MODULE 2

COMPONENTS
OF AN ELECTRIC
CIRCUIT

65
Authors:
Components of an Electric Circuit – S.Golovina
Conductors and Insulators - S.Golovina
Electrical Apparatuses of a Circuit – M.Ohiyenko

66
 You will be able to:
1. name the components of an electric circuit;
2. distinguish between conductors, semiconductors and insulators;
3. explain the function and principle of operation of electrical apparatuses of an
electric circuit.
Essential competency: determine what measuring devices must be used for a
particular type of circuit.

Part 1
Components of an Electric Circuit

Types of electric circuit components

Starter

What objects do the pictures illustrate? Say what unites these objects.

Discuss the questions.

a. What is an electric circuit? What types of electric circuits are there?
b. What elements does any circuit consist of?

Reading

1. Read the text and tick the elements described in it.

on-off
wire ___________ __________
switch
earth
cell ___________ __________
(ground)

fuse ___________ battery __________

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 inductor
lamp __________
___________ (coil, or
(indicator) __________
solenoid)

capacitor or ___________ diode __________

resistor or ___________ voltmeter __________

Electrical circuit components

An electric circuit is a closed path for transmitting an electric current through the
medium of electrical and magnetic fields. Any circuit includes a number of elements which
perform different functions. Let’s have a closer look at some basic components of an
electric circuit.
A cell is a device used to power electrical circuits. _________________________.
The terminal marked negative is the source of electrons, that when connected to a
circuit delivers energy. We can take the example of a normal torch battery. A battery is a
combination of multiple cells. If we take a closer look at it, we can see positive and
negative marks. The same marks are present on the torch we put our batteries into.
A switch is a device that can break an electrical circuit by diverting the current
from one conductor to another conductor or an insulator.__________________________
__________________________________________________________________.
A light bulb (lamp) is a device that produces light from electricity ____________.
A resistor opposes the flow of current through it. For a linear circuit, Ohm’s law is
applicable, which states that voltage across the resistor is directly proportional to the
current flowing through it, the proportional constant being the resistance.
An inductor stores energy in form of the electromagnetic field.________________
A capacitor stores energy in the form of the electrostatic field. The voltage across a
capacitor is proportional to the charge.
Different measuring devices for measuring electrical values can be connected to the
circuit, for instance, ammeters, voltmeters, ohmmeters etc.

2 Some sentences in the text are missing. Put the sentences given below into the
right gap in the text.
1. They turn the electricity to light by sending current through a thin wire called
filament.
2. The voltage across this component is proportional to the rate of change of current
flowing through it. 3. It has two terminals; positive and negative. 4. These set of contacts
are termed as open and closed.

3 Answer the questions.

1) What is the basic difference between a cell and a battery? 2) What is the
main function of a switch? 3)What device produces light energy? 4) What is the principal
difference between a capacitor and an inductor? 5) What is used for opposition to the flow
of electric current?

Language Study

4 a) Match the words with their definitions.

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 a) any device for supplying heat, such as a hot-air blower, a
1-e 1. dc supply radiator

b) a machine that converts one form of energy into another,

2. diode especially mechanical energy into electrical energy

3.heater c) a connection to earth. It is also known as ground

d) is a long thin piece of metal that is used to fasten things

4. motor or to carry electric current
5. wire e) supplies electrical energy. Dc (direct current) always
flows in one direction
f) a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical
energy by means of the forces exerted on a current-carrying
6. earth coil placed in a magnetic field
g) is a two-terminal electronic component that conducts
7. fuse current primarily in one direction
h) a safety device that melts and breaks an electric circuit if
8. generator the current exceeds a safe level.

b) Ask and answer the questions using the model.

Model: What does “a dc supply” mean? –A dc supply delivers electrical energy.

5 a) Make your own definitions for the words below:

diode, ac supply, wire, generator, switch, battery, voltmeter.

b) Ask questions and compare your definitions.

6 Compete the sentences.

1. __________ deliver electric energy from the source of supply to the load.
2. A __________ converts electrical energy into mechanical one.
3. A ____________ changes current in the circuit.
4. ______ are used to protect the circuit.
5. _____________convert electrical energy into light.
6. Electricity is produced by generators, batteries or_________.
7. Air is heated by_______________.
8. I add a ___________to the circuit when it is necessary to detect the current.

Speaking

7 Work as partner A and partner B.

a) Write down the names of the elements next to their symbols.

b) Describe the elements you have to your partner and let him draw them.

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 Partner A
3.
1._________ 2.__________ __________

6.
4. _________ 5.__________
__________

Partner B

1._________ 2._________ 3._______________

4.________ 5.
__________ 6.____________

8 Cross an odd word out in each line. Explain your choice.

1) galvanometer ammeter rheostat voltmeter

2) heater generator electric bulb motor
3) generator cell battery inductor
4) fuse capacitor wire rheostat

9 Discuss and complete the table with appropriate components. Prove your choice.

conductors loads power sources additional components

Functions of main components

Starter

Look at the word snake. Circle 8 words connected with an electric circuit.
TRIYHIPCELLFGRAMMETERERWKMNCQIUCVRHEOSTAT
TERSWIREWVOLTMETERSEOTUJKLOETBULBF
RDGARESISTORFGSFHKJLFINDUCTORAOEUTPOTMCNGK

Select some elements from this word snake and draw a circuit. What elements are
there in your circuit? Will it operate?

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 Reading

10 Look at the scheme and say:

- what components form the circuit;
- what is wrong about the circuit.

11 Read the text and fill in the gaps with the suitable word from the box.
aluminium lamps conductors voltmeters
cells generators electric

The Main Components of an Electric Circuit

The main components of any circuit are devices that produce and utilize electric
energy. They are: 1) power sources 2) loads 3) connecting ____________ .
The most common power sources are electric generators, batteries and primary
_____. Electric ___________ convert mechanical energy into electric energy. The source
provides energy to the electrons, by setting up an electrical field which provides the
electromotive force.
Loads include electric heaters, electric motors, incandescent ________etc. Motors
convert ____energy into mechanical, incandescent lamps and heaters convert electric
energy into light and heat. Utilizing devices convert electric energy into thermal,
mechanical or chemical energy.
Electric power is delivered from power sources to loads by electric wires.
According to their material, wires can be _______________, copper, steel and others.
In addition to these three main components, electric circuits use different types of
switches, protection devices (relays and fuses), and meters (ammeters, _____________,
wattmetersetc).

12 Read the text and complete the mind map.

Conductors

13 Ask and answer the questions.

1. What elements does a circuit consist of?
2. What is the function of an electric source/a load?
3. What can be used as a load?
4. What are wire conductors used for?
5. What additional components of a circuit are there? Why are they called
additional?

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 Language Study

14 Match the words with their synonyms.

1) utilize a) change
2) convert b) carry
3) power source c) use
4) deliver d) power supply

15 Fill in the gaps.

1.Loads ________ electric energy. 2. Metallic conductors ___________ electric

current to loads. 3. The primary function of ______________is to convert electric current
from a source to the correct voltage, current, and frequency to power the load.4. An
electric heater _______________electrical energy into heat.

Speaking

16 Look at the scheme and complete the chart. Describe the functions of the
elements to your partner.

Main Additional
components components

Writing

17 Describe the main components of this circuit:

a) what main components this circuit has;
b) the function of each main component in this circuit.

