

ACCL is a Automatic source Changeover cum Current Limiter

The ACCL is a fully automatic, high precision system installed in apartments, residential complexes, commercial buildings etc.

It has the following functions:

• The ACCL allows unrestricted supply from mains.

• When the main supply fails and stand by Generator supply is on, it connects the DG power to each consumer in sequence & starts monitoring its load.

• The generator current allotment is software calibrated in Amps & sealed in each ACCL as per buyer's specification & is available on all load circuits.

• When ever the load current exceeds the allotment, power is automatically switched off for 8/10/12 seconds, and then automatically restored.

Benefits and Specifications:

• Available in Single Phase and 3 Phase configurations.from different make.

• Microprocessor based fully automated system to replace outdated manual systems.

• No separate wiring required.

• Assured availability of allotted current - no less, no more. Ensures equitable rationing of generator power.

• DIN channel mountable enclosures save space and make installation hassle-free.

• LED indication of operational states.

• Factory set and sealed calibration ensures that allotted limits cannot be tampered with.

• Single phase ACCL comes in TP MCB size (54mm).

• Tested at National Test House.

◘ contain source http://electron.co.in/ACCL.html

What is RCCB and Why it is needed ?

Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB)

Much Needed Introduction....

A Residual Current Circuit Breakers is another different class of Circuit Breakers. A Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is essentially a current sensing device used to protect a low voltage circuit in case of a fault. It contains a switch device that switches off whenever a fault occurs in the connected circuit.

Why needed RCCB..?

Residual Current Circuit Breakers are aimed at protecting an individual from the risks of electrical shocks, electrocution and fires that are caused due to faulty wiring or earth faults.

RCCB is particularly useful in situations where there is a sudden earth fault occurring in the circuit.

e.g. A person accidentally comes in contact with an open live wire in the circuit.

In such situation, in absence of an RCCB in the circuit, an earth fault may occur and the person is at the risk of receiving an electrical shock.

However, if the same circuit is protected with RCCB, it will trip the circuit in fraction of a second thus preventing the person from receiving an electrical shock. Therefore, it is a good and safe practice to install RCCB in your electrical circuit.

Variants of RCCBs....

2 Pole RCCB: It is used in case of a single phase supply that involves only a live and neutral wire. It is as displayed in image below. It contains two ends where the live and neutral wires are connected. A Rotary switch is used to switch the RCCB back to ON or OFF positions. A test button helps to periodically test the RCCB functionality.

4 Pole RCCB: It is used in cases of a three phase supply connection involving three phase wires and a neutral. It is as displayed in image below. It consists of two ends where the three phases and neutral wire is connected. Besides this it is similar in construction and operation as 2 Pole RCCB.

RCCBs come in different ratings like: 30mA, 100mA, 300mA

How does it Protect?

As explained above, RCCB is meant for protection from earth faults and associated risk to human life such as electrical shocks.

The underlying fundamental principle behind operation of RCCB is that in ideal situations the current flowing in to the circuit through live (hot) wire should be same as the returning current from the neutral.

In case of an earth fault, the current finds a passage to earth through accidental means (such as accidental contact with an open wire etc.). As a result the returning current from neutral is reduced. This differential in the current is also known as “Residual Current”.

RCCB is designed such way that it continuously senses and compares for difference (residual current value) in current values between the live and neutral wires. Any small change in the current value on account of such event would trigger the RCCB to trip off the circuit.

INTRODUCTION OF DIFFERENT CURVES IN MCBs

Peoples are confused at some point while buying MCBs for protraction in there house/ office/industries etc.

What is meant by B, C, D, K and Z curves in MCBs?

MCB is a device designed to protect a circuit from short circuits and over currents. Trip curves of MCB's (B, C, D, K and Z curves) tell us about the trip current rating of Miniature Circuit breakers. Trip current rating is the minimum at which the MCB will trip instantaneously. It is required that the trip current must persist for 0.1s.

An MCB with trip curve class B means that the MCB trips at as soon as the current rises above 3 to 5 times its rated current In. Similarly, MCB with trip curve class C means that the MCB trips at as soon as the current rises above 5 to 10 times its rated current In and so on..

In some applications, frequent current peaks occur for a very short period (100ms to 2s). For such applications class K type fuses shall be used. Class K type fuses are used in circuits with semiconductor devices.

