COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING

MATERIALS
Install Electrical Protective system
Terms and Definitions

1. Air Circuit Breaker –Breaker in which all parts operate in air.

2. Amperage Rating –Maximum current-carrying capacity of a device.

3. Blade-type Cartridge Fuse –Fuse with flat contact blades on cylindrical case.

4. Circuit breaker –Automatic over-current device that trips on overloads or shorts and
is resettable.

5. Current-limiting Over current Protective device –Device that, when interrupting

current in its current-limiting range, reduces the short-circuit current flowing in the
faulted circuit to substantially less than would otherwise flow into the fault.

6. Device –Electrical equipment that carries or transfers current but does not use it.

7. Dual-element Fuse –Fuse that has within it a thermal cutout element with a time
delay that permits momentary harmless inrush currents to flow without harming the
fuse.

8. Edison-base plug Fuse –Fuse with base that fits the same socket as a regular
based incandescent bulb.

9. Fault Current –Current that flows from one conductor to ground or another
conductor because of an abnormal connection or arc between the two.

10. Ferrule-type Cartridge Fuse –Fuse with a base metal caps on a cylindrical case.

11. Ground Fault –Accidental connection between an electrical circuit or equipment

and the earth or some conducting body that serves in place of the earth.

12. Ground-fault circuit-interrupter -Breaker or device designed to protect

individuals and equipment by deenergizing or tripping a circuit when current to ground
reaches some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the over-
current protective device of the supply circuit.

13. Interrupting Rating –Maximum available short-circuit current that an over-current

device can safely interrupt without damage to itself.
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14. Oil Circuit Breaker –Load interrupter in which interrupting contacts operate
submerged in transformer oil.

15. Over-current Protection –Weak link in the circuit that limits the amperage to a
specified amount.

16. Overload –Larger than normal current flowing within the normal current paths.

17. Selective Coordination –The use of interrupting devices sized and installed so
that the one nearest the fault or overloaded machine will open before any of the larger
upstream devices open.

18. Short Circuit –Larger than normal current flowing outside the normal current path.

19. Single-element Fuse –Fuse that contains only one element and is not designed
to carry an overload.

20. Time Current Curve –Plotted curve showing how long a fuse or breaker will carry
an overload before opening the circuit.

21. Type “S” Plug Fuse –Fuse with special size-limiting characteristics for each
amperage rating.

22. Voltage Rating –Maximum voltage at which a device is designed to operate.

23. Cabinet –An enclosure designed either for surface or flush mounting and provided
with a frame, mat, or trim in which a swinging door or doors are on may be hung.

24. Concentric Knockout –Several removable metal rings that allow for the entrance
of various standard sizes of connectors into a cabinet.

25. Dead Front –Removable cover used to prevent exposure of live parts to persons
on the operating side of the equipment.
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26. Disconnecting Means –A device or group of devices, or other means, by which

the conductors of a circuit can be disconnected from their source of supply.

27. Dustproof –So constructed or protected that dust will not interfere with its
successful operation.

28. Dust-tight –So constructed that dust will not enter the enclosing case.

29. Eccentric Knockout –knockout that is removed in sections to form to the larger
holes.

30. NEMA (National Manufacturer’s Association) –Organization responsible for

setting specifications for various classes of enclosures.
31. Rain Tight –So constructed or protected that exposure to a beating rain will not
result in the entrance of water.

32. Rainproof -So constructed, protected, or treated as to prevent rain from entering
with successful operation of the apparatus.

33. Lug –Used for termination of conductors.

34. Grounded (neutral) Bar –Used for termination of circuit grounded conductors.

35. Grounding Bar - Used for termination of equipment grounding conductors.

36. Flush Locks –Used for locking of cabinet doors to allow entrance of qualified
personnel only.

37. Padlock Attachment –Used to lock breakers in the “off” or “on” position.

38. Closure Plate –Used to fill empty breaker spaces where “breakout” has been
removed.
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39. Lock Off –Used to lock breakers in the “off” position for equipment maintenance or
servicing.

40. Handle Tie –Used to mechanically tie two or more breaker handles together to
assure common tripping.

41. Conduit Hubs –Used to allow entrance of conduits to rainproof enclosures.

Information Sheet 4.1.1

The Advantages of the Circuit Breaker over the Fuse:

1. The circuit breaker act as a switch aside from its being an over current protective
device.
2. When there is over current, the circuit breaker trips (cut) automatically and after
correcting the fault, it becomes readily available for switch on. Unlike the fuses
which has to be discarded and replace after it is busted.
3. Circuit breaker can be multiple poles and can be installed with 1, 2, or 3 poles,
which will simultaneously protect and switch one to three lines. The fuse on the
other hand, is a single pole put into a single wire and can protect only one single
electric line.
4. Circuit breaker position is easier to detect. It is closed, tripped or open right at
the handle.
5. The fuse on the other hand, is not easily detected because the melted fusible
element is inside the fuse casing.
6. Circuit breaker can be manually tripped so that in many cases it also acts as the
circuit switch.

