Building

Electrical
System
ENGINEERING UTILITIES 1
Course Topics

Building Electrical System Building Telecommunication System

Prelim Midterm Final Course Activity

Artificial Illumination and Daylighting Building Electrical Plan

Building Electrical (3D model)
Building Electrical System
Lecture 1 - Fundamentals of Electrical Circuits
➢Electrical Current

➢Ohms Law

➢Series and Parallel Circuit

➢Volt Transformation

➢Power and Energy

➢Voltage and Voltage Drop

Introduction to Electricity
Electricity
It is a form of energy generated by friction, induction or chemical change, having magnetic, chemical and radiant
effect . In short, electricity is “Electrons in motion”.

Electricity is one of the most useful discovery of man which paved the way to numerous inventions from the simple
tools to the most sophisticated gadgets making what originally seemed to be impossible become a reality.

Electricity has been here ever since and, its existence is as old as the universe which was discovered accidentally, by
the ancient Greeks sometime in 600 B.C. However, the title of “Father of Electricity” was accredited to William Gilbert,
an English Physicist after publishing his studies on the “Electric Attraction” and “The Electric Force”.

Electricity is a property of the basic particles of matter which is like an atom, consist of:
◦ Electron
◦ Proton
◦ Neutron
Introduction to Electricity
Electricity
Electron is the negatively charged particle of an atom, sometimes referred to as the “negative charge of electricity”.

Proton is the positively charge particle, also known as the “positive charge of electricity” that weighs about 1850
times as much as electron.

Neutron is that particle of an atom which is not electrically charged and weighs more than the proton.

Theory
◦ That, all matter are made up of molecule
◦ That, molecules are made up of atoms
◦ That, atoms contains neutrons, protons and electrons
◦ That, neutron is neutral. It is either positive or negatively charged
◦ That, electron of an atom of any substance could be transformed into another atom
Electric Current
It is the flow or rate of flow of electric force in a conductor. A current will only flow if a circuit is formed comprising a
complete loop and contains all the following required components.
◦ Source of Voltage
◦ A closed loop of wiring
◦ An electrical load
◦ A means of opening and closing the circuit

Electric Current Classification

◦ Direct Current (DC) – the flow is in one direction, said to be from negative to positive. The normal source of a DC
electricity, is the dry cell or storage battery.
◦ Alternating Current (AC) – the AC electricity constantly reverses its direction of flow. It is generated by machine
called generator. This type of current is universally accepted because of its unlimited number of applications with
the following advantages.
DC & AC Electricity
Advantages of AC
◦ It is easily produced
◦ It is cheaper to maintain
◦ It could be transformed into higher voltage
◦ It could be distributed to far distance with low voltage drop
◦ It is more efficient compared with the direct current

Disadvantages of AC
◦ According to Thomas Edison, “The AC electricity is dangerous, because it involves high voltage transmission line.” because the
current or voltage that changes in strength according to sine curve. It reverses its polarity on each alteration and reverses its
direction of flow for each alteration. The AC current goes through one positive loop and one negative loop to form one complete
cycle that is continuously repeated.
DC & AC Electricity
The number of times of AC complete its cycle of plus and minus loop occurred per second is called the Frequency of
alternating current, which is expressed in cycles per second normally referred to as Hertz (hz), named after H.R.
Hertz.

The frequency of the Direct Current is obviously zero Hertz. The voltage is constant and never changes in polarity.

Summary
◦ A circuit operating at increased voltage, has lower power, power voltage drop, and economically constructed for using smaller
copper wires. On transmission and distribution line, power loss is the most important problem to resolved. This is the main
reason why Alternating Current AC gained more favor and acceptance during the middle part of the 19th century. In the USA, an
ordinary hose current is described as 120V (60 hertz). In the Philippines we are using the 220V-240V.
◦ Thus plugging a US gadget or appliances may result to damage of the said property because we are using a higher voltage and
thus the wire of lower voltage products may be fried.
Comparison of DC & AC Electricity

Under the principle od Dc electricity, “Power” is the product of voltage and current, its unit is
called watts.