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 Power sources

Starter

Look at the picture. Define the function of the ship. State how it differs from other types of
vessels.

Reading

18 Discuss how many generators are usually present on board a vessel. What does
the number of generators on board depend on?

19 Read the text and underline key words or word combinations.

Electrical power on board a ship

Electrical power on board ship is commonly generated at 440 V, 60 Hz (sometimes
380 V, 50 Hz). Ships with a very large electrical power demand will require generators that
operate at a high voltage (3.3kV, 6.6 kV or 11 kV) to limit the size of normal load current
and the prospective fault current. It’s worth mentioning that AC, 3 phase power is
preferred over DC as it gives more power for the same size. Also, the preference is given
to three phase (rather than single phase) as it draws more power and in the event of failure
of one phase, other 2 can still work.
Shipboard power is generated using a prime mover and an alternator working
together. The generators may be driven by a diesel engine, by a steam or gas turbine, or by
the main propulsion engine as a shaft generator. The type of prime mover is determined bу
the design of the ship and by economic factors.
The generator works on the principle that when a magnetic field around a conductor
varies, a current is induced in the conductor.

The generator consists of a stationary set of conductors wound in coils on an iron

core. This is known as the stator. A rotating magnet called the rotor turns inside this stator
producing magnetic field. This field cuts across the conductor, generating an induced EMF
or electro-magnetic force as the mechanical input causes the rotor to turn. The magnetic
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field is generated by induction (in a brushless alternator) and by a rotor winding energized
by dc through slip rings and brushes.
In case of the failure of the main power generation system on the ship, an
emergency power system or a standby system is also present. Emergency power can be
supplied by batteries or an emergency generator or even both systems can be used.

20 Rearrange the words to get questions.

1. three-phase power /is/over/single-phase/preferred?
2. a generator/can /driven/by /what/ be?
3. working/what/principle/of/ a generator/is/ the?
4. a/generated/how/the magnetic field/generator/is/in?
5. by/emergency power/supplied/what/be/can/an?

21 Ask and answer the questions from the ex.20.

Language Study

22 Match the words to their definitions.

1 prime mover a) an electromechanical device that allows the

transmission of power and electrical signals from a
2 propulsion (n.) stationary to a rotating structure
b) the power that moves something, especially in a
3 induce (v.) vehicle
c) to produce by induction
4 vary (v.) d) a machine that converts primary energy to
5 slip ring mechanical energy
e) change from one condition, form, state to another
6 winding f) material ( such as a wire) wound or coiled about an
object
1- , 2- , 3- , 4- , 5- , 6-

Speaking

23 Identify different sources of energy in the pictures below and describe them.

1. 2.

3. 4.

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 23 Make a plan about ship power sources. Describe the sources of power
according to the plan.

Additional circuit components

Starter

Look at the pictures and say 1) what components of the circuit are shown 2) what
they can measure.

1. 2.

Which measuring device is connected to this circuit? Why do you think so?

Reading

24 Read the conversation and answer the questions.

1) What measuring devices has Mike lost?

2) What measuring device has Peter seen?
3) Has Mike found a voltmeter or an ammeter on the table?
4) Could anybody else take Mike’s measuring instruments?
***
Mike: Hello, Peter! I can’t find my ammeter and my voltmeter. Have you seen
them?
Peter: Hello, Mike! I’ve seen either your ammeter or your voltmeter on the table
over there.
Mike: Oh, thanks a lot. I’ll go and search.
(a few minutes later )
Mike: I‘ve tried to find my measuring devices on the table, but there’s neither the
voltmeter, nor the ammeter.
Peter: I don’t know where exactly, Mike, but I’ve definitely seen one of them on
the table. I guess Chris or Andrew could take it.
Mike: Neither Chris nor Andrew came here today. Ok, I’ll go and search in another
place.

25 Read the conversation once more and underline neither …or, either …or.

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 Language Study

Grammar Spot
Conjunctions neither…nor, either …or.
1. Choose the proper italicized word and underline it.
“Neither … nor” is used in sentences in a negative/positive sense meaning "not this
one nor the other, not this nor that, not he nor she, etc.".
'Either … or' is used in sentences in a negative/positive sense meaning "one or the
other, this or that, he or she, etc."
Note: Neither… nor is used as negation. Be attentive and use only one negation.
He used neither an ohmmeter nor a galvanometer (right)
He didn’t use neither an ohmmeter nor a galvanometer (wrong)

26 Tick the correct sentence.

a. __Neither Electrical Engineer nor Chief Engineer kept watch yesterday.
__Neither Electrical Engineer nor Chief Engineer didn’t keep watch yesterday.
b. __Either voltmeters or multimeters can be used for measuring voltage.
__Either voltmeters or multimeters can’t be used for measuring voltage.
c. __Neither generators nor primary cells don’t utilize electric energy.
__Neither generators nor primary cells utilize electric energy.
d. __The sources of an electric energy are either batteries or generators.
__The sources of an electric energy are either batteries nor cells.
e. __Neither motor nor heater convert electric energy into light.
__Neither motor nor heater converts electric energy into light.
f. __Neither gold nor bronze are used for producing conducting wires.
__Neither gold nor bronze is used for producing conducting wires.

27 Write the sentences using neither… nor.

Model: Peter and Mike weren’t on the deck when I came.

Neither Peter nor Mike was on the deck when I came.

1) Heaters and incandescent lamps do not refer to the power sources.

__________________________________________________________________
2) Galvanometers and ammeters aren’t connected in parallel in the circuit.
__________________________________________________________________.
3) The Chief Engineer and the Second Engineer weren’t in the engine-room at 5
o’clock.
__________________________________________________________________.
4) A fuse isn’t a measuring device. A relay isn’t a measuring device too.
__________________________________________________________________.
5) He won’t use cells and batteries as a power source in this circuit.
__________________________________________________________________.

28 Choose neither …nor or either …or and fill in the gaps.

1. ___ Jim ___ Mike will help you with repair. They are both busy at the
moment.
2. This is my offer. You ___ take it ___ leave it.
3. When I measure current, I take ___ an ammeter ___ a multimeter.
4. The Chief Engineer believed ___ the 2nd Engineer ___ the Electrician. He
thought that both were lying.

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 5. I need ___ your help ___ your compassion. I can perfectly handle my
problems all alone.
6. ___ Charles ___ Bill will write the report. Just ask one of them.
7. ___ you return the money you had stolen ____ I'll call the Master.
8. My multimeter can read ___ voltage ____ current. It must be broken.
9. You can use ___ this computer ___ the other one. Someone must fix them
first.

Writing

29 a) Write what component can be used in the circuit in this situations using
either…or.
Model: You want to measure current. If we want to measure current, either an
ammeter or a multimeter can be used.

1. You want to measure current.

2. You need to measure voltage.
3. You want to protect your circuit from overcurrent.
4. You need to use some power source to supply a lamp.
5. You need to increase or decrease the resistance.

b) Make negative sentences using neither…nor.

Model: Neither voltmeter nor wattmeter is used to measure current in a circuit.

Description of electric circuits

Starter

Discuss the question:

Why is the person shocked but a bird is not shocked?

