Electrical Circuits and Components

Duration: 2.00 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This is a two-part course which covers the 2020 NEC Changes. Part One covers the changes in Articles 242 and 250 of the National Electrical Code®. The new article 242 contains the requirements for overvoltage, or surge, protection. Article 250 covers the grounding and bonding of systems and equipment. Notable changes include the creation of Article 242 and deletion of Article 280 and 285, a new section addressing the bonding of equipment on the line side of the service, specific requirements for aluminum conductors, limiting the role of rebar in the grounding electrode system, fixing an error about the sizing of bonding jumpers, reducing the identification requirements for equipment ground conductors, and providing relief for the sizing of equipment grounding conductors in certain applications.

Part Two covers the changes in Articles 300, 310, 311, 312, and 314 of the National Electrical Code®. Article 300 contains general requirements for wiring methods. Article 310 covers conductors rated 2,000V and less. New Article 311 covers conductors rated more than 2,000V. Article 312 covers cabinets, cutout boxes, and meter socket enclosures. Article 314 covers outlet, device, pull, and junction boxes; conduit bodies; fittings; and handhole enclosures. Notable changes include clarifying which fittings may be concealed, harmonizing building code and electrical code rules for stair enclosures, a complete rewrite of Article 310, a new article 311, specific rules for cable trays and enclosures used together, and major changes for boxes in the ceilings of dwelling units.

Learning Objectives

• Explain why Articles 280 and 285 were combined into Article 242
• Describe the evolution of Article 250 since 2008
• Identify some of the system grounding configurations that are allowed in the NEC
• Explain why Article 310 was rewritten and explain the new requirements for Article 311
• List the requirements for conductors entering enclosures from a cable tray
• Discuss the rules for equipment in panelboard cabinets

Duration: 0.50 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video, MobileReady

An electrical circuit is a conductive path through which electrical current can flow. In this interactive online course on Electrical Architecture, you’ll gain a knowledge of technical requirements on individual electric components, equipment, and entire electrical systems. Key principles covered in this course include switch circuit arrangements, dedicated vs. shared circuits, circuit voltages, heater contactors, and the basics of electrical wiring.

Learning Objectives

• List and describe the purpose of the key components that make up a circuit
• Describe different transformer types and define common transformer terminology, such as delta, wye, primary, and secondary
• Differentiate between “dedicated” and “shared” circuits
• Determine the purpose of conductors based on the color of the insulated jacket
• Determine the appropriate wire gauge based on the circuit amperage rating

Duration: 0.25 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

An electrical switch is any device used to interrupt the flow of electrons in a circuit. This course begins with an overview of switches, then describes several types of common switches, and ends with common switch contact designs.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module you will be able to:

• Describe the purpose of a switch
• Describe the difference between maintained and momentary switches
• List the two major categories of switch actuation
• Explain the term “normally open”
• Describe “poles” and “throws”
• Define a limit switch
• Describe a mercury switch
• Describe a relay

Duration: 0.50 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

A cell converts chemical energy into electrical energy. The basic cell consists of two electrodes of dissimilar metals that are electrically isolated from each other, an electrolyte, and separators. A chemical reaction inside the cell produces electrons. Electrons must flow from the negative electrode to the positive electrode for the chemical reaction to take place. Unless electrons are flowing, the chemical reaction does not take place. Once you connect a load, the reaction starts. This course discusses many different aspect of battery cells.

Learning Objectives

• Basic galvanic cells
• Checking a battery
• Recharging a lead acid battery
• Charging and discharging cycles
• Common batteries

Duration: 0.25 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course discusses multiple types of batteries and the theory of battery charging. It will cover the chemical action of charging, charging limitations, voltage and current sources, charge rates, and battery temperature.

Learning Objectives

• Types of batteries
• Chemical action of charging
• Charging limitations
• Voltage and current sources
• Charge rates
• Battery temperature

Duration: 0.25 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Electrical components are in many things we use on a daily basis, from lights, to computers, to electronic toothbrushes. Each of these devices includes one or more circuits. The basic components of a circuit are an energy source, a conducting material, and a load. In order for a circuit to be useful, it needs a method of control. This module will discuss circuits and how they can be controlled.