TRIP CURVE CLASS B: Above 3 to 5 times rated current. Suitable for cable protection.

TRIP CURVE CLASS C: Above 5 to 10 times the rated current. Suitable Domestic and residential applications and electromagnetic starting loads with medium starting currents

TRIP CURVE CLASS D: Above 10(excluding 10) to 20 times the rated current. Suitable for inductive and motor loads with high starting currents.

TRIP CURVE CLASS K: Above 8 to 12 times the rated current. Suitable for inductive and motor loads with high inrush currents.

TRIP CURVE CLASS Z: Above 2 to 3 times the rated current. These type of MCBs are highly sensitive to short circuit and are used for protection of highly sensitive devices such as semiconductor devices.

If any query related this article

please share in comments.

One step towards LED-Savings with LED light -saving comparison LED Vs Conventional lights

Savings by using LED’s

You have often seen articles and lot of advertisements to use LED lights instead of conventional lights. Seeming the higher cost of LED’s we often reluctant to purchase LED lights. But there are huge savings by means of using LED lights.

Just by replacing LED tube light with conventional tube light savings are huge. Just go through the calculations as below:-

Conventional Tube Light:

36 W tube rod lumens intensity = 2000- 2500 Lumens

Conventional Tube light Wattage = 36 W for Tube rod

Choke Wattage of Tube light= 36 W

So Total power consumption = 72 Wattage per hour

Now considering 10 Hrs of use per day then total power consumption per day will be= 72 X 10=720 Watt hour

Power consumption per month= 720 X 30 = 21600 = 21.60 KWH (Units)

Now for whole year power consumption= 21.60 X 12= 262.80 KWH (Units)

Power cost for per unit power consumption = 8 Rs (Avg. after considering all charges including tax and fixed charges cost)

Total Annual power consumption cost= 262.80 X 8= 2102.4 /-

LED Light:

:
20 W LED light Lumens= 2000-2500 Lumens

LED light wattage = 20 W

Power consumption per Hour= 20 Wattage per hour

Now considering 10 Hrs of use per day then total power consumption per day will be= 20 X 10=200 Watt hour
Power consumption per month= 200 X 30 = 6000 = 6 KWH (Units)

Now for whole year power consumption= 6 X 12= 72 KWH (Units)

Power cost for per unit power consumption = 8 Rs (Avg. after considering all charges including tax and fixed charges cost)

Total Annual power consumption cost= 72 X 8= 576 /-

Now cost of replacement conventional tube light with LED =300 /-

Total Annual Savings = 2102- 576- 300= 1226/-

Now you could see that merely replacing a single tube light will leads to savings in thousands now replace all tube lights in house and in industries will leads to huge savings. Now LED lights are available in wide range of wattage and they are one on one replacement of conventional lights. You can also see that payback period of replacement of conventional light with LED is only 1.5 Months.

You need not to replace whole tube light fitting with new LED light as now days LED tube rod are available with which conventional tube rod can be replaced with LED tube rod and choke and starter were taken out of circuit.

Also there is longer life of LED lights in comparison to conventional tube lights, Conventional lights have life of 10000 -15000 hrs of usage in-comparison to LED lights which have 25000-50000 hrs of usage. With LED lights there will be reduced maintenance cost as there will be no choke required in LED lights.

Also cost of LED lights is coming down with new innovations and bulk production. Also there is advantage associated with LED lights that manufacturer are offering warranty of 2-3 years.

So let’s start with savings now by replacing conventional lights with LED lights.

SO as per my advice please share this post and as per my opinion please change all conventional Light by LED's.

What should be a Marking On Circuit Breakers...?

Marking On Circuit Breakers

Each circuit-breaker shall be marked in a durable manner.

a) The following data shall be marked on the circuit-breaker itself or on a nameplate or nameplates attached to the circuit-breaker, and located in a place such that they are visible and legible when the circuit-breaker is installed;

Rated current (In).
Suitability for isolation, if applicable, with the symbolic Indication of the open and closed positions, with O and I respectively, if symbols are used.

b) The following data shall also be marked externally on the circuit-breaker, except that they need not be visible when the circuit-breaker is installed;