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 Reading /Writing

30 Read and find mistakes in the circuit descriptions. Correct the mistakes.

A series circuit is shown. An electrical

source with a voltage of V is applied to a circuit
consisting of two resistors connected in series
between points A and B.

a)
The circuit shows a resistor, R, connected
in series to a 12 V battery across a closed switch,
S.

b)
The diagram shows a complex electrical
circuit with two different resistors. V is the supply
voltage and R1,R2 and R3 are the resistors
connected to the source in parallel.

c)

31 Look at the diagrams below and answer the questions.

1) What does a diagram (scheme) show (illustrate)? What components does it

consist of?
2) How many resistors are there and how are they connected to the voltage source?
3) What type of circuit is it?

b)
a)

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 c)

32 Look at the scheme and write its description.

Exchange your descriptions with your partner and compare them.

Speaking

33 a) Draw your own scheme of an electric circuit.

b) Ask your partner to describe it.

34 Discuss the situation. Three identical light bulbs A, B and C are connected in an
electric circuit as shown in the diagram below.

1) How bright is bulb A compared to B and C?

2) How bright are the bulbs after switch (key) S has been opened?
3) How do the currents in bulbs A and B change when switch S is opened?

Writing

35 Group A Describe diagram A Group B. Describe diagram B.

Focus your attention on:

- type of circuit;
- components of a circuit;
- way of their connection.

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 _______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________

_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_____________________________
__

B
Part 2
Conductors and Insulators

The difference between conductors, insulators and semiconductors

Starter

Look at the picture and explain why these people feel safe.

“we’re safe under here – it’s a rubber tree”

Match the pictures with the names of chemical elements: 1) carbon, 2) copper, 3)
aluminum.

a) b) c)___________
______________ _____________ ___

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 Listening /Watching

1 Listen and repeat these international words.

electrode, dielectric, bronze, ceramics, graphite, asphalt, aluminum, diamond

2 Tick the objects that can conduct electricity.

_ eraser _ coin _ nail _ a piece of wood

Watch the video and check your ideas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBPbx3zMUwg

3 Watch the video and complete the sentences.

1. A metal wire is covered with ___________ material.
2. When we place a coin in the circuit, a ______ glows.
3. The materials which don’t allow the electric current to pass through them are
called _____________.
4. The materials which allow the electric current to pass through them are called
_________________.
5. Switches, ________ and plugs have conductors inside them, these conductors
and other parts of the appliances which come in contact with our body are covered with
insulators such as plastics and rubber.
6. Our ______ is a good conductor of electricity.

Language Study

4 Match the words with their definitions.

1. impurity a liquid into which a solid has been mixed and has dissolved

2. solution a grey chemical element that is found in rocks and sand and is
used in making computers and other electronic machines (symbol
Si)
3. semiconductor a pale yellow chemical element that exists in various physical
forms (symbol S)
4. silicon a bright yellow metal made from copper and zinc

5. sulphur the fact that a substance is dirty or lower in quality because it is

mixed with another substance, or something that causes this
6. conductivity a property of a material to conduct an electric current

7.brass a substance that allows some electricity to pass through it

Ask each other to give definitions of the words.

5 Unscramble the words.
usuprhl
arbss
niscoli
osoutnil
ndsectorumico
mityurpi
onvicdutycti
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 Watching

6 Watch the video and circle semiconductors. State why they are considered to be
semiconductors.
Germanium solution of salts graphite steel glass silicon

7 Work with your study partner. Distribute the words into 2 columns. Prove your
choice.
porcelain, silver, ceramics, gold, dry cotton, dry paper, rubber, bronze, water
with dissolved impurities, aluminum, copper, graphite, asphalt, water, steel, iron , air,
oil, dry wood
Insulators Conductors

8 Watch the video and check if you were right.

Speaking

9 Tell your partner about insulators and conductors using the prompts.

 An insulator is a substance …
 Examples of insulators are…
 A conductor is…
 There are such conductors as…
 The best conductors are…
 A semiconductor is…
 The examples of semiconductors are…

Properties of conductors and insulators

Starter
Work as partner A and partner B. Partner A, find the words connected with
conductors. Partner B, find the words connected with insulators. Explain how each word is
connected.

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 Reading

10 Discuss the questions.

1. What factors does insulation resistance depend on?
2. What material are ship conductors usually made of?

11 Read the text and check your guesses.

Ship wiring cables have to withstand a wide variety of environmental conditions

(temperature, humidity, salinity). Cables are constructed of conductors and cable
insulation. Conductors are of annealed stranded copper which may be circular or shaped.
Cable insulation has a thickness appropriate to the system voltage rating.
Actually, all electrical equipment has insulation. The purpose of the insulation is to
keep electric currents with a conductor and to prevent contact with live wires. The
electrical resistance of insulation must be very high to prevent current leaking away from
conductors. The insulation resistance includes the resistance of the insulation material and
also the resistance of any surface deposits of dirt, oil, moisture, etc. Surface deposits can
reduce the insulation resistance. Insulation materials are non-metallic and have very few of
the generally good physical properties associated with metals. Insulation is adversely
affected by many factors such as humidity, temperature, electrical and mechanical stress,
vibration, chemicals, oil, dirt and, of course, old age.

12 Paraphrase the sentences using the sentences from the text.

1.The insulation resistance can be decreased because of surface deposits.

2.The insulation resistance is designed for holding electric current within a conductor and to
protect operating personnel.

3. Ship cables should be strong and should be protected from different factors which can
damage them.

4.Metals can’t be used for making insulators because of their conducting properties.

5.Conductors are usually made of copper.

Language Study

Grammar Spot
Linking word although
Conjunction although is translated as «хоч; коли б навіть; не зважаючи на те, що».
After although we use Subject + Predicate:
• Although I lost my ammeter, I managed to measure current.
• I didn't get the job although I had all the necessary qualifications.

13 Join the sentences using although.

Model:
Mike didn’t wake up. The telephone rang many times.
Mike didn’t wake up although the telephone rang many times.

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 1) The Electrician didn’t repair the motor. He knew how to repair it.
__________________________________________________________________ .
2) He connected the elements in parallel. It was wrong.
__________________________________________________________________ .
3) The heater didn’t work. The Electrician repaired it yesterday.
__________________________________________________________________ .
4) The Electrician didn’t get hurt. He fell down from the ladder.
__________________________________________________________________.
5) The fuse was faulty. It was replaced by an Electrician a few days ago.
__________________________________________________________________

14 Complete the sentences.

a. Although the light was off___________________________________________.

b. The bulb was changed although ______________________________________.
c. Although the heater was broken_______________________________________.
d. The resistance was high although _____________________________________.
e. The elements were connected in series although__________________________.

Watching

15 Discuss the questions.

1. What materials can change and become conductors from insulators? When does
it happen?
2. What materials are the best conductors?
3. If we take 2 wires, which of them will be a better conductor: 1) a thick or a thin
wire? 2) a short or a long wire?

16 Listen and compare your answers.

Conductivity and resistivity of materials

Starter

Look at the pictures and answer the questions.

1. What do they have in common?
2. What’s the difference between them?

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 Reading

17 Skim the text and title it.

________________
According to their conductivity all materials are divided into conductors, insulators
and semiconductors.
Conductors are materials having a very high conductivity. The most common of
them are metals (copper, aluminium, steel and others), carbon and electrolytes.
According to their resistivity, conductors are divided into two groups; the first
includes materials with low resistivity: copper, aluminium and others. These metals are
used to produce wire conductors due to their high mechanical strength. The second group
includes materials with high resistivity; one of these is nichrome. Due to its good heat
resistance, nichrome is used to produce heaters.
Carbon is commonly used to produce electrodes and brushes for electric machines.
The unit of resistivity is the ohm * m. The table below gives the resistivity of some
materials.