Information sheet 4.1.2

Functions of Fuses and Circuit Breakers in Electrical Circuits:

1. It protects electrical circuits from damage by too much current;

2. Serves as protection of conductors;
1. Serves as protection of electrical loads/equipment;
2. Serves as current limiter to the circuit;
3. Acts as safety valve for electrical circuits;
4. Serves as disconnecting means
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Information sheet 4.1.3

Principles and Operation of Fuses

A fuse is basically a short length of metal ribbon made of alloy with a low melting point,
and of a size that will carry a specified current indefinitely, but which will melt when a
larger current flow, due to overload or short circuit. When the ribbon inside the fuse
melts, the fuse is said to “blow”. When it blows, the circuit is open, just as if a wire had
been cut, or a switch opened, at the fuse location.

Information Sheet 4.1.4

Principles and Operation of Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers operate using one or both of two principles. They are:

1. Thermal operation relies on the extra heat produced by high current warming a
bimetal strip, which bends to strip the operating contacts.
2. Magnetic operation is due to the magnetic field set up by a coil carrying the
current, which attracts an iron part to trip the breaker when the current becomes
large enough.

Two Types of circuit Breaker and their Operating principle

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Self check 4.1:

Directions: Answer the following questions by writing your answers in a sheet of pad
paper.

TEST I: Identification.

1.__________ The Automatic over-current device that trips on overloads or shorts and
is resettable.
2.__________ The Electrical equipment that carries or transfers current but does not
use it.
3.__________ The Current that flows from one conductor to ground or another
conductor because of an abnormal connection or arc between the two.
4.__________ The Weak link in the circuit that limits the amperage to a specified
amount.
5.__________ Larger than normal current flowing within the normal current paths
6.__________ Larger than normal current flowing outside the normal current path.
7.__________ Maximum voltages at which a device is designed to operate.
8.__________ Maximum available short-circuit current that an over-current device can
safely interrupt without damage to itself.
9.__________ Several removable metal rings that allow for the entrance of various
standard sizes of connectors into a cabinet.
10._________ A device or group of devices, or other means, by which the conductors
of a circuit can be disconnected from their source of supply.

TEST II: Enumeration.

1. Enumerate at least four advantages of circuit breaker over a fuse.

2. Enumerate the functions of fuses and circuit breakers in electrical circuits.

TEST III: Essay.

1. Discuss the principle and operations of fuses.

2. Discuss the principle and operations of circuit breakers.
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Key Answer 4.1

TEST I: Identification.

1. Circuit breaker
2. Device
3. Fault current
4. Over-current protection
5. Overload
6. Short circuit
7. Voltage rating
8. Interrupting rating
9. Concentric knockout
10. Disconnecting means

TEST II: Enumeration.

1. Advantages of circuit breakers over fuses

 The circuit breaker act as a switch aside from its being an over current
protective device.
 When there is over current, the circuit breaker trips (cut) automatically and
after correcting the fault, it becomes readily available for switch on. Unlike
the fuses, which have to be discarded and replace after it, is busted.
 Circuit breaker can be multiple poles and can be installed with 1, 2, or 3
poles, which will simultaneously protect and switch one to three lines. The
fuse on the other hand, is a single pole put into a single wire and can protect
only one single electric line.
 Circuit breaker position is easier to detect. It is closed, tripped or open right
at the handle.
 The fuse on the other hand, is not easily detected because the melted fusible
element is inside the fuse casing.
 Circuit breaker can be manually tripped so that in many cases it also acts as
the circuit switch.

2. Functions of fuses and circuit breaker in electrical circuits

 It protects electrical circuits from damage by too much current;

 Serves as protection of conductors;
 Serves as protection of electrical loads/equipment;
 Serves as current limiter to the circuit;
 Acts as safety valve for electrical circuits;
 Serves as disconnecting means.
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TEST III: Essay

1. Principle and operation of fuses.

A fuse is basically a short length of metal ribbon made of alloy with a low melting
point, and of a size that will carry a specified current indefinitely, but which will melt
when a larger current flow, due to overload or short circuit. When the ribbon inside the
fuse melts, the fuse is said to “blow”. When it blows, the circuit is open, just as if a wire
had been cut, or a switch opened, at the fuse location.

2. Principle and operation of circuit breakers.

Circuit breakers operate using one or both of two principles. They are:

 Thermal operation relies on the extra heat produced by high current warming
a bimetal strip, which bends to strip the operating contacts.

 Magnetic operation is due to the magnetic field set up by a coil carrying the
current, which attracts an iron part to trip the breaker when the current
becomes large enough.
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Information Sheet 4.2.1

Standard Ampere rating of fuses and circuit breakers

Ratings Available for Fuse switches in both 250 and 600 volts

15 20 30 60 100 200 400 600

800 1200 1600 2000 2500 3000 5000 6000

Standard ampere Rating for Fuses and Nonadjustable circuit Breakers

15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 60 70 80
90 100 110 125 150 160 175 200 225 250 300
350 400 450 500 600 700 800 1000 1200 2000 2500
3000 4000 5000 6000

Information sheet 4.2.2

Circuiting guidelines

There are many ways of doing the circuitry but there is no optimum or perfect
way of doing it. There are certain guidelines promulgated by the National electrical
code (NEC) for flexible, economical and convenient layout: they are as follows:

1. The code requires sufficient circuitry to supply residential load of 30 watts per square
meter in buildings excluding porches, garages and basements.

2. The requirements of 30 watts per square meter works out to 80 sq. m. per 20 amps.
Circuit (2,400w) or 60 sq. m. for 15 amps. Circuit (1,800w).