Under the principle of AC electricity, the product of volts and amperes is equal to the quantity
called volt-ampere (v.a) which is not the same as ‘watts’. To convert volt-ampere to watts or
power, a power factor (pf) is introduced.
 Resistance
The flow of current in a circuit is impede or resisted by friction between the walls of the wires, junctions and other
turns and offsets (such as transformer and other devices). This is called “Impedance”, the electrical term for Friction
in AC electricity.

In Dc circuit, this Impedance is called Resistance. However, both are expressed in the unit of measure called
“Ohms”.

The amount of current flowing, is proportioned with the pressure/voltage and inversely proportional with friction/
resistance or load. Thus,

1. The higher the voltage, the larger the current

2. The higher the resistance, the lower the current/voltage.

Ohms Law
In 1962, George Simon Ohm, a German scientist, discovered the relationship between current, voltage and
resistance now referred to as the Ohms Law, which states that:

“The higher the voltage, the larger the current, and the higher the resistance, the lower the current.”

The relationship between the current, voltage and resistance is represented in the following equation known as
Ohms Law:

I = Current (ampere)

V = Electromotive Force (volts)

R = Resistance (Ohms)
Parallel and Series Circuits
A circuit components can be arranged in several ways but with two fundamental types of connections; namely
◦ Series circuit
◦ Parallel circuit

In series connection, a single path exist for current flow, that is, the elements are arranged in a series one after the
other with no branches. Being a single path in a series arrangement, voltage and resistance, simply adds, thus:
◦ Voltage total 𝑉𝑇 = 𝑉1 + 𝑉2 + 𝑉3 + …. 𝑉𝑛
◦ Resistance 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑅1 + 𝑅2 + 𝑅3 + ….𝑅𝑛

Under a series arrangement where only one path of current is supplied the light, failure of any one of the bulbs will
cause a break in the circuit, cutting off the entire circuitry. Example for series circuit is a Christmas lights
Parallel and Series Circuits
The parallel circuit on the other hand is sometimes referred to as “multiple connections” where the loads placed
across the same voltage constituting a separate circuit.

Parallel circuitry is the standard arrangement for house wiring connections wherein lights constitute one parallel
groupings and the convenience wall outlets constitute the second parallel grouping.

The fundamental principle under this type of circuitry is that: “loads in parallel are additive for current and that each
has the same voltage imposed”.

When current rises instantly to a very high level, the condition will constitute a “short circuit”. Hence it is mandatory
for all circuitry to be protected by fuse or circuit breaker that will automatically open and disable the line in case of a
fault or short circuit.
Power and Energy
Power and Energy is too frequently interchangeably used.

Power is the technical term for the common word work. Work (Energy), is the product of power and time.

Power is the rate at which the energy is used or alternatively, the rate at which work is done. Since energy and power
is synonymous, power implies continuity. That is, the use of energy at particular rate over a given span of time. The
concept of power involves time at the rate at which work is done.

In electrical terms, energy is synonymous with fuel. It is associated with work. Energy can be expressed in gallons,
liters, barrels, coal, kilowatt hour or consumed electricity and cost operation. In technical terms, energy is expressed
in units of BTU (calories), foot pounds (Joules) or kilowatt hour.
Volt Transformation
Transformer is a simple static device consisting of magnetic core wherein the primary and secondary windings are
made. The voltage is directly proportional to the number of windings or turns. Thus, if a 120 AC will be connected to
the left side containing 100 turns, 240 volts would be on the right side containing 200 turns.

The input side is classified as the primary while the output side is classified as the secondary. Under this condition,
the transformer is said to be 120/240 volts step up transformer with 120 primary and 240 volts secondary.

The same transformer could be used as a step down transformer by reversing the supply and the load. The 240 volts
will be the primary and the 120 volts secondary. In short, transformer are reversible.
Voltage and Voltage Drop
Comparatively, in a series circuit – the current is the same throughout the system but the voltage differs. In a parallel
circuit – the voltage is the same but the current differs.