Manufacturer’s name or trade mark;
Type designation or serial number;
IEC 60947-2 if the manufacturer claims compliance with this standard;
Utilization category;
Rated operational voltage
Rated impulse withstand voltage;
Value (or range) of the rated frequency
Rated service short-circuit breaking capacity at the corresponding rated voltage;
Rated ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity at the corresponding rated voltage
Rated short-time withstand current, and associated short-time delay, for utilization category B;
Line and load terminals, unless their connection is immaterial;
Neutral pole terminals, if applicable, by the letter N;
Protective earth terminal, where applicable, by the symbol
Reference temperature for non-compensated thermal release, if different from 30 ‘C.

c) The following data shall either be marked on the circuit-breaker as specified in item b), or shall be made available in the manufacturer’s published information:

Rated short-circuit making capacity,
Rated insulation voltage, if higher than the maximum rated operational voltage,
Pollution degree if other than 3;
Conventional enclosed thermal current if different from the rated current,
IP Code, where applicable
Minimum enclosure size and ventilation data (if any) to which marked ratings apply;
Details of minimum distance between circuit-breaker and earthed metal parts for circuit-breakers intended for use without enclosures;
Suitability for environment A or environment B, as applicable,
R.M.S. sensing, if applicable

D) The following data concerning the opening and closing devices of the circuit-breaker shall be placed either on their own nameplates or on the nameplate of the circuit-breaker; alternatively, if space available is insufficient, they shall be made available in the manufacturer’s published information:

Rated control circuit voltage of the closing device and rated frequency for alternating current
Rated control circuit voltage of the shunt release and/or of the under-voltage release, and rated frequency for Alternating current;
Rated current of indirect over-current releases;
Number and type of auxiliary contacts and kind of current, rated frequency and rated voltages of the auxiliary switches, if different from those of the main circuit.
Terminal marking.

The History of 555 Timer IC – Story of Invention by Hans Camenzind

The 555 Timer IC is one of the renowned ICs, in the electronic circles. However, its history of invention is not known to many. This article takes you on a journey of 555 timer IC from the time of its creation to the present day time.

What is a 555 timer IC?

A 555 timer IC, is a multipurpose integrated circuit chip, that finds its application in timer, oscillation and pulse generation circuits. It is one of the prominent and popular inventions of the electronic world. A monolithic timing circuit, the 555 timer, is equally reliable and cheap like op-amps working in the same areas. It is capable of producing stabilized square waveform of 50% to 100% duty ratio.

The Birth of 555 Timer IC

Hans R. Camenzind, designed the first 555 timer IC in 1971, under an American company Signetics Corporation. It is this design work of his, that is most prominent in Hans’s distinguished career in the field of Integrated Circuit technology. In the summer of 1971, first design was reviewed, that used a constant current source and had 9 pins. After the review was passed, Hans thought of a new idea of replacing the constant current source by a direct resistance. This reduced the number of pins from 9 to 8, and enabled the chip to be fit in an 8 pin package instead of a 14 pin package. This new design was passed in the review in October 1971. The IC consists of 25 transistors, 2 diodes and 15 resistors. In order to define the timings, provision to attach R and C externally is provided.

In 1972, Signetics Corp. then released its first 555 timer IC in 8 pin DIP and 8 pin TO5 metal can packages, as SE/NE555 timer and was the only commercially available timer IC at that time. Its low cost and versatility, made it an instant hit in the market. It was later on manufactured by 12 other companies and became the best selling product.

Although, there is a belief that this IC got its name from the three 5k resistors in its internal circuit, Hans R Camenzind revealed in his book, “Designing Analogue Chips”, that it was Signetics manager, Art Fury's, love for the number “555”, that led to the naming of the circuit.

The basic working tutorial of timer 555 IC has been discussed in our article “555timer- A complete guide”.

Applications of 555 Timer IC:

Through the years, electronic hobbyists and engineers have explored various areas where this IC can be used. From temperature measurement to voltage regulators to various multivibrators, this IC has found its prominent place in thousands of applications. The implementation of 555 TIMER IC depends on its operating mode. It is this versatility of 555Timer IC, that makes it useful for many applications.

Basically, a 555 timer IC has three operating modes.

Bi stable mode: The Schmitt trigger

Mono stable mode: One shot mode

Astable mode: Free running mode

555 timer as a multivibrator:

Depending on which type of multivibrator, (astable/monostable or bistable multivibrator) is to be used, the operating mode of 555 timer is selected. For example, if we want to design a monostable multivibrator, we will wire the 555 timer in the monostable mode.