3. Good practice suggests that a load should not exceed 1,600 watts for a 20 amp.
Circuit or 1,200 watts for 15 amp. Circuit, thus,
a) For a 15 amp. Circuit, -1,200w max. Load –40 sq. m. maximum area.
b) for a 20 amp. Circuit, -1,600 w. max. Load –53 sq. m. maximum area.

4. The NEC requires a minimum of 20 amp. Appliance circuit to feed all small appliance
outlets in the kitchen, pantry, dining and family room.

5. The general-purpose branch circuit should be 20 amps. Wired with no.12 AWG being
the minimum size of conductor wires for convenience outlet.
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6. Circuit load on a 15 amp. Circuit should be limited to the values given on table 3-2

7. As specified by the NEC, plug outlets (convenience receptacles) must be counted in

computing the load if it is not included in the load for general lighting circuit, thus, for 9
and 12 amperes loading on 15 amps. And 20 amps. Circuits respectively, we have:
a) 15 amp. Circuit 91.5 = 6 outlets.
b) 20 amp. Circuit 121.5 = 8 outlets.

8. Convenience receptacles should be planned properly so that failure of a single circuit

will not deprive the entire area of power supply. In terms of reliability of service, the
circuit must be alternate to provide each area part of the different circuits.

9. All kitchen outlets must be fed from at least two of these circuits.

10. The NEC further stipulates, “all receptacles are potential appliance and at least two
circuit should be supplied to serve them”.

11. Certain outlets in the room should be designed as appliance outlet such as:
a) All kitchen receptacles
b) Dining room receptacles
c) One in the living room

12.The NEC requires that at least one 20 amp. Circuit supplies the laundry outlets.

13. If air conditioner is anticipated, provide a separate for this appliance.

Information Sheet 4.2.3

Classifications/types of breakers according to mounting method

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1. Din rail type mounted circuit breakers

2. Bolt mounted type circuit breakers

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3. Plug-in type circuit breakers

The name of the circuit breaker is taken from the medium or manner of
extinguishing the arc produced when the circuit breaker’s contacts opened.
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1. Air blast type circuit breaker –uses dry and compressed air in
extinguishing the arc.
2. Air circuit breaker –interruption occurs in free air
3. Oil type circuit breaker –uses a special oil to extinguish the arc.
4. Gas type circuit breaker –uses SF6 (sulphur hexaflouride) gas to
extinguish the arc.
5. Vacuum type circuit breaker –uses vacuum container.

Circuit Breaker Features. In addition to the relatively simple thermal-

magnetic breakers described above, there are many other features available in
molded-case breakers:
1. Solid-State Tripping. With adjustable long-time, short-time, and
instantaneous trip points and adjustable time delays provides easily
adjustable precise settings and stable repeatability, facilitating
coordination with other over current protection in the system, so that
the device nearest the fault opens first.
2. High Interrupting Capacity. As serving agency system increase the
current available under fault conditions, it is important to select
properly rated equipment, including circuit breakers. Those capable
of interrupting more than 5,000 amperes are marked, up to 2,000 000
amperes.
3. Current-Limiting Breakers. These, which will interrupt within one-
half cycle, limiting the fault current that will flow to downstream
equipment, are made both with integral fuses and without fuses.
4. Ground Fault Interruption. This is built-in as an integral part of the
circuit breaker.
5. Remote Operation. Shunt trips are commonly used to open a circuit
breaker from a remote point or to open it automatically as in a ground-
fault protection system. Also available are motor operated breakers,
which can be opened and closed remotely.
6. 100% Rated. Limit the loading of a circuit breaker to 80% when the
load is continuous (3 h or more) unless listed for 100% loading will
be so marked. Two or more of these features may be combined in
one circuit breaker, depending on the requirements of the application.
Standard Ratings. Both fuses and breakers are available in standard ratings of
15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 125, 150, 175, and 200
amperes, and of course larger sizes (up to 6000 amp) for use where required.
Additional standard ratings for fuses only are 1, 3, 6, and 10 amperes, mainly for
the protection of small motor circuits.
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Determining Proper Rating of Over current Device. The fuse must

blow, or the breaker open, when the current flowing through it exceeds the
number of amperes that is safe for the wire in the circuit. The larger the wire, the
greater the number of amperes it van safety carry.
The code specifies the ampacity (the maximum number of amperes) that
can be safely carried by each size and type of wire. The ampacity of any size and
kind of copper or aluminum wire can be found in NEC. The ampacity of the wire
determines the maximum ampere rating of the fuse or the breaker that may be
used to protect the circuit.
These may aid you to memorize the ampacity of the smaller sizes of Type
TW copper wire usually used in residential and farm wiring.
These ampacities are:
No. 14 15 amp
No. 12 20 amp
No. 10 30 amp
No. 8 40 amp
No. 6 55 amp

The ampacities shown are for wires in conduit, in cable, or buried directly
in the earth. If installed in free air, the ampacities are higher. Strictly speaking,
the ampacity of No. 14, No. 12, and No. 10 is greater than shown above because
the figures given actually represent the maximum permitted over current
protection. The difference is significant only when applying derating factors for
continuous loads, for more than three conductors in a raceway, or for ambient
temperatures over 30 deg. (86 deg. F).