Material Resistivity at 20°C, ohm · m

aluminium 0.029
bronze 0.021 – 0.4
copper 0.0175
nichrome 1.1
steel 0.13 - 0.25

Although insulators don’t allow electric current to pass, under certain conditions
dielectric materials can also become conductors.

18 Look at the information given in the table above and discuss it with your partner
using the model.
Model: Cadet A: What is the resistivity of bronze?
Cadet B: The resistivity of bronze is 0.021- 0.4 ohm*meter.
Cadet A: Has it high or low resistivity?
Cadet B: It has low resistivity.

19 Mark the statements as True (T) or False (F). Give your reasons.

1) According to their resistivity all the materials are divided into: conductors,
semiconductors, insulators.
true  false
2) The unit of resistivity is the ohm.
true  false
3) Conductors are materials having a very high conductivity.
true  false
4) The value of resistivity depends on its material.
true  false
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 5) The resistivity of nichrome is rather low.
true false
6) Copper is commonly used to produce heaters.
true false
7) Copper and aluminium are used to produce wire conductors due to their low
mechanical strength.
true false
8) Resistivity of conductors is measured in ohms.
true false

Language Study

20 Read the words with the definitions.

1. solid a substance that is not liquid or gas

2. insulator a substance that stops electricity from

passing through something
3. semiconductor a substance that allows some electricity to
pass through it
4. resistance the ability of something to stop the flow of
electricity
5. resistivity a measure of how strongly a material
opposes the flow of electric current
6. conductivity a property of a material to conduct an
electric current
7. graphite a form of carbon used in pencils.

21 Write English equivalents of the word-combinations in the text.

Низький питомий опір____________________________________________
Високий питомий опір____________________________________________
Завдяки високій механічній силі____________________________________
Завдяки доброму тепловому опіру___________________________________
Одиниця питомого опіру___________________________________________
Виробляти нагрівачі_______________________________________________

Speaking

22 Complete the conversation. Use the word-combinations from ex. 21.

Practise the conversation with your partner.

A: Does nichrome have high resistivity or ________________________________?

B: It has ___________________________________________________________.
A: Why is it used ___________________________________________________?
B: It is used ________________________________________________________.

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 Types of insulators and their properties
Starter

Do the quiz.
1 Why are electrical plugs made of plastic? 2 Which of these is a good electrical
a. Plastic is stronger than all other conductor?
materials a. Water
b. Plastic is a good electrical conductor b. Sweat
c. Plastic protects people from c. The human body
electricity d. All of the above
d. Only plastic can be made into the
right shape for a plug

3 Which of these is not an electrical 4 What do we call a material that has a

insulator? resistance of zero?
a. Wood a. Superconductor
b. Plastic b. Major conductor
c. Silver c. Minor insulator
d. Glass d. Semiconductor
e. Super insulator
5 What metal is the most commonly used 6 Which of the following is a good
conductor in electronic wiring and insulator?
electronic circuits? a. Paper
a. Silver b. Glass
b. Zinc c. Air
c. Lead d. All of the above
d. Platinum e. None of the Above
e. Copper

Reading

23 Discuss the questions.

What insulating materials are most widely used on the vessels?
Why are exactly these materials used?

24 Skim the text and match the titles a-e with the paragraphs 1-5.
a) liquid insulators ___
b) gaseous insulators____
c) types of insulators____
d) solid insulators ____
e) materials commonly used on the vessels_______
f) general information about insulators____
Insulators
1. Insulating materials have a very low conductivity. They offer extremely high
resistance to the flow of current. Insulators are used in electric devices to isolate
conductors. Thus they should have a high dielectric strength and a high resistivity. Their
mechanical properties are also important for practical use.
2. Insulators are divided into gaseous, liquid, and solid. They are also divided into
groups according to their heat resistance.
3. The main gaseous insulator is air. At 20ºC the dielectric strength of air is
extremely low; it is lower than the strength of most liquid and solid dielectrics.
4. Liquid insulators are mineral oils, synthetic liquids, resins, and others. Of them
mineral oils are used in oil transformers, cables and capacitors. In transformers, oil is used
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to insulate current-conducting parts. Thus it should have a high dielectric strength (10 to 20
MV/m). As to resins, at low temperatures they are amorphous. When heated, they become
first plastic, then liquid. Resins are the most important components of many plastics.
Commonly used in electrical engineering are synthetic (polymeric) resins-polyethylene and
PVC. Plastics including them are used as wire and cable insulation.
5. Solid insulators are the most commonly used insulating materials. They have a
high mechanical strength. Common solid insulators are paper, cloth, plastics, and
porcelain. Of them plastics are widely used in electrical engineering as insulating and
structural materials. As to porcelain, it is highly resistant to mechanical factors and heat.
Due to this property it is used to produce low- and high-voltage insulators.
6. Insulation materials used on ships include mica, glass fiber and more modern
materials such as PVC and other plastics and compounds. The majority of insulation
materials in common use cannot withstand temperatures much in excess of 100 degrees
Celsius. All marine electrical equipment is constructed and rated to work satisfactorily in a
maximum ambient air temperature of 45 degrees Celsius. It is therefore the insulation
material that dictates the maximum permitted operating temperature of the electrical
equipment. Insulation is classified according to the maximum temperature at which it is
safe to operate. Classes of insulation A, E, B and F are used in marine electrical equipment.
The maximum temperature for these classes are as follows:

*PVC -polyvinyl chloride

25 Disagree with the statements. Correct them.

Model:
Cadet A: Insulating materials have a very high conductivity.
Cadet B: Insulating materials don’t have a very high conductivity. They have a very
high resistivity.

a. Insulating materials have a very high conductivity.

b. Mineral oils are used to produce low and high-voltage insulators.
c. Porcelain is widely used in as a gaseous insulator.
d. Gaseous insulators have a high mechanical strength.
e. Conductors are divided into gaseous, liquid, and solid.
f. In transformers, oil is used to insulate capacitors.
g. Liquid insulators are the most commonly used insulating materials.
h. When resin is heated, it becomes amorphous.
i. Insulation materials mostly used on board are gaseous and liquid insulators.
j. The maximum temperature that insulation materials can withstand is about
50 degrees Celcsius.

88
 Language Study

26 Match the words with the definitions.

gaseous- adj. is a hard mineral which is found as small flat crystals in rocks.
mica – n. firm and stable in shape; not liquid or fluid.
solid – adj. offer strong resistance or opposition to.
withstand –v. having the form of or being gas
rated – adj. assigned standard value

27 Fill in the gaps with words from ex.26.

1. Insulation material should _____________ a certain value of current. 2. A

dielectric gas, also called as an insulating gas, is a dielectric material in ______________
state 3. The major uses of _______ are as electrical insulators in electronic equipment,
thermal insulation, dielectrics in capacitors, insulation in electric motors and generator
armatures, field coil insulation etc. 4. The examples of _________ insulators are paper,
plastics. 5. The __________ voltage can be also called the nominal voltage.