These multivibrators are used in various two state devices such as relaxation oscillators, timers and flip flops.

555 timer IC as a PWM generator:

Using the variable “control” input , a 555 timer IC can be used to create a pulse width modulation (PWM) generator. The duty cycle here, depends on the analogue input voltage.

This operation of 555 timer can also be seen in Switched mode power supply (SMPS)circuit. As these SMPS circuits work on pulse width modulation (PWM) , the 555 timer turns to be the most prominent choice for the designers, as it is cheap and easy to incorporate in a circuit design. Here in these circuits, two timer ICs are used; one operates in astable mode and the other in PWM mode.

Another area where 555timer IC is implemented is in small DC-DC converter circuits. The 555 Timer when operating in astable mode, can produce a continuous stream of pulses of specified frequency. The IC output is fed to the converter to produce desired output voltages. These converter circuits have wide industrial applications.

Other circuits which use 555 timer include that of temperature measurement, moisture measurement waveform generators, various timer circuits, etc.

In recent times, the CMOS version of the IC is most commonly used. Among them, the popular ones are the ICs manufactured by MOTOROLA like MC1455. It can be directly used as a substitute to the original NE555 IC. This IC is pocket-friendly and costs around 0.28 US$.

The bipolar and the CMOS versions of 555 Timer IC

Ever since the first IC was manufactured, over 12 independent companies have fabricated the same. The original design had some design flaws like unbalanced comparators, large operating circuits, and sensitivity to temperature.

Hence, Hans R Camenzind, redesigned the existing IC to diminish the design flaws. The design of this IC was better than its original design. The improved IC was then sold by ZSCTI555 but could not create a buzz like the original 555timer IC did. Hence the original design continued to be a hit in the market.

However, the classic bipolar 555 IC version like NE555 IC, uses bipolar transistors, which dissipate large amount of power and produce high current spikes. Hence, these ICs could not be used in low power applications. This paved a way to the design of a new and version of the same, the CMOS version.

CMOS stands for “complementary metal-oxide semiconductor” and uses a combination of both n-type MOSFET (NMOS) and p-type MOSFET (PMOS), in enhancement mode. All the PMOS transistors have input from either the voltage source or from other PMOS, whereas, all the NMOS transistors have an input connected to ground or to other NMOS transistor. This composition leads to reduction in the power dissipation and lower current spikes.

An example of the CMOS version of 555 timer is LMC555 produced by texas instruments.

The Derivatives of 555 Timer IC:

Now we know what all a single 555 timer IC can do. This means a 555 timer can be used as an oscillator and as a pulse generator in the same circuit. For this purpose, numerous pin compatible derivatives, for both bipolar and CMOS versions of 555 Timer IC were produced by many companies, over the years.

The ICs are available either in round metal can package, or the more commonly seen 8 pin DIP package.

Packages – 555 Timer IC

A 14 pin package variation of 555 timer IC, called the 556 IC, was manufactured which had two 555 timer ICs in one chip. Here, the two ICs share a common ground and supply pin. The other 12 pins are allocated to the inputs and outputs of individual 555 timers.

LM556, a dual timer IC manufactured by texas instruments is one such IC. These IC s are ideal for sequential timing application.

Other derivative in 16 bit DIP package, the 558 and 559 had four ICs, in which DIS and THR were connected internally. The 558 IC , is a quad IC and is edge triggered. This eliminates the need of using coupling capacitor for sequential timing applications.

An Introduction about Electrical Relays……

There are two basic classifications of relays:

Electromechanical Relays
Solid State Relays

One main difference between them is electromechanical relays have moving parts, whereas solid state relays have no moving parts.

Electromechanical Relays

Electromechanical relays are switches that typically are used to control high power electrical devices. Electromechanical relays are used in many of today's electrical machines when it is vital to control a circuit, either with a low power signal or when multiple circuits must be controlled by one single signal.

Advantages of Electromechanical relays include lower cost, no heat sink is required, multiple poles are available, and they can switch AC or DC with equal ease.

Some of the electromechanincal relays are general purpose relays, power relay, contactor and time delay relay.

General Purpose Relay

Well known applications of general purpose relays are:

Lighting controls,
Time delay controls,
Industrial machine controls,
Energy management systems,
Control panels,
Forklifts,
HVAC.