Important Ratings when Choosing Replacement Circuit Breakers

1. Rated voltage, Rated normal current –values used to designate it and

which is related to the operating conditions of the circuit breaker.
2. Rated breaking capacity –expressed in MVA as the product of the rated
breaking current in kilo-amperes and the corresponding rated voltage in
kV.
3. Rated frequency –frequency of the electrical system in which the circuit
breaker is to be connected.
4. Rated short time current –effective value of current in which the circuit
breaker must carry for a stated time. This requirement is needed since the
fault current, which has to be cleared by another circuit breaker, may have
to flow through it.
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Parts of a Breaker Load Center

Common Panel bus configuration (Fig. A-E)

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E. Three-phase MLO
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Information 4.2.4

Classification of fuses

Class H. Class H fuses, fig. 4 formerly was called NEC or code fuses. Most low cost,
common, standard nonrenewable one-time fuses are Class H fuses. Renewable- type
fuses also come under the Class H classification. Neither the interrupting rating nor
the notation Class H appears on the label of Class H fuse. This type of fuse is tested
by the Underwriters Laboratories on circuits that deliver 10,000 amperes ac. Class H
fuses is available with ratings ranging from 1 ampere to 600 amperes in both 250-
voltage and 600-volt ac types. Class H fuses is not current limiting.
A higher quality nonrenewable one-time fuse is also available, called a Class K5
fuse, which has 50, 000- ampere interrupting rating. It is easy to identify this better
grade of fuse because the Class K5 and its interrupting rating are marked on the label.
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Fig. 4 Class H cartridge fuse. Illustration shows renewable-type fuse in which

the blown link may be replaced.

Class K. Class K fuses is group into three categories: K1, K5, and K9 fig.5 A
through D. These fuses may be UL listed with interrupting ratings in RMS symmetrical
amperes in values of 50,000, 100,000, or 200,000 amperes. For each K rating UL has
assigned a maximum level of peak let-through current (Ip) and energy as given by I2t.
Class K fuses has varying degrees of current-limiting ability, depending upon the K
rating. Class K1 fuses has the greatest current-limiting ability and Class K9 fuses the
least current-limiting ability. Checks of various fuse manufacturers’ literatures reveal
that Class K9 fuses are no longer being manufactured. Class K fuses may be listed as
time delay fuses as well. In this case, UL requires that the fuses have a minimum time
of delay of 10 seconds at 500% of the rated current. Class K fuses is available in
ratings ranging from 1/10 ampere to 600 amperes at 250- or 600-volts ac. Class K
fuses has the same dimensions as Class H fuses.

Fig. 5 Class H, K5, K1, and RK5 Fuses

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Class J. Class J fuses are current limiting and are so marked, Fig. 6 A and B. They are listed
by UL with an interrupting rating of 200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes. Some have an
especial listing identified by the letters “SP,” and have an interrupting rating of 300,000 RMS
symmetrical amperes. Certain Class J fuses are also considered to be dual-element, time delay,
and are marked “time-delay”. Class J fuses is physically smaller than Class H fuses. Therefore,
when a fuse holder is installed to accept a Class J fuse, it will be impossible to install a Class H
fuse in the fuse holder. The Underwriters Laboratories has assigned maximum values of I2t
and Ip that are slightly less than those for Class K1 fuses. Both fast acting, current-limiting
Class J fuses are available in ratings ranging from 1 ampere to 600 volts ac.
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Fig. 6 Class J current limiting fuses.

Class L. Class L fuses, fig. 7 A. B, C, are listed by UL in sizes ranging from 601
amperes to 6000 amperes at 600 volts ac. These fuses have specified maximum
values of I2t and Ip. They are current-limiting fuses and have an interrupting rating of
200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes. These bolt-type fuses are used in bolted pressure
contact switches. Class L fuses are available in fast acting, current-limiting time and a
time-delay, current-limiting type. Both types of Class L meet UL requirements. Some
Class L fuses have a special interrupting rating of 300,000 symmetrical amperes. The
fuse’s label will indicate the part number followed by the letters “SP”.
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Fig. 7 Class L fuses. All Class L fuses are rated 600 volts. Listed is 601 to 6000
ampere rating. The smallest switch for Class L fuses is 800 amperes. Class L fuses
that have fuse elements rated at 600 amperes and less are available. These special
ampere-rated fuses are physically the same size as the 800-ampere size.

Class T. Class T fuses, fig. 8, are current-limiting fuses and are so marked. These
fuses are UL listed with an interrupting capacity of 200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes.
Class T fuses is physically smaller than Class H or Class J fuses. The configuration of
this type of fuse limits its use to fuse holders and switches that will reject all other types
of fuses.
Class T fuses rated 600 volts have electrical characteristics similar to those of
Class J fuses and are tested in similar manner by Underwriters Laboratories. Class T
fuses rated at 300 volts have lower peak let-through currents and I2t values than
comparable Class J fuses. Many series rated panel boards are listed by Underwriters
Laboratories with Class T mains. Because Class T fuses do not have lot of time delay,
they are sized according to the non-time delay fuse.
UL presently lists the 600-volts Class T fuses in sizes from 1 ampere to 800
amperes. UL lists the 300-volts Class T fuses in sizes from 1 ampere to 1,200
amperes. Common applications for Class T fuses for mains, feeders, and branch
circuits.
Class t 300-volt fuses may be used on 120/240-volt single-phase, 208/120-volt
three-phase four-wire wyes, and 240-volt three phase three wire delta systems. The
NEC permits 300-volts Class T fuses to be installed in single-phase line-to-neutral
circuits supplied from three-phase four-wire solidly grounded neutral systems where
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the line-to neutral voltage does not exceed 300 volts. The NEC does not permit the
use of 300-volt Class T fuses for line-to-line or line-to-line-to-line applications on
480/277-volt three-phase four wire wyes, 480-volt three-phase three-wire, and any of
the systems where Class T 300-volt fuses are permitted.