Speaking

28 Complete the sentences.

1. Insulators are materials…
2. Insulators offer …
3. Insulators have a high dielectric strength and .. .
4. Insulators are divided into …
5. The main gaseous insulator is …
6. Liquid insulators are …
7. The most commonly used are …
8. Solid insulators include…
9. The most common insulators on ships are…
10. There are such classes of insulation used on the vessels as…

29 a) Work in groups of three. Make a quiz about insulators. There should be not
less than 5 questions and 3 variants of answer in each question.

b) Take turns to question other groups. Assign points for each correct answer.

Insulation resistance

Starter

Look at the picture and say how you understand the word “futile”. Why is the
resistance futile in this circuit?

89
 Speaking

30 Decide if the sentences are true or false. Correct the false ones.

1. Insulation resistance is one of the critical readings of marine electrical equipment

systems and serves as the best guide to indicate the health of the electrical machinery.
2. Insulation resistance is not affected by time.
3. Because of harsh operating environments the electrical insulation is exposed to
extreme operating temperatures, moisture, and chemical contamination.
4. The equipment to be tested for insulation resistance is not disconnected from the
live power supply and the supply is not locked down .
5. On ships, the insulation resistance of all the motors, alternator and other
electrical machinery is checked every day and values are logged as a part of planned
maintenance system.
6. The insulation resistance of the machinery increases with increase in
temperature.

31 Complete the sentences with your own ideas.

1. The reasons for the increase in temperature may be due
to_________________________.
2. Insulation resistance shall be measured both in _________________________
conditions.
3. Measuring insulation resistance ______________________________________.
4. ____________________________ can affect the value of insulation resistance.

Language Study

Grammar Spot
DUE TO vs BECAUSE OF
Compare 2 sentences. What’s the difference between them?
1) There was a problem because of low insulation resistance.
2) A problem was due to low insulation resistance.
Read other examples. What have you noticed?
The port development is currently stalled because of Britain and China’s failure to agree on
a financing package. High winds formed because of unstable weather front.
The trouble was due to overheating. High winds were due to unstable weather.

"Due to"is put after the verb "to be”.

"Because of", as a rule, is used with other verbs.
"Due to" may have the meaning "завдяки( кому-чому)", as “because of” is translated
"через (кого-що), з-за, із-за (чого)".

32 Complete the sentences using due to or because of.

1) There was short circuit ______________overheating.

2) The voyage was delayed ______________ mechanical problems.
3) His success is __________ talent and hard work.
4) He resigned __________ a better job offer.
5) ___________ the delay in processing your order, we cannot deliver until Friday.

90
 33 Complete the story using due to or because of.

It had to be a usual day on board a ship. But everything went wrong that day. I
woke up early but ______________ heavy storm, I couldn’t get dressed. ____________
strong rolling I fell down a couple of times and bumped my head twice. The storm was
____________ a strong wind from the north. Finally, I managed to get dressed and even
managed to get to the door, but _________the Second Engineer, who entered the room at
the moment I was going to open the door, I fell down again but __________ the helmet I
didn’t get a serious injury. However, it wasn’t the end of the story. Later on that day
___________ big waves our Bosun broke his leg and it was ___________ me that there
was blackout . And, finally, loss of 2 tons of cargo was _________ the Master who had
drunk a lot the day before and couldn’t get out of his cabin __________the storm.

Speaking

34 a) Read the conversation and say:

1) why there was low insulation resistance;
2) what should be done to get correct readings of insulation resistance.
***
A: I’ve just tested the insulation resistance and the readings show that it’s too low.
B: Oh, really? Was the motor hot while measuring the insulation resistance?
A: Yes, it was. I know that it’s preferable to measure the insulation resistance when
the motor is hot.
B: Exactly! And have you found the cause of low insulation?
A: I suppose it’s the result of the absorption of moisture by the insulated windings.
B: Remove the moisture by drying out the equipment thoroughly.
A: Yes, sir. Thank you for advice.

b) Practise the conversation in pairs.

35 Discuss with your partner: 1) what can cause wire insulation breakdown 2)
what can be the result of it.
There are some key words: fuse, high voltage, short circuit, circuit breaker.

36 Discuss the situation.

The motor has stopped while starting. You assist the Electrical Engineer
in disassembling and examining it.

What is the cause of this trouble, to your mind? What would you do in this case?

37 Project work. Find additional information on the Internet and prepare a

presentation on:
Group A -the conductors used on board ships,
Group B - the insulators used on board ships.

91
 Part 3
Electrical Apparatuses of a Circuit

Application of electrical apparatuses

Starter

Answer the questions.

How long can electrical devices operate (a TV-set, a refrigerator)?

What facts influence on the duration of their operation?

Name the elements. Which of them are essential/main and non-essential/additional

in a circuit?

_______________ _______________ ______________ ______________

________________ _______________ _______________ ______________

Speaking

1 Read the definitions of the words. Write down the words’ equivalents in your
native language.

1) a) a device used to control the electrical ________________

resistance of a circuit without interrupting
the flow of current
2) b) an electrical device, typically ________________
incorporating an electromagnet, which is
activated by a current or signal in one
circuit to open or close another circuit
3) c) a device designed to drop the voltage of ________________
or the current as it flows from one terminal to
the next

4) d) a device for warming the air or water ________________

5) e) a device which elements melt and ________________
interrupt the circuit in case of overcurrent
6) f) an automatic device for stopping the flow ________________
of current in an electric circuit as a safety
measure

92
 2 Look at the pictures. Change the words into the symbols. Write down the
equivalents in your native language.

a cell _________

a rheostat _______

a resistor _______

a battery _______

a capacitor ______

3 Find 10 words referred to the topic in the word search. Words go vertically,
horizontally and across, up and down.

S S Z X G T R C C D E X G S I
P W U T R E A M M J L L P R X
X I I F T M U T Y O A A T O N
V P Y T E E W X S N Y U M T R
L N A R C D J G I O S Y R S Z
J B P I O H B L U B E M B I V
R L E L D I Z V O P D H B S H
I G W T S Z C U O A R I R E F
H K O R U I U D D H F L W R O
H E A T E R K B P Z L E T F C
Z F G F R H S Z B G S Q J E S
R O T I C A P A C J R S L P D
K R O Z V V C Q O W M L D D S
I W P Y D G C N F M B W V X I

93
 Writing/ Speaking

4 Match statements in column A with the words in column B.

A B
1. When you maintain it, you must wear protective glasses to protect your eyes __ A rheostat
from acid splashes.
2. It is much simpler than a battery, as it can't produce new electrons - it only __A heater
stores them. __A capacitor
3. The basic principle used by them is Ohm's law which states that current is
inversely proportional to resistance for a given voltage. __A battery
4. These devices are good for warming small spaces, such as an office, and can
be effective if they contain oil.

5 Write the words instead of symbols.

are used to set lighting levels for comfort

1. _________s or mood, allowing people to change light
levels without needing to change lights.
2. There are two types of ___________s: primary and secondary ones.
are common elements of electrical
networks, electronic circuits and in most
3. ________s
electronic equipment and are used in
electronic devices.

4. An ideal _________ is characterized by a single constant value, capacitance,

measured in farads.

5. The opposite of a ___________ is an cooler used to keep the user cooler than
the environmental temperature.
are electromagnetic devices widely used in various branches of
6. _______s
industry.
Different types of ______________s are in use nowadays.
7.

8. ________s are designed for rather low currents.

9.
There are different types of ___________s : knife, packet and others.
10. The knife _______________ is used to start an electrical machine.