Learning Objectives

• List and describe the basic components of a circuit
• Differentiate between series and parallel circuits
• Explain the purpose of a switch
• Describe different types of switches

Duration: 0.25 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course covers the four parts of an electrical circuit, as well as the differences between common circuit types including series, parallel, and combination circuits. This course illustrates electrical power and how to calculate it. Finally, it discusses power rating and power conversion and efficiency.

Duration: 0.50 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

A relay is a simple electromechanical switch designed to turn circuits on and off. This course covers relay operation and construction, the advantages and disadvantages of solid state and reed relays, and what time-delay relays are and their function.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course explains the basic components of an electrical distribution system, its function, and typical monitoring and protective equipment in the system.

Learning Objectives

• List the basic components of an electrical distribution system.
• Explain the function of an emergency power system and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
• Describe operator responsibilities associated with electrical monitoring equipment, emergency power systems, and power outages.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

The components of an electrical or electronic circuit can be connected in many different ways. The two simplest of these are called series and parallel and occur very frequently. Components connected in series are connected along a single path, so the same current flows through all of the components. Components connected in parallel are connected so the same voltage is applied to each component. In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of series and parallel circuits as well as how to calculate current, voltage, and resistance in them.

Learning Objectives

• Define a series-parallel circuit.
• Calculate total resistance in a series-parallel circuit.
• Calculate branch currents in a series-parallel circuit.
• Calculate voltage drops in a series-parallel circuit.

Duration: 2.00 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video, MobileReady

This course is designed to familiarize participants with basic concepts associated with the production and distribution of electric power for use by process systems. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain, in general terms, how off-site power comes into a plant and how a plant can generate power on site for its own use. They should also be able to identify and explain the functions of the major components in an electrical distribution system. In addition, participants should be able to describe general hazards associated with these systems and explain how the possible effects of the hazards can be minimized.

Learning Objectives

• In general terms, explain how power comes into an industrial facility from an off-site source.
• List three sources of on-site power generation.
• Identify and explain the function of the major components in a typical electrical power distribution system.
• Identify general hazards associated with electrical distribution systems.
• Describe, in general terms, how to aid a victim of electrical shock.
• Describe, in general terms, how to extinguish an electrical fire.

Duration: 2.00 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Contactors and Relays is a course designed to familiarize participants with the operation and use of magnetic contactors and relays. After completing this course, participants should be able to describe the operating principles of magnetic contactors and relays, and explain how both types of devices are used in electrical systems. They should also be able to describe the components and operation of low-voltage remote control switching systems.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the operating principles of magnetic contactors.
• Explain how mechanical contactors operate.
• Describe the operating principles of contactors used as motor starters.
• Explain how a motor starter operates.
• Read wiring diagrams involving contactors.
• Describe the operation of contactors in lighting circuits.
• Read wiring diagrams involving lighting contactors.
• Select protective enclosures to match the surrounding environment.
• Describe the operating principles of relays.
• Explain the functions of control relays in electrical systems.
• Read wiring diagrams involving control relays.
• Explain how solid-state relays operate.
• Explain the functions of solid-state relays in electrical systems.
• Read wiring diagrams involving solid-state relays.
• Explain the functions of overload relays in motor circuits.
• Describe the operation of thermal overload relays.
• Troubleshoot contactor/relay problems.
• List the advantages of low-voltage remote control switching.
• Design and draw a wiring diagram of a simple remote control circuit.
• Explain the operation of a low-voltage remote control switching system.