Fig. 8 Class T current-limiting, fast acting fuse; 200,000-ampere interrupting

rating. Links are made if silver. Has very little time delay. Good for the protection of
circuit breakers and on circuits that do not have high inrush loads (such as motors,
transformers). Size at 300% for motors and other high inrush loads.

Class G. Class G fuses, fig. 9, are cartridge fuses with small physical
dimensions. They are used in circuits of 300-volts or less to ground. Class G fuses
are available in sizes ranging from 0 ampere to 60 amperes and are UL listed at an
interrupting capacity of 100,000 RMS symmetrical amperes. To prevent overusing,
Class G fuses are size limiting within the four categories assigned to their ampere
ratings. Therefore, a fuse holder designed to accept a 15-ampere Type SC will not
accept a 20-ampere Type SC fuse; and a fuse holder designed to accept 20-ampere
Type SC fuse will no accept a 30-ampere Type SC fuse; and so on for the four
categories.
Class G fuses are current limiting. They may be used for the protection of
ballasts, electric heat, and similar loads. They are UL listed for branch circuit
protection.
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Fig. 9 Class G fuses.

Class R. Class R fuse is another recent development in the UL standards listing

for fuses. This fuse is nonrenewable cartridge type and has an interrupting rating of
200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes. The peak let-through current (Ip) and the total
clearing energy (I2t) values are specified for the individual case sizes. The values of
I2t and Ip are specified by UL based on short-circuit tests at 50,000, 100,000, and
200,000 amperes.
Class R fuses are divided into two subclasses: Class RK1 and Class RK5. The
Class RK! Fuse has characteristics similar to those of the Class K5 fuse. These fuses
must be marked either Class RK1 or RK5. In addition, they are marked to be current
limiting.
Some Class RK1 fuses have a special interrupting rating of 300,000 RMS
symmetrical amperes. The fuse’s label will indicate the part number followed by the
letters “SP”.
The ferrule-type Class R fuse has a rating range of 1/10 ampere to 60 amperes
and can be distinguished by the annular ring on one end of the case. The knife-blade
type Class R fuse has a rating range of 61amperes to 600 amperes and has a slot in
the blade on one end. When a fuse holder is designed to accept a Class R fuse, it will
be impossible to install standard Class H or Class K fuse. The requirements for
noninterchangeable cartridge fuses and fuse holders are covered in NEC. However,
the Class R fuse can be installed in older style fuse clips on existing installations. As
a result, the Class R may be called a one-way rejection fuse.
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Electrical equipment manufacturers will provide the necessary rejection-type

fuse holders in their equipment, which is then tested with a Class R fuse at short- circuit
current values such as 50,000, 100,000, or 200,000 amperes. Each piece of
equipment will be marked accordingly.

Fig. 10 Class R cartridge fuses (may be RK1 or RK5).

Class CC. Class CC fuses is primarily used for control circuit protection of motor
control circuits, ballasts, small transformers, and so on. They are UL listed as branch
circuit fuses. Class CC fuses is rated at 600-volts or less and has 200,000-ampere
interrupting rating in sizes from 1/10 ampere through 30 amperes. These fuses
measure 11/2” x 13/32” and can be recognized by a “button” on one end of the fuse.
This “button” is unique to Class CC fuses. When a fuse block or fuse holder that has
the matching Class CC rejection feature is installed, it is impossible to insert any other
1 ½” x 13/32” fuses. Only a class fuse will fit into these special fuse blocks and fuse
holders. A Class CC fuse can be installed in a standard fuse holder.

Fig. 11 Class CC fuse with rejection feature

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Information Sheet 4.2.5

Kind/Types of Fuses According to manner of operation

1. Dual-element, Time-delay Fuse

The dual-element, Time-delay fuse, Fig., provides a time delay in the low-
overload range to eliminate unnecessary opening of the circuit because of harmless
overloads. However, this type of fuse is extremely responsive in opening on short
circuits. This fuse has two fusible elements connected in series. Depending upon the
magnitude of the current flow, one element is designed to open when the current
reaches a value of approximately 500% of the fuse rating. The short-circuit element
opens when a short circuit or heavy overload occurs. That is, the element opens at
current values of approximately 500% or more of the fuse rating.

Fig. 1 Cutaway view of dual-element, time-delay fuse. On overloads, the spring-

loaded trigger assembly opens. On short circuits or heavy ground faults, the fuse
elements in the short-circuit section open. The fuse elements are generally made of
copper.

