Electrical Equipment

Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Comparing HID and LED Lighting

Whether you work in the electrical field, or are an at home do-it-yourselfer, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with different types of lighting. If you are looking to light up a large area, your choices are pretty much limited to HID or LED lighting. In this article, we will explore the differences between the two types of lighting and see which one might be the best choice for certain applications. HID Lighting Let’s first look at how HID lighting works. Whereas most light bulbs have a filament, HID light bulbs have a capsule of gas. The light

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Electrical Supply: What is a Fast-Acting Fuse?

Fuses work to protect us from electrical faults that could start fires in our homes. If they detect there is too much current running through an electrical device, they block the currents by shorting out. There are different kinds of fuses which can be used in various electrical applications. While a slow blow fuse can withstand high current for short amounts of time, fast-acting fuses will burst immediately when high power voltage passes through it. This article will take a look at some of the uses and applications of a fast acting fuse. How do Fuses Work? Wires get hot

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Electrical Supply: What Are Non-metallic Conduits?

An electrical conduit is a tube used to protect and route electrical wiring in a building or structure. It is generally installed by electricians at the site of installation of electrical equipment and its specifications are regulated by the US National Electrical Code (NEC). An electrical conduit is made of metal, plastic, fiber or fired clay. Most conduit is rigid, but it can be flexible as well.   While metallic conduits serve to shield sensitive circuits from electromagnetic interference from enclosed power cables, non-metallic conduits resist corrosion and are lightweight, reducing labor and installation costs. Read on to find out

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Electrical Supply: Power Drills

Power drills are used in various residential and commercial projects that require drilling of holes in surfaces such as wood, metal, plastic or cement.  Whether you work professionally in the electrical field or home improvement industry, a power drill can help you seamlessly complete a project. Types of Power Drills Pistol Grip: This the most common type of corded drill. It comes with a standard pistol grip and many attachments, making it versatile. Bits and attachments are available that can turn it into an orbital sander, a small hand saw or a boring device. Hammer Drill: Also called masonry drills,

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Electrical Supply: What is a Molded Case Circuit Breaker

Molded case circuit breaker is a protective device that used when load currents exceed the capabilities of miniature circuit breakers. It can also be used in applications of current ratings that require adjustable trip setting that is not available in plug-in circuit breakers or miniature circuit breakers. This article will serve to familiarize you with the functions of a molded case circuit breaker and things you should know if you are using one in your electrical application. What is a Molded Case Circuit Breaker and What Does it Do? Molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) offers electrical protection for a wide

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

How Do Carbon Monoxide Detectors Work?

Carbon monoxide detectors are very valuable for ensuring the safety of your home and family. Odorless and colorless, it is very difficult to tell when carbon monoxide is present. However, this deadly gas can find its way through your home through a number of seemingly harmless sources. When it does, it can cause unconsciousness within minutes, not to mention permanent damage. Find out more about carbon monoxide and the potential harm is can cause as well as what you can do to prevent poisoning with a carbon monoxide detector. What is Carbon Monoxide? Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless

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Electrical EquipmentElectrical SafetyElectricity 101

Reducing Fire-Caused Deaths with Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors have saved thousands of lives in the United States due to their increased use over the past few decades. Although laws may vary from state to state, fire alarms are required in most residences. However, while many homes do have smoke detectors, a lot of them do not function properly and are, therefore, useless. This article will review the need for smoke alarms in many homes as well as educating readers so that they can be used to their best advantage. Smoke Detector Requirements Although the rules and regulations involving smoke alarm installation will vary from state to

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

Ways to Appropriately Clean Electronic Devices

Cleaning electronics is an important part of maintenance. Not only does it help them to function properly, it also controls the spread of germs that cause serious illnesses. Fun fact: your electronic devices can harbor anything from strep and Staphylococcus to cold and flu bacteria, MRSA, norovirus, and even fecal matter. They may even be worse than a public restroom! Let’s take a look at the proper ways on how you should properly clean electronic devices. How to Clean Electronic Devices Normal and Touch Screens Both normal and touch screens from televisions, tablets, mobile phones and laptops are so sensitive.

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Electrical EquipmentElectrical SafetyElectricity 101

Electrical Supply: What are Disconnect Switches?

Everyone is aware of the potential dangers of working with electricity. That is why there are many safety devices on the market that help with the safe operation of electrical equipment. Among these are disconnect switches. These work by rapidly disconnecting circuits from power supplies in the case of an emergency. Disconnect switches work in conjunction with circuit breakers that interrupt the flow of electricity along a circuit when the current exceeds the circuit’s capacity. Disconnect switches can work with AC or DC systems and are also available for single-phase and three-phase power. Applications for Disconnect Switches Disconnect switches are

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Electrical EquipmentElectricity 101

How Do GFCI Outlets Work?

GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are devices that protect people against electrical shocks. They shut off an electrical power circuit upon detecting an imbalance of current between the wires of the circuit or when the electricity flows along an unintended route, such as through water or a person. The Importance of GFCI Outlets What is the amount of electricity that can kill an adult person? Only 20 milliamps. Do you know the voltage at which a circuit breaker trips? Thousand times more than what can kill you! GFCI outlets are a lifesaver as they shut down a power circuit

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