Take note that in parallel arrangement, all current loads cumulatively add. For instance, appliances and light loads
connected to a parallel circuit has the same voltage imposed, but each load draws a different current according to
its wattage rating.

Another important principle, “the sum of voltage drop around a circuit is equal to the supply voltage”. This principle is
important in a series circuit. On a parallel circuit, each item has the same voltage, which constitute a circuit by itself.

the voltage drop on wire carrying current is; the voltage drop in wire = carried current (resistance on wire)
Voltage and Voltage Drop
The power loss in the wire conductor can be calculated as the product of the voltage and the current. It is equal to
the components resistance multiplied to the current squared. This power loss is transformed into heat.

For instance, a 1200 watts appliance rating has a 10 amperes current flow on a 120 volts current supply, compared
to 5 amperes only on a 240 volts current supply.

Therefore, it is certain to say that bigger wire is required on a 120 volts than on a 240 volts current supply. It also
appears that a smaller diameter wire on a 240 volt supply ca safely carry more current in proportion to its weight
than a larger diameter wire on a 120 volts supply current. In effect, less copper (less expensive) is required to carry
o a higher voltage current supply,
- End lecture 1
Building Electrical System

Lecture 2 -
Electrical Hazards &
Protection Method
ENGINEERING UTILITIES 1
Building Electrical System
Lecture 2 - Electrical Hazards & Protection Method

➢Electrical Hazards

➢Types of Electrical Hazards

➢Electrical Protection Methods

Objectives
Lesson objectives:

1. Identify major electrical hazards

2. Describe types of electrical hazards
3. Describe electrical protection methods

Source: OSHA
Introduction

Related terms:
◦ Current – the movement of
electrical charge
◦ Resistance – opposition to current flow
◦ Voltage – a measurement of electrical force
◦ Conductors – substances, such as metals, that have little resistance to electricity
◦ Insulators – substances, such as dry wood, rubber, glass and Bakelite, that have high
resistance to electricity
◦ Grounding – a conductive connection to the earth which acts as a protective measure
Electrical Hazards

Serious injuries and death can be caused by electrical hazards such as arc flash, shocks, burns, falls, and fires. Source of graphics: OSHA
Electrical Hazards
BE SAFE:

Burns
Electrocution
Shock
Arc flash/arc blast
Fire
Explosions
Electrical Hazards
Burns:
Most common shock-related injury
Three types of electrical burns:
◦ Electrical
◦ Arc flash
◦ Thermal contact
Source:
OSHA
 Electrical Hazards
Electrocution:
Is fatal
Meaning: to kill with electrical shock
Results when a human is exposed to a lethal amount of electrical
energy

Shock:
Body becomes part of electrical circuit
Reflex response to passage of electric current through the body
Electrical Hazards
Arc Flash/Arc Blast

Arc flash
◦ Sudden release of electrical energy through air when a high-voltage gap exists and there
is a breakdown between conductors
◦ Gives off thermal radiation (heat) and bright, intense light that can cause burns
◦ Temperatures as high as 35,000°F

Arc blast – high-voltage arcs can also produce considerable pressure waves by rapidly
heating the air and creating a blast
Electrical Hazards
Fire:
Most result from problems with "fixed wiring”
Problems with cords, plugs, receptacles, and switches also cause electrical fires

Explosions:
Occur when electricity ignites explosive mixture of material in the air
Note:
◦ Electricity is source of these hazards
◦ All hazards are of equal importance
◦ Lesson focuses on eliminating electrical hazards
 Types of Electrical Hazards
Contact with overhead power lines:

Overhead and buried power lines carry extremely high voltage

Risks
◦ Electrocution (main risk)
◦ Burns and falls

Solution:
Cranes are not the only equipment that can reach overhead power lines.