94
 6 Label each symbol. Ask your partner what each symbol stands for.
Model: What does symbol 4 stand for? – It stands for a capacitor.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
____________ ______________ ____________ ____________ _____________

6. 7. 8. 9.
____________ _____________ ______________ _____________

7 Read the Ukrainian definitions of the words. Write English equivalents.

a) ємність; обсяг; об'єм ____________________________________

b) ланка (ланцюга), зв'язок; ____________________________________
з'єднання
c) усувати помилки, ліквідувати ____________________________________
d) утилізувати, використовувати ____________________________________
e) різнитися, відрізнятися; ____________________________________
f) ручний ____________________________________
g) неправильний; помилковий; ____________________________________
хибний

8 Change and write the words in bold type for their synonyms.

a) This switch can be operated by hands.____________________________

b) The device is used in many branches of industry. ___________________
c) You should eliminate the problem in some hours. ___________________
d) The volume of a capacitor depends on its size. ___________________
e) Change defective fuse for a new one. ______________________________
f) There is a connecting piece between two ends of a fuse._______________
g) The value of a capacity may change.______________________________

Language Study

Grammar Spot
Present Simple Passive vs Past Simple Passive
If an action is taken over the object or a group of objects in present or the Subject is
unknown, it’s Present Simple Passive voice. It’s formed: am/is/are +helped (given).
Sometimes the words: usually, commonly, always, rear (seldom), often, sometimes, etc.
are available.
The capacity of the conductor is measured by the quantity of electricity.
Is the capacity of the conductor measured by the quantity of electricity?
The capacitor of the conductor is not (isn’t) measured in volts.
In Past Simple Passive voice an action was taken over the object or a group of objects in
the past or the Subject was unknown. It’s formed: was/were +helped (given). The time
determiners may be present: yesterday, … ago, last…
An electromotive force was applied to the ends of a wire.
95
 Was an electromotive force applied to the ends of a wire?
An electromotive force was not (wasn’t) applied to the terminal box.
Write down positive, negative and interrogative sentences.
I I
He, She, It am He, She, It
asked was asked
We is not We not
told were told
You are You
They They
Write questions to the sentences above.
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •

9 Choose the correct words in italics.

a) An ammeter is connected/was connected in the positive or negative lead in
series with a circuit.
b) This repaired motor is installed/was installed on its bedplate some minutes ago.
c) Each winding is formed/was formed by the series connection of the
corresponding coils by the manufacture.
d) The old automatic starter is used/was used to keep the current from being
excessive during these last years.
e) The features of the shunt and series types of motors are combined/were
combined in one machine.
f) Certain operation conditions are required/were required for this kind of
machine as we demanded.

Speaking

10 Complete the conversations.

1.
- These apparatuses look like similar! _____ they
___________________ in any way?
- Look attentively at the symbols on the body. All
markers ______________ there!
are distinguished
2.
checked
- It’s cold here. Where is the heater?
is broken
- I don’t think it’ll help us because it ______________.
are printed
- Should I find out about it just now? Why _____ you
didn’t repair
_________ it yesterday?
should be rewound
- The wire _________________. I’ll try to do
to be cleaned
something.
3.
- The battery has just been ________ by me. It requires
_________________.
- Take the cleaner and make it in order.

11 Listen to the conversations. Check your guesses.

12 Practise the conversations.

96
 Circuit breakers
Starter

Discuss the question.

What device protects all your domestic electrical equipment from high voltage?
Prove its importance.

Reading

13 Express your ideas: which of the circuit-opening apparatuses is more effective in

operation: a circuit breaker or a relay? Why?

14 Read the text. Find and correct 5 logical mistakes in it.

Circuit breakers
A circuit breaker is a circuit protection device that, like the fuse, will conduct
current in the circuit if there is a direct short, excessive current or excessive heat. Unlike a
fuse, a circuit breaker is reusable. The circuit breaker has to be replaced after it has opened
and broken the circuit. Instead of replacing the circuit breaker, it is reset.
Circuit breakers can also be used as circuit control devices. By automatically
opening and closing the contacts of a circuit breaker, the power can be selectively switched
on and off. This is of practical use when trying to isolate a circuit ground.
Circuit breakers have five main components (Figures A and B). The components
are the frame, the operating mechanism, the arc extinguishers, the terminal connectors, and
the trip elements.

Circuit breakers are classified as being trip-free or non trip-free. A trip-free circuit
breaker will trip (open) even if the operating mechanism (on-off switch) is held in the OFF
position. A non trip-free circuit breaker can be reset and/or held on even if an overload or
excessive heat condition is present. In other words, a non trip-free circuit breaker will
remain open by holding the operating mechanism on.

97
 15 Scan the text and
a) underline the sentence about the difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker;
b) highlight main constructional parts;
c) circle types of circuit breakers.

16 Complete the sentences.

1) A circuit breaker differs from a fuse because ...
___________________________________________________________________
2) If we open or close the contacts of a circuit breaker manually...
___________________________________________________________________
3) A circuit breaker consists of ...
___________________________________________________________________
4) The difference between a trip-free and non-trip free circuit breaker is that...
___________________________________________________________________

Language Study

17 Complete the sentences using Present or Past Simple Passive.

a) A part of the charge __________________to a conductor. (supply)

b) ______ a part of the charge ____________ to a conductor? (supply)
c) A part of the charge _________________ to a conductor. (not, supply)
d) We _________________ about perfect operation of the motor some hours ago.
(inform)
e) _______ we ____________ about perfect operation of the motor some hours
ago? (inform)
f) We ____________________ about perfect operation of the motor some hours
ago. (not, inform)

18 Fill in the gaps.

1. How many fuses ________________ (fix) by you on board every month?

2. Who __________________ (the form/ sign) by yesterday?
3. What manufacture ________________________ (this breaker/ produce) by?
4. Nowadays, a lot of electrical spare parts ______________ (make) in China.
5. Circuit breakers ______________ (use) not only on board a ship.

Speaking

19 Look at the pictures and say which of these switches are most widely used on
board.

knife switch
push button switch

98
toggle switch

flow-switch( air, water etc.)

temperature-actuated switch
rotary/selector switch

limit switch

20 Project work. Choose one type of the circuit breakers, present its advantages
and disadvantages.

Types of circuit control devices

Starter

Name types of circuit breakers that are installed in your home electrical equipment.
What are their functions?

Reading/ Speaking

21 Say 5 your associations with the word ‘circuit breaker’. Choose the most
important one, explain your choice.
___________________________________________________________________

99
 22 Read the text, find types of switches and circle them.

Circuit control devices have many different shapes and sizes. There are 3 basic
groups of circuit control devices: manual, magnetic and electronic. The toggle switch and
push button switch are examples of manual controls. All of them have contacts. Circuit
breakers, circuit control devices and switches have contacts of either copper or silver alloy
materials.
A common manual switch is a push button switch.
Figure B shows the symbols for the normally open, double-break push button.
Figure A shows the normally closed push-button in contact below the contacts.

A selector switch is rotated by the operator to a desired position to energize a

specific circuit.
In a toggle switch, no matter how fast or how slowly the toggle is moved, the actual
switching of a circuit takes place at a fixed speed. A toggle switch is a class of electrical
switches that are manually actuated by a mechanical lever, handle, or rocking mechanism.
The limit switch can be used in four ways: normally open, normally open held
closed, normally closed, normally closed held open.