The thermal element is also designed to open at approximately 140 degrees

Celsius, as well as on damaging overloads. In addition, the thermal element will open
whenever a loose connection or a poor contact in the fuse holder causes heat to
develop. As a result, a true dual-element fuse also offers thermal protection to the
equipment in which it is installed

Dual-element fuses are suitable for use on motor circuits and other circuits
having high-inrush characteristics. This type of fuse can be used as well for mains,
feeders, sub feeders, and branch circuits. Dual-element fuses may be used to provide
back-up protection for circuit breakers, bus duct, and other circuit components that lack
an adequate interrupting rating, bracing, or withstand rating. (Dual-element time-delay
fuse will hold five times it’s rating for 10 seconds)
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2. Dual-element, Time-delay, current-limiting fuse

The dual-element, time-delay, current limiting fuse, Fig., operates in the same
manner as the standard dual-element, time-delay fuse. The only difference between
the fuses is that, this fuse has a faster response in the short-circuit range and thus
more current limiting. The short-circuit element in the current-limiting fuse can be silver
or copper surrounded by quartz sand arc-quenching filler. Silver-link fuses are more
current limiting than copper-link fuses.

Fig. 2 Cutaway view of a dual-element, time-delay, current limiting fuse. On

overloads, the spring-loaded trigger assembly opens. On short circuits or heavy ground
faults, the fuse elements in the short-circuit section open. The fuse elements are
generally made of silver.

3. Current-limiting fuse (Non-time delay)

The straight current-limiting fuse, Fig., has an extremely fast response in both
the low-overload and short-circuit ranges. When compared to other type of fuses, this
type of fuse has the lowest energy let-through values. Current limiting fuses are use to
provide better protection to mains, feeders, and sub feeders, circuit breakers, bus duct,
switchboards, and other circuit components that lack an adequate interrupting rating,
bracing, or withstand rating. Current-limiting fuse elements can be made of silver or
copper surrounded by quartz sand arc-quenching filler. Silver-link fuses are more
current limiting than copper-link fuses.

Fig. 3 Cutaway view of a current-limiting, fast acting, single-element fuses.

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A standard current-limiting fuse does not have spring-load or “loaded link”

overload assembly found in dual-element fuses.
To be classified as “current limiting”, the code states that when a fuse or breaker
is subjected to heavy (high magnitude) fault currents, the fuse or breaker must reduce
the fault current flowing into the circuit to a value less than the fault current that could
have flowed into the circuit had there been no fuse or breaker in the circuit.
When use on motor circuits, or other circuits having high current-inrush
characteristics, the current-limiting non-time delay fuses must be sized at a much
higher rating than actual load. That is, for motor with a full-load current rating of 10
amperes, a 30- or 40 ampere current-limiting fuse may be required to start the motor.
In this case, the fuse is considered to be the motor branch-circuit short-circuit
protection. (Non-time delay fuse will hold five times its rating for 1/4 to 2 seconds; not
ideal to loads which requires more than 2 seconds to accelerate)

Characteristics of Overload Currents:

1. They are greater than the normal current flow.

2. They are contained within the normal conducting current path.
3. If allowed to continue, they will cause overheating of the equipment, conductors,
and the insulation of the conductors.

Characteristics of Short-circuit and Ground – Fault

1. They flow “outside” of the normal current path.

2. They may be greater than the normal current flow.
3. They may be less than the normal current flow.

Advantages of Fuse Over Circuit Breaker

Despite the disadvantages of the fuse over the circuit breaker, fuse has also
some advantages over circuit breaker, namely:

1. One major advantage of the fuse over circuit breaker is reliability and
stability. The fuse can stay on its position for years and act when called
on to act as designed.

2. The cost of the fuse is very much lower than that of the circuit breaker.

3. Circuit breakers have several moving parts, which requires maintenance

and periodic testing to be in good condition.
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Parts of Fusible Load Center

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Types of over current Protective Devices

1. Edison-base plug fuse

2. Type “S” plug fuse (fustat)

3. Ferrule-type cartridge fuse (standard ampere are: 15, 20, 30, 40, 60)
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4. Blade-type cartridge fuse (standard ampacity start at 65A)

5. Circuit Breaker (standard ampacity start at 15A)

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Self check 4.2:

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Directions: Answer the following questions by writing your answers in a sheet of pad
paper.

TEST I: Enumeration.

1. Enumerate the standard ampere rating for fuses and nonadjustable circuit
breakers.
2. Enumerate the Classifications/types of breakers according to mounting
method.
3. Enumerate the different kinds of fuses according to manner of operation.
4. Enumerate the important ratings when replacing fuses.
5. Enumerate the important ratings when replacing circuit breakers.

TEST II: Essay.

1. What is the basis in identifying the number of circuit protection?

TEST III: Matching type.

TEST IV: Identification.

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1. Label the parts of the breaker load center illustrated below

2. Label the parts of the fuse load center illustrated below

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Key Answer 4.2

TEST I: Enumeration

1. Standard ampere Rating for Fuses and Nonadjustable circuit Breakers

15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 60 70 80
90 100 110 125 150 160 175 200 225 250 300
350 400 450 500 600 700 800 1000 1200 2000 2500
3000 4000 5000 6000

2. Classifications/types of breakers according to mounting method

 Din rail type mounted circuit breakers
 Bolt mounted type circuit breakers
 Plug-in type circuit breakers

3. Kinds of fuses according to manner of operation.

 Dual-element, time delay fuse
 Dual-element, time-delay, current limiting fuse
 Current limiting fuse (non-time delay)

4. The important ratings when replacing fuses.

 Voltage rating
 Ampere rating
 Interrupting capacity

5. Enumerate the important ratings when replacing circuit breakers.

 Rated voltage, rated normal current
 Rated breaking capacity
 Rated frequency
 Rated short time current

TEST II: Essay

1. What is the basis in identifying the number of circuit protection?

The number of circuit protection will depend on how much branch circuit
available in building going through the panel board.
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TEST III: Matching type.