Duration: 2.00 Hrs

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Circuit Breakers and Fuses is a course designed to familiarize participants with the use of overcurrent protective devices in electrical installations. After completing this course, participants should be able to describe hazards associated with faults and overloads, describe the operation and common types of circuit breakers and fuses, and describe basic procedures for troubleshooting problems with circuit breakers and fuses.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the following types of overcurrent: short circuit, ground fault, arc fault, and overload.
• Identify different types of overcurrent protective devices and describe appropriate uses for each type.
• Describe some general safety practices that are associated with the use of overcurrent protective devices.
• Describe the use of selective coordination of overcurrent protective devices in electrical systems.
• Describe the basic steps of the point-to-point method for calculating short-circuit currents.
• Describe the basic operation of a standard molded-case circuit breaker.
• Identify and describe the following types of circuit breakers: standard molded-case circuit breakers, multipole circuit breakers, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers, and current-limiting circuit breakers.
• Describe classifications, ratings, and labeling requirements for circuit breakers.
• Describe basic procedures involved in troubleshooting a standard molded-case circuit breaker.
• Describe the function and basic components of fuses.
• Describe the ratings that apply to fuses.
• Describe the basic components, markings, UL classes, and appropriate uses for single-element cartridge fuses and dual-element cartridge fuses.
• Identify the basic features and appropriate uses of Edison-base plug fuses.
• List some guidelines for sizing dual-element time-delay fuses and non-time delay fuses.
• Describe basic procedures for troubleshooting cartridge fuses.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video, MobileReady

The components of an electrical or electronic circuit can be connected in many different ways. The two simplest of these are called series and parallel and occur very frequently. Components connected in parallel are connected so the same voltage is applied to each component. In this course, participants will learn about the fundamentals of parallel circuits as well as how to calculate current, voltage, and resistance in them.

Learning Objectives

• Define a parallel circuit.
• State the relationship between current and voltage in a parallel circuit.
• Calculate total resistance in a parallel circuit.
• Calculate total current in a parallel circuit.
• Calculate voltage drops across each resistor in a parallel circuit.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

The components of an electrical or electronic circuit can be connected in many different ways. The two simplest of these are called series and parallel and occur very frequently. Components connected in series are connected along a single path, so the same current flows through all of the components. In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of series circuits as well as how to calculate current, voltage, and resistance in them.

Learning Objectives

• Define a series circuit.
• State the relationship between current and voltage in a series circuit.
• Calculate total resistance in a series circuit.
• Calculate total current in a series circuit.
• Calculate voltage drops across each resistor in a series circuit.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

A battery is a primary component of a substation or switchyard direct current (DC) control system. The function of the control system is to supply control power to operate critical devices such as protective relays, alarms and status indicators, supervisory and communications equipment, and switchgear operating circuits. This course describes the role of the battery in the DC control system, the components of a lead-acid battery, how a battery works, battery ratings, and general battery inspection steps.

Learning Objectives

• State the purpose of a battery.
• List the basic components of a lead-acid cell.
• Discuss the electrochemical action in a cell that is charging/discharging.
• Discuss the relationship of cell voltage, capacity, and specific gravity.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Capacitors are used to control and increase the amount of capacitance in electrical circuits. In this course, participants will learn about the principles, function, and construction of capacitors as well as how to calculate capacitance and RC time constants of circuits.

Learning Objectives

• Define capacitance.
• Describe the construction of a capacitor.
• Describe variables that affect capacitance.
• Given a circuit containing capacitors, calculate total capacitance for series and parallel circuits.
• Given a circuit containing capacitors and resistors, calculate the time constant of the circuit.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Conditions exist in any transmission and distribution system that result in power losses in the systems and equipment that deliver power and in the systems and equipment that use power. In order to compensate for these power losses, utilities often use devices such as capacitor banks and shunt reactors. This course covers the functions of substation capacitors and reactors as well as how they can be safely cleared, maintained, and tested.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the function of substation capacitor banks and reactors.
• Explain how to de-energize, isolate a capacitor bank, and test for dead.
• Describe how to remove capacitor and capacitor fuses.
• Describe how to test the integrity of internal resistors and insulators.
• Describe methods for checking the capacitance of capacitors and balance of a capacitor bank.
• Identify types of substation shunt reactors.
• Describe function and operation of a series reactor.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Running cables and conductors is an integral part of electrical maintenance. The topics covered in this course include how cables and conductors are classified, the factors that must be considered in selecting a conductor or cable for a particular application, and procedures for installing, splicing and terminating cables and conductors used in low-voltage applications.