Use of ladders or suspension in a man-basket under or near power lines are risks.
Source: NIOSH
 Types of Electrical Hazards
Contact with energized sources:

Live parts
◦ The major hazards
◦ Electrical shock and burns
◦ Electrical shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit

Severity and effects of an electrical shock depend on a number of factors

◦ Pathway through the body
Source:
◦ Amount of current OSHA

◦ Length of time of the exposure

◦ Whether skin is wet or dry
Types of Electrical Hazards
Damaged or bare wires
◦ Fault current may travel through a body, causing electrical burns or death, if
◦ Power supply is not grounded
◦ Path has been broken
◦ There are live parts or bare wires
◦ Extreme conditions and rough treatment can change electrical equipment from safe to hazardous

Water
◦ Great conductor
◦ Allows current to flow more easily in wet conditions and through wet skin
Types of Electrical Hazards
• Defective equipment or tools

These photos show examples of defective equipment/tools. Source of photos: OSHA

Types of Electrical Hazards
Improper repairs
Examples of incidents
◦ Ballast strap not replaced after repair = Electrocution of 11 year old boy
◦ Cutting off bleed resistor on capacitor= causes 370-volt shock
◦ Removing and leaving off terminal insulator on capacitor = causes 440-
volt shock

Improper use:
Extension and flexible cords
◦ Care
◦ Connection
◦ Capacity Source: TEEX SH 46F1-HT06
 Types of Electrical Hazards
◦ Capacity affected by
◦ Size of wire
◦ 14 gauge = 15 amps
◦ 12 gauge = 20 amps

◦ Length of the cord

◦ UL tag capacity
◦ In general any cord over 100 ft. requires one size larger
cord
(14 gauge to 12 gauge) Source: OSHA
Types of Electrical Hazards
Power strips: Source: UBATC

◦ Can be over loaded

because of multiple
plug arrangement
◦ Most have overload protection
but often malfunction causing fire
◦ Use fixed wiring when possible
 (1,000 milliamperes = 1 amp; therefore, 15,000 milliamperes = 15 amp circuit)
Current Reaction
Below 1 milliampere Generally not perceptible
1 milliampere Faint tingle
5 milliampere Slight shock felt; not painful but disturbing. Average
individual can let go. Strong involuntary reactions can lead

Chart 6-25 milliamperes (women)

to other injuries
Painful shock, loss of muscular control
9-30 milliamperes (men) The freezing current or “let-go” range. Individual cannot let
go, but can be thrown away from the circuit if extensor
muscles are stimulated.
50-150 milliampres Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular
contractions. Death is possible.
1,000-4,300 milliamperes Rhythmic pumping action of the heart ceases. Muscular
contraction and nerve damage occur; death likely
10,000 milliamperes Cardiac arrest, severe burns; death probable

This table shows the body’s reaction when exposed to various levels of current. Source: OSHA
Electrical Protection Methods
Maintain safe distance from overhead power lines:

Staying away

Following table shows the safe power line clearance distance

for various line voltages.

https://youtu.be/Y2MwX738e1Y
Source of graphics: OSHA
 Electrical Protection Methods
Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI):
Designed to protect people from electrical shock

Detects ground faults and interrupts electric current

Limits duration of electrical shock

Three types of GFCI:

1. Receptacle GFCI

2. Temporary/portable GFCI Source: OSHA

3. Circuit Breaker GFCI

Electrical Protection Methods
➢Use power tools and equipment as designed:

1. Follow tool safety tips to avoid misusing equipment

2. Follow manufacturer’s instructions

➢Inspect portable tools and extension cords:

1. Workers need to inspect extension cords prior to their use for any cuts or abrasion.

2. Electric hand tools that are old, damaged, or misused may have damaged insulation inside.
 Electrical Protection Methods
➢Power source identification:

•Mark all breakers accordingly for the circuits they protect

•Mark all disconnect means accordingly for the equipment they service

•Identify all voltages with proper labeling

➢Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures:

•Essential safety procedure

•Protects workers from injury while working on or near electrical circuits and equipment
Source: OSHA

•Prevents contact with operating equipment parts such as, blades, gears, shafts, etc.
Electrical Protection Methods
Don’t use in wet/damp environments.

Keep working areas well lit.

Ensure that cords do not cause a tripping hazard.

Remove damaged tools from use.

Use double-insulated tools.

- End lecture 2