Pressure switches are control devices that react to pressure changes in water, oils,
gases etc.
Temperature switch responds to changes in temperature.
A knife switch is a type of switch used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit
and it is really simple in construction and use.
What about maintenance and repair of switches, they are usually very reliable
electrical devices, but even so, switches do fail. So they need to be checked and replaced if
necessary.

23 a) Complete the sentences with information from the text.

Pressure switches are

_________________________________________________________________________
A selector switch is
_________________________________________________________________________
100
 A push button switch is
_________________________________________________________________________
A temperature switch is
_________________________________________________________________________
A toggle switch is a type of manual switches
_________________________________________________________________________
A limit switch can be used in four ways
_________________________________________________________________________
A knife switch is a type of switches used to
_________________________________________________________________________

b) Check your answers with your partner.

24 Read the text and fill in the gaps with an appropriate type of a relay.
Overcurrent relays

A general term “overcurrent” applies to a relatively small increase over the full load
current rating. Generally, an overcurrent is detected by a relay with an appropriate time-
delay. Short-circuit faults are mainly detected and cleared by fuses and some types of
circuit-breakers.
Main overcurrent relay types are:
*thermal * electronic *magnetic
A ____________ relay directly converts the current into an electromagnetic force
to operate a trip switch.
The time of operation is fixed at a definite minimum time which is less than 0.2
seconds.
A ____________relay utilized the bending action of a bimetallic bar to open a
normally closed contact which then trips a contactor or circuit breaker.
An ____________________ overcurrent relay usually converts the measured
current into the proportional voltage. This type of relay has separate adjustments for
overcurrent and time settings together with an instantaneous trip.
Both the magnetic and electronic relays can be designed to give an almost
instantaneous trip (typically less than 0.05 seconds or 50 ms) to clear a short circuit fault.
___________relays are commonly fitted in moulded case circuit-breakers
(MCCBs) and in miniature circuit-breakers (MCBs).

25 Detect the type of overcurrent relay and label the pictures.

________________________________ ___________________________________

101
 Language Study

26 Choose the correct form of the verbs.

1. Circuit breakers apply/are applied for protecting the electrical equipment from
high voltage.
2. How often do you check/ are you checked the proper condition of the high
current fuse?
3. In case of high temperature the relay opens/ is opened the circuit.
4. When the current is too excessive, the circuit opens/ is opened by the overcurrent
relay.
5. If the relay is defective, it must replace/ must be replaced only.

Speaking

27 Discuss the situation.

You are on board a ship and are assigned to repair the washing machine, it doesn’t
work. You’ve inspected it and stated the cause: burnt overcurrent relay.
Suggest the reason(s) of the failure.

Types of circuit protection devices

Starter

Discuss if an electric circuit can operate without protective elements. Prove it.

Speaking
28 List components in a circuit you’ve already studied.
Explain if it’s possible that a circuit exists only with essential components. Prove it.

Reading

29 Complete the conversations.

1 - This _______ relay fails to ________. Should I repair it?
operate
- Do it if possible. If not, there is only one way – it should be replaced
_________ . thermal
2 - Sir, this switch is ___________ . What to do?
- Firstly, check that it is ___________ from the power source. loosen
Then open the box and the contacts should be __________ . switched off
- What should I see? examined
- You can see either __________ contacts or much dirt on heated
them.
3 - Do you know what we _______ this device for?
- Certainly, I do. If I am not mistaken, it is a fuse, isn’t it? opens
- Yes, it is. heated
- Its principle of __________ is simple: in case of overcurrent short circuit
the fusible link is ______ and melts. This ______ the circuit and operation
_________ from ______________ . use
- Quite right you are. This device is small but very important protects
for electrical installations.

102
 Listen to the conversations. Check your guesses.

Practise the conversations.

Speaking

30 Complete the mind map. Discuss:

• why do all apparatuses exist more than in one type?
• by what properties can they be united?

knife switch

switching
protective
over

Electrical
Devices

Additional Devices

capacito

31 Choose some apparatuses and present them to the class.

32 Describe the electrical diagrams:

• if the circuit is simple or complex;
• kinds of elements in the circuit;
• connection of the elements in the circuit.

•
•
•

103
 •
•
•

Check Your Competency

1. What are the main components of an electric circuit?
2. What is the function of an electric source/ a load?
3. What are conductors used for?
4. What additional components of an electric circuit are there?
5. What material is called a conductor?
6. What groups are the conductors divided into according to their resistivity?
7. What is the unit of resistivity?
8. What material is called an insulator?
9. What groups are the insulators divided into?
10. What do you know about solid/liquid/gaseous insulators?
11. What is the function of a fuse?
12. What should you do in case of a faulty fuse?
13. Why are switches used?
14. What value of current and voltage are relays applied for?
15. What types of relays are there? What do they protect the circuit against?