Learning Objectives

• Define conductors and how they are constructed.
• Discuss how wire size and insulation type determine how conductors and cables are classified.
• Explain how ampacity and insulation voltage capacity determine conductor ratings.
• Identify factors to consider when selecting a conductor.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course will define series circuits and parallel circuits as well as series-parallel circuits. This course will also discuss resistance and current in each type of circuit.

Learning Objectives

• Define a series circuit.
• Describe a parallel circuit.
• Define a series-parallel circuit.
• Explain resistance and current in each type of circuit.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course focuses on three of the major components in an electrical system: unit transformers, switchyards, and substations. This course also describes how these components fit into an electrical system, how they operate, and how they are checked to make sure they continue to operate properly.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the two main oil cooling methods used for unit transformers.
• Identify the various protective devices used in unit transformers.
• Describe the two main types of switchyards used in electrical transmission systems.
• Identify components and power paths in a typical substation.
• Identify the main automatic controls used in substation operation.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Electrical power systems deliver electricity to customers and to the plant. This course teaches how electrical power systems deliver electricity to customers and how electrical power systems adjust voltage and current for more economical power delivery. It also shows how electrical power systems deliver electricity to plant equipment and how the station service system can help ensure a continuous flow of power to the plant in the event of certain equipment malfunctions. Finally, it describes the essential service system, which helps operators maintain control during an emergency.

Learning Objectives

• Describe how electrical power systems deliver electricity to customers.
• Describe how a station service system supplies electricity for plant equipment.
• Describe how a station service system distributes electricity to plant equipment.
• Identify the two main types of reserve power systems used by station service systems.
• Describe how essential service systems deliver power to plant equipment during a plant emergency.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

When a fault occurs, current increases and voltage decreases. The increased current causes excessive heating, which depending on where the fault occurs, can result in a fire or an explosion. If the fault is not quickly isolated, it can cause damage that may result in loss of service. Various types of control systems are used to detect and isolate faults with minimum disturbance. A key component of all of these control systems is the protective relay. This course examines the functions and operation of some types of protective relays.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the purpose of using electromagnetic relays.
• Identify four different elements that are used in electromagnetic relays.
• Identify five different functions that electromagnetic relays are used for.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course introduces participants to the basic components of various types of fuses, explains how fuses are rated and sized, and describes basic procedures for troubleshooting a cartridge fuse.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the functions, basic components, and ratings of fuses.
• Describe different types of fuses and the applications for which they are appropriate.
• Follow guidelines for sizing dual-element time-delay fuses and non-time-delay fuses.
• Describe basic procedures for troubleshooting cartridge fuses.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Normally, electric current is designed to flow through circuits at levels predetermined to be safe and return to the power source. Occasionally, conditions are created where the current amount or path is altered from the specified design. This course describes differences in the types of abnormal current flow that can occur within an electrical circuit because of the altered conditions and how ground fault circuit interrupters can protect against electrical shock.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the various circuit conditions.
• Describe the basic operation of a ground fault circuit interrupter.
• Identify applications for ground fault circuit interrupters.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Insulators, or nonconductors, are materials with electrons that are tightly bound to their atoms and require large amounts of energy to free them from the influence of the nucleus. Examples of insulators are rubber, plastics, glass, and dry wood. This course introduces participants to electrical insulators and their physical properties. In addition, it describes the various uses of insulators as well as some of the materials that are used as insulators.