1. a 2. f
3. i 4. b
5. g 6.d
7. e 8. h

TEST IV: Identification.

1. Parts of the breaker load center illustrated below

a. main breaker
b. grounded bar neutral
c. main circuit breaker
d. bus bar

2. Label the parts of the fuse load center illustrated below

a. grounded neutral bar
b. grounded bar
c. main fuse pullout
d. line lugs
e. plug fuse sockets
f. pull out
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Information Sheet 4.3.1

Planning and preparing for work

1. Obtain the technical working drawing (electrical plan) from the concerned personnel
(instructor) then examine the nature of the work. (See sample below.)

2. After taking the plan, you are list down the needed materials, PPE’s, tools and
equipment needed in performing the task.

3. Upon listing, used the requisition form for materials and the borrowers slip to secure
your materials, tools, equipment and PPE’s from the supply and tool room. (see
sample below)

4. After securing the needed materials, tools, equipment and PPE’s, ask your
instructor where to install the working plan.

5. Place your materials, tools, equipment, and PPE’s in the most convenient location
to ease installation. Ask your instructor if you could start the installation.

6. Start your installation upon confirming your instructor.

Information Sheet 4.3.2

PEC Provision for circuit protection

Conductors-Maximum ampacity and Size

a) General –Branch circuit conductors shall have an ampacity of not less than
the rating of the branch circuit and not less than the maximum load to be served. Cable
assemblies with neutral conductors smaller than the ungrounded conductors shall be
so marked.
b) Household ranges and cooking appliances –branch circuit conductors
supplying household ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter cooking units and other
household cooking appliances, shall have an ampacity not less than the rating of the
branch circuit and not less than the maximum load to be served. For ranges of 8 ¾
kW or more rating, the minimum branch circuit rating shall be 40 amperes.
c) Other loads –Branch circuit conductors supplying loads other than cooking
appliances as covered shall have an ampacity sufficient for the loads served and shall
not be smaller than 2.0 mm2.
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NEC Requirements to be observe by an electrician when installing plug fuses, fuse

holder, and adapters:

1. They shall not be used in circuits exceeding 125 volts between conductors,
except on systems having grounded neutral with no conductors having more
than 150 volts to ground. This situation in the 120/208-volt system in the
commercial building covered in this text, or in the case of 120/240-volt, single-
phase system.
2. They shall have ampere ratings of 0 to 30 amperes.
3. They shall have a hexagonal configuration for ratings of 15 amperes and below.
4. The screw shell must be connected to the load side of the circuit.
5. Edison-base plug fuses may be used only as replacements in existing
installations where there is no evidence of overusing or tampering.
6. All new installations shall use fuse holders requiring Type S plug fuses or fuse
holders with a type s adapter inserted to accept Type S fuses only.
7. Type S plug fuses are classified 0 to 15 amperes; 16 to 20 amperes; 21 to 30
amperes.

Operation Sheet 4.3.3

Procedures in Installing Safety Switch

1. Determine exact installation location based on the plan provided.

2. Install a mounting screw for the top mounting hole.
3. Hang switch box/panel board. (Note: the hole in the upper middle back of the
housing should slip over the screw head.)
4. Level the box. (Use spirit level)
5. Locate holes for the remaining two mounting screws.
6. Install the lower two mounting screws. (Note: be sure that the box is leveled
horizontally and vertically).
7. Open the desired knockout holes in top and bottom of switch housing.
8. Install conduit connector/adapter in each knockout hole.
9. Cut wire entries at about 12” allowance.
10. Strip back one end of each piece of wire about 5/8 inch.
11. Install the feeder through the conduit connector in the top of the switch housing,
and connect to terminals on the line side.
12. Firmly tighten terminals to manufacturer’s torque specifications. (Caution: Loose
connection is a chief cause of electrical problems.)
13. Install wires through the conduit connector in the bottom of the switch housing,
and connect to load side terminals. (Note: install the wire neatly, taking care to prevent
the wires from rubbing against any metal edge.)
14. Firmly tighten terminals according to manufacture’s torque specifications.
15. Determine length of ground wire by measuring from top of box to ground terminal.
16. Cut a piece of wire to the measured length.
17. Strip backs the lower end of the ground wire; install in the ground terminal and
tighten.
18. Install ground wire through bottom hole in switch housing.
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19. Form the ground wire neatly so that it will not touch any moving part of the switch.
20. Strip back upper end of ground wire; install ground wire in switch terminal and
tighten.
21. Insert the fuses into the fuse clip. (Note: fuse clips must fit tightly on each fuse.
22. If finished, clean your work area, and return equipment, tools and materials to
proper storage.