The general-purpose relay is rated by the amount of current its switch contacts can handle. Most versions of the general-purpose relay have one to eight poles and can be single or double throw.

General Purpose Relays are cost-effective 5.1-15.1 Ampere switching devices used in a wide variety of applications.

These are found in computers, copy machines, and other consumer electronic equipment and appliances.

Power Relay

Power relays are used for many different applications, including:

Automotive electronics
Audio amplification
Telephone systems
Home appliances
Vending machines

Power relays also contain a spring and an armature and one or many contacts. If the power relay is designed to normally be open (NO), when power is applied, the electromagnet attracts the armature, which is then pulled in the coil’s direction until it reaches a contact, therefore closing the circuit. If the relay is designed to be normally closed (NC), the electromagnetic coil pulls the armature away from the contact, therefore opening the circuit.

Power relay is used for switching a wide variety of currents for applications including everything from lighting control to industrial sensors.

The power relay is capable of handling larger power loads 10-45 amperes or more. They are usually single-pole or double-pole units.

An Over view about MCCB (Moulded Case Circuit Breakers )

Molded Case Circuit Breakers

Molded Case Circuit Breakers are electromechanical devices which protect a circuit from Over-current and Short Circuit. It provides Short Circuit Protection and also Over-current and for circuits ranging from 63 Amps up to 3000 Amps.

Their primary functions are to provide a means to manually and automatically open a circuit under overload or short circuit conditions. The over-current, in an electrical circuit, may result from short circuit, overload or faulty design.

MCCB is an alternative to a fuse since it does not require replacement once an overload is detected. Unlike fuse, an MCCB can be easily reset after a fault and offers improved operational safety and convenience without incurring operating cost.

Molded case circuit breakers generally have a Thermal element for over-current and Magnetic element for short circuit release which has to operate faster.

MCCBs are manufactured such that end user will not have access to internal workings of the over-current protection device. Generally constructed of two pieces of heavy-duty electrically insulated plastic, these two halves are riveted together to form the whole. Inside the plastic shell is a series of thermal elements and a Spring-loaded trigger.

When the thermal element gets too warm, from an over-current situation, the spring trips, which in turn will shut off the electrical circuit.

Types of MCCBs

Larger molded case circuit breakers have adjustable range setting on the face of the device. Molded case circuit breakers can range in size from 32 Amperes up to 3000 Amperes.

Molded Case Circuit Breakers have the following Specifications

Current Rating - Amperes
Current Setting Range - Amperes
Short Circuit Rating - Kilo Amperes (KA)
Operating Characteristics - Normal / Current Limiting Type

MCCBs are now available with a variety of Releases or Operating Mechanisms these are given below

Thermal Magnetic Release
Electronic Release
Microprocessor Release
Thermal Magnetic Release MCCB

Thermal-magnetic circuit breakers use bimetals and electromagnetic assemblies to provide over-current protection. Their characteristic inverse time tripping under overload conditions is ideally suited for many applications varying from residential to heavy industrial loads. For higher level (short circuit) over currents, instantaneous trip characteristics allow molded case circuit breakers to interrupt with no intentional delay.

The adjustable overload protection is from 70% to 100% of the nominal current and short circuit setting from 5 to 10 times of the rated current is possible.

The minor disadvantage of the release is that operating characteristics of the breaker may vary depending on the ambient temperature.

Electronic Release MCCB

Electronic or Static Release Molded Case circuit breakers use power electronic circuitry to provide over-current protection. The Continuous adjustable overload protection from 60% to 100% of the nominal current and short circuit setting from 2 to 10 times of the rated current is possible.

The advantage of the release is that operating characteristics of the breaker is independent of the ambient temperature.

This wide flexibility takes care of future increases in load capacity of an installation and ensures better planning at an optimum cost.

Microprocessor release MCCB

Microprocessor release Molded Case circuit breakers use microprocessors to provide over-current protection. The Microprocessor release works on monitoring of current True R.M.S value. It is simulated and calculated from peak values, which installed microprocessor, can detect.

There is high Flexibility through multiple adjustments of protection settings, High repeat accuracy and High reliability.

Time delays can be provided for Short Circuit Release better discrimination and co-ordination using LCD display. System Diagnosis is possible as it stores the Trip history within the internal memory. Trip current indication is also available for understanding of type of fault and set-up programming at site.