Learning Objectives

• Define an electrical insulator.
• Describe the physical properties of an insulator.
• Identify uses of insulators.
• Describe some of the materials used as insulators.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

A motor branch circuit, or motor branch, is a circuit that provides power and protection for a motor. According to the National Electrical Code® (NEC®), a motor branch must have a means to disconnect the entire branch from its power supply and a means to protect the branch components from the potentially damaging effects of excessive current. How a motor branch functions and how the necessary protection is provided are the subjects of this course.

Learning Objectives

• Describe a typical motor branch circuit.
• State the functions of the following devices used in a motor branch circuit: safety switches, fuses, molded-case circuit breakers, and magnetic controllers.
• Describe the difference between low-impedance and high-impedance grounding systems.
• Describe typical preventive maintenance procedures for motor branch circuits.
• Describe the basic troubleshooting procedure.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course introduces participants to the function and atomic makeup of resistors, common materials used to construct resistors, and the typical styles used in everyday applications. In addition, participants will learn about three ways to rate resistors as well as the different ways to mark resistors.

Learning Objectives

• State the purpose of a resistor.
• Describe how a resistor limits current.
• Describe the atomic makeup of materials that are used in resistors.
• List how a resistor is rated in terms of resistance, tolerance, and wattage.
• Demonstrate the ability to read the value of a resistor by reading its color code or markings.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

Substations and switchyards contain various types of transformers. Among them are power transformers, current transformers, and potential transformers. Each of these types of transformers has unique features that distinguish it from the other types of transformers and from other substation and switchyard equipment. In this course, you will learn about these transformers as well as their connections and basic principles.

Learning Objectives

• List the essential parts of a simple transformer.
• Discuss the relationship between primary and secondary voltages and transformer turns ratio.
• Discuss the relationship between primary and secondary currents and transformer turns ratio.
• List common connection schemes for transformers.
• List the different types of transformers.

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Intermediate
Languages: English
Capability: Audio, Video

This course is designed to familiarize participants with basic concepts associated with the operation of transformers, circuit breakers, and various types of switches. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain the basic principles of transformer operation, identify some of the basic components of a transformer, and describe checks that are generally made during a transformer inspection. They should also be able to describe the general operation of a circuit breaker, explain how to reset a tripped circuit breaker and how to rack out a circuit breaker, and describe the basic operation of pushbutton switches and rotary switches.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the function of a transformer
• Describe, in general terms, how a transformer works
• Identify and describe some of the basic components of transformers
• Describe external visual checks that should be made when a transformer is inspected
• Describe the general operation of a circuit breaker
• List general steps associated with resetting a circuit breaker that has tripped
• List general steps associated with racking out a circuit breaker
• Describe the general function of a switch
• Explain how different types of pushbutton switches and rotary switches operate

Duration: 1.00 Hr

Course Level: Fundamental
Languages: English
Capability: MobileReady, Responsive

The use of electricity, especially at common line voltages, is inherently dangerous. When used haphazardly, electricity can lead to electrocution or fire. This danger is what led to the development of the National Electrical Code® (NEC®), and it is what keeps Underwriter”s Laboratories in business. The first real requirement of the NEC is that all work must be done ‘in a neat and workmanlike manner.’ This means that the installer must be alert, concerned, and well informed. It is critical that you, as the installer of potentially dangerous equipment, maintain a concern for the people who will be operating the systems you install.

This 1-hour interactive online course covers the basic rules of electricity and electronics. It contains enough detail to help you through almost any difficulty that faces you, short of playing electronic design engineer. It will also serve you well as a review text from time to time.

Learning Objectives

• Know the three primary forces in electricity
• Understand the importance of Ohm”s law in regards to working with electricity
• Be familiar with watts, reactance and resonance (as well as learn their accompanying formulas)
• Understand series circuits, parallel circuits, and series-parallel circuits
• Know the five basic abilities electronic circuits possess that normal electrical circuits do not
• Be familiar with how the following electrical components work: Tubes and Semiconductors, Diodes, Zener Diodes, Transistors, Silicon-Controlled Rectifiers, Triacs
• Understand how to install, work with and test electronic components and circuit boards

This course includes a multiple-choice quiz test at the end.