Procedures in Installing Load center or breaker panel

1. Before mounting panel, open the desired number and size of knockout holes for the
conduit entry.
2. Install the desired size of conduit connector and tighten snugly.
3. Mount panel board in designated location.
4. Connect one piece of bare ground wire to the ground bar, allowing other end to
hang from bottom of panel. (Note: under actual installation, the lower end of the
ground wire would terminate at the grounding electrode.)
5. Strip back one end of each piece of insulated wire approximately 5/8-3/4”.
6. Install one piece of wire through the connector to the neutral bar connector; arrange
the wire neatly to lay back corner of the panel; then insert wire in neutral bar terminal
and tighten snugly. (Note: the neutral conductor should lay in the back corner of the
panel to leave adequate room for the other wires and breakers. It should also be
identified by white or gray tape.)
7. Install the remaining two wires through the connector, and insert wires in the main
breaker connectors.
8. Plug the breakers into the panel bus, plug breakers on both right and left side, start
at the top specifications. The main breaker should be placed on the upper most left
side of the panel board. (Note: arrange wire neatly, allowing room for the branch-
circuit conductors.)
9. Install wiring. (Note: extend all wires into the panel far enough to reach the neutral
or ground bar, especially the green wire after arranging it in the back corner of panel
down to the bar.)
10. Tag or mark by numbers each group of wires that goes to a specific breaker.
11. Fold back out of the way all branch circuit wires inside the panel to provide clear
working space inside panel.
12.Trim out panel board.
a.) Work the green wires one at a time, arranging them against back of panel
in corners and making right angle bends to the ground bar terminals.
b.) Cut strip, and insert wires into terminals; tighten snugly. (Note: this method
places this group of wires in the back of the panel, out of the way of neutral and circuit
wires; also, it gives the technician an organized procedure for doing the work neatly.)
c.) Work the white neutral wires one at a time, laying the wires near the green
wires in the back spaces and corners of the panel and making bends to the neutral or
ground bar.
d.) Cut, strip, and insert wires into terminals; tighten snugly.

e.) Work the colored circuit wires.

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 Work the wires one at a time to the left two-pole breaker, forming the
wire to lay neatly toward the back and side of panel; make right angle
bends to bring wire horizontally toward proper breaker terminal; make
additional right angle bends to bring wires outward and then into
breaker.

Note: this procedure makes it easy to trace wires, provides enough wire length
to pull out and check loads with a clamp-on ammeter, and produces a neat,
professional-looking good.

13. Carefully dismantle the assembly and store parts in proper places.
14.Clean work area, and return equipment, tools and materials to proper storage.

Operation Sheet 4.3.4

Installing wire receptacle circuit to a load center

1. Mark and layout boxes according to working drawing. (Note: Be sure to check the
NEC for installation of cable.

2. Mount device boxes for ½” sheetrock.

3. Mount load center for flush installation.
4. Drill studs according to cable layout, PEC and NEC.
5. Route cable through studs, and support properly.
6. Install conduit connector in the bottom of load center and install cable. (See figure
below)
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7. Strip cables in the boxes. (Note: be sure that at least 6” of conductor leaves the
face of the box.
8. In boxes 1 and 2, twist grounds together and install a green wire nut, leaving enough
pigtails to terminate on receptacle grounding terminal.
9. Strip ½” of insulation from neutral (white) conductors and twist in a 6” pigtail; install
a red wire nut over joint.
10. Terminate all conductors according to instructor’s demonstration. (Note: methods
may vary due to local codes.)

11. Install conduit connector in top of load center and terminate to 10/3 with ground
as the feeded conductors.
12. Double check to make sure all terminations are tight.
13. Clean work area, and return equipment and materials to proper storage.
14. Upon completion of work, have your instructor evaluate your work.
15. Carefully dismantle the assembly and store parts in proper places.

Information Sheet 4.3.5

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Information Sheet 4.3.5

Preparing a written Report

Paragraph Development by Description

Paragraph development by description is the representation of an image or
impression in words designed to portray the appearances, nature of attributes of the
person or thing being discussed. It may be objective (factual) or subjective (exposition
or narration as in creative writing).
In writing this development, you may adopt the following principles:
1. Define briefly the topic.
2. Give general view.
3. Discuss details in logical order
4. Analyze the parts
5. Summarize key features, bringing in comparisons

Standard Parts of the Letter

1. Heading letter and date –shows where the letter comes from and when it was
written.
2. Inside address –includes the name and address of the individual, group or
organization to whom you are writing, includes the courtesy title and name,
business or executive title and order of arrangement.
3. Salutation –is a friendly greeting that precedes the body of the letter.
4. Body –contains the whole message of the letter.
5. Complementary close –cordial ending after the body.
6. Signature area –signature of the writer above the typewritten name.
7. Reference initials –initials of the typist/encoder of the writer.

Self Check 4.3A.

Prepare a written report of work completion to your instructor. Follow the format above
when writing a report.
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Self-check 4.3B: Install Protection system (safety switch)

Instructions: When you are ready to perform this task, ask your instructor to observe the
procedure and rate your performance using the criteria below.

RATING SHEET

WORKMANSHIP ALLOTTED POINTS POINTS EARNED

1.Lighting circuit operation 10

2. Power circuit operation 10
3. Dimension 5
4. Horizontality and verticality 5
5. Fastening of fixtures 5
6. Bends and corner 10
7. Splices and joints 5
8. Wiring termination 5
9. Fastening of fuse 5
10. Techniques 10
11. Speed 10
12. Grounding 5
13. Entries 5
14. Cleanliness of workplace 5
15. Wiring arrangement 5

REMARKS: 100
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