Word List
Module 2
Components of an electric circuit
add /æd/ v put in (an additional element, ingredient, etc.) додавати
ammeter/ˈamɪtə/ n an instrument for measuring electric current in amperes амперметр
automatic /ɔːtəˈmatɪk/adj (of a device or process) working by itself with little or no direct
human control автоматичний
bulb /bʌlb/ n the glass part of an electric lamp, which gives out light when electricity
passes through it лампа
capacity /kəˈpasɪtɪ/ n the amount that something can produce ємність, місткість
сapacitor /kəˈpasɪtə/ n a device used to store an electric charge, consisting of one or more
pairs of conductors separated by an insulator конденсатор
ceramics /sɪˈramɪks/ n pots and other articles made from clay hardened by heat кераміка
circuit breaker /ˈsəːkɪtˈbreɪkə/ an automatic device for stopping the flow of current in an
electric circuit as a safety measure автоматичний вимикач
close a circuit /ˈkləʊsəˈsəːkɪt / come into contact with замикати ланцюг
coil /kɔɪl/ n a number of turns of wire wound around a core (as of iron) to create a
magnetic field for an electromagnet or an induction coil котушка
common /ˈkɒmən/ adj ordinary; of ordinary qualities загальний, звичайний
comparatively /kəmˈparətɪvlɪ/ adv as compared to something else; relatively
порівняльно
conduct /kɒnˈdʌkt/ v transmit (a form of energy such as heat or electricity) by conduction
104
проводити
conductivity /kɒndʌkˈtɪvɪtɪ/ n the degree to which a specified material conducts electricity,
calculated as the ratio of the current density in the material to the electric field which
causes the flow of current питома провідність
conductor /kənˈdʌktə/ n a material or device that conducts or transmits heat or electricity,
especially when regarded in terms of its capacity to do this провідник
controller /kənˈtrəʊlə/ n thing that directs or regulates something контролер,
автоматичний регулятор
convert /kənˈvəːt/ v be able to change from one form to another перетворювати
decrease /dɪˈkriːs/ v make or become smaller or fewer in size, amount, intensity, or degree
зменшувати, знижувати
dielectric /ˌdʌɪɪˈlɛktrɪk/ n a medium or substance with a dielectric property; an insulator
діелектрик, ізолятор
diode /ˈdʌɪəʊd/ n a semiconductor device with two terminals, typically allowing the flow
of current in one direction only діод
disconnect /dɪskəˈnɛkt/ v break the connection of or between роз’єднати
earth /əːθ/ n electrical connection to the ground, regarded as having zero electrical
potential заземлення
electrode /ɪˈlɛktrəʊd/ n a conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object,
substance, or region електрод
electrolyte /ɪˈlɛktrəlʌɪt/ n a liquid or gel which contains ions and can be decomposed by
electrolysis, e.g. that present in a batteryелектроліт
eliminate /ɪˈlɪmɪneɪt/ v completely remove or get rid of (something) усувати
fail /feɪl/ v be unsuccessful in виходити з ладу; терпіти невдачу
fixed /fɪkst/ adj fastened securely in position зафіксований
generate /ˈdʒɛnəreɪt/ v produce (energy, especially electricity) генерувати
heater /ˈhiːtə/ n a device for warming the air or water обігрівач
incandescent /ɪnkanˈdɛs(ə)nt/adj emitting light as a result of being heated
розжарювання
~ lamp /lamp/ лампа розжарювання
increase /ɪnˈkriːs/ v become or make greater in size, amount, or degree збільшувати;
підвищувати
inductor /ɪnˈdʌktə/ n a component in an electric or electronic circuit which possesses
inductance індуктор
insulator /ˈɪnsjʊleɪtə/n a substance which does not readily allow the passage of heat or
sound ізолятор, непровідник
link /lɪŋk/ n a means of contact, travel, or transport between two places вставка
fusible ~ /ˈfjuːzɪb(ə)l/ плавка вставка
manual /ˈmanjʊ(ə)l/ adj operated or controlled by hand, rather than automatically or
electronically ручний
melting point /ˈmeltɪŋˈpɔɪnt/ the temperature at which a given solid will melt точка
плавлення
meter /ˈmiːtə/ n a device that measures and records the quantity, degree, or rate of
something лічильник
operate /ˈɒpəreɪt/ v control the functioning of (a machine, process, or system)
експлуатувати
porcelain /ˈpɔːs(ə)lɪn/ n a white vitrified translucent ceramic; china кераміка
protect /prəˈtɛkt/ v keep safe from harm or injury захищати
protection /prəˈtɛkʃ(ə)n/ n the action of protecting, or the state of being protected захист
rate /reɪt/ n a measure, quantity, or frequency, typically one measured against another
quantity or measure діапазон
105
relay /ˈriːleɪ/ n an electrical device, typically incorporating an electromagnet, which is
activated by a current or signal in one circuit to open or close another circuit реле
resin /ˈrɛzɪn/ n a solid or liquid synthetic organic polymer used as the basis of plastics,
adhesives, varnishes, or other products смола
resistivity /ˌrɪzɪˈstɪvɪtɪ/ n measure of the resisting power of a specified material to the flow
of an electric current питомий опір
resistor /rɪˈzɪstə /n a device having resistance to the passage of an electric current
резистор
reverse /rɪˈvəːs / v move backwards давати зворотний хід (двигуну) , реверсувати
rheostat /ˈriːəstat/ n an electrical instrument used to control a current by varying the
resistance реостат
semiconductor /ˌsɛmɪkənˈdʌktə/ n a solid substance that has a conductivity between that
of an insulator and that of most metals, either due to the addition of an impurity or because
of temperature effects напівровідник
switch /ˈswɪtʃ/ n a device for making and breaking the connection in an electric circuit
перемикач
push button ~ /ˈpʊʃbʌt(ə)nˈswɪtʃ/ n кнопковий перемикач
knife-~ /ˈnaɪfswɪtʃ/ n рубильник
toggle ~ /ˈtɒɡ(ə)l/ n an electric switch operated by means of a projecting lever that is
moved up and down тумблер
pressure ~/ ˈprɛʃə/n switch that is tripped when the pressure of a fluid reaches a certain
value реле тиску
terminal /ˈtəːmɪn(ə)l/ n a point of connection for closing an electric circuit клема
thermal /ˈθəːm(ə)l/ adj relating to heat тепловий
tumbler /ˈtʌmblə/ n an electrical switch worked by pushing a small sprung lever тумблер
utilize /ˈjuːtɪlʌɪz/ v make practical and effective use of використовувати
variable /ˈvɛːrɪəb(ə)l/ adj able to be changed or adapted змінний, непостійний
vary /ˈveərɪ/ v change from one condition, form, or state to another різнитися;
відрізнятися
wire /ˈwʌɪə/ n metal drawn out into the form of a thin flexible thread or rod провід
wire-wound /ˈwaɪəˈwaʊnd/ (of an electrical component, especially a resistor) consisting of
a coil of electrical wire wound around a core дротяний

SEA STORY 2
Discussion
What incidents can be occurred if an ac plug was incorrectly inserted in a dc
socket?
Reading for gist
Read the story and say what incident had happened.
BLOWN FUSES KEEP SUB AFLOAT

106
 Cape Town - The woes of the Navy's SAS Manthatisi submarine, which has been out
of commission for nearly three years, include fuses blown because someone inserted a перегорати
plug in the wrong socket, Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu said. вставляти
"During a switch-over from shore to ship electrical supply, an incident occurred
whereby an alternating current plug was incorrectly inserted in a direct current socket,"
5 she said in reply to a parliamentary question. "This led to a number of fuses being
blown protecting electrical equipment onboard from incorrectly phased electrical
supply."
Fuses were blown in a shore supply box and changes in design and operating
procedure were made to prevent a repeat of the mistake, Sisulu said. "The minor
10 repairs that had to be affected to the outboard switchboard were completed shortly
after the incident occurred, in excess of 18 months ago."
The incident was raised a month ago when the Navy's chief director of maritime
strategy, Rear-Admiral Bernhard Teuteberg, told Parliament's portfolio committee on
defenсe someone had connected wires "the wrong way round". He said this had
15 happened because the wires had not been marked properly but the person responsible захищати
had been disciplined.
Sisulu said the Navy had commenced the unprecedented process of doing an overhaul
of the SAS Manthathisi - a five-year-old Type 209 sub-surface combat vessel - locally. безпрецедентний
"Many elements of this process are unknown and infrastructure and training will need повне
20 to be established in order to create a submarine overhaul capability in the country." обстеження
The Navy is currently drawing up a list of work that needs to be carried out during the
overhaul, which it hopes to complete by 2012. She qualified the overhaul as "minor",
directly contradicting Teuteberg who told the portfolio committee in November that it
was a "major overhaul" and "very, very complex exercise". He also told MPs last
25 month that a dire shortage of submariners had contributed to keeping the vessel out of
commission for so long. The Navy was rather concentrating on keeping two other
submarines operational to train new recruits. In addition, he said, the SAS Manthatisi
had a problem with excessive hydrogen build-up in its batteries and sustained damage
to plates when it was put to sea during a storm and knocked against the quay of the
30 submarine pen. There were plans to widen the entrance to the submarine pen. новачок
Currently, the submarine was being housed in the Submarine Battery Workshop in the водень
Simon's Town naval dockyard where it was being trickle charged to ensure that its
batteries were maintained at operational levels. It is to be fitted with new batteries after
the overhaul to ensure a lifespan of at least a further eight years.
35
верф

відрізок життя
Comprehension check
1. Why do the woes of the Navy's SAS Manthatisi submarine include fuses blown?
2. What happened with the fuses after an ac plug was incorrectly inserted in a dc socket?
3. Where were fuses blown?
4. Where was the submarine being housed?
What do you think?
1. When and why was the accident raised?
2. Why did the Navy currently draw up a list of work that needs to be carried out during the
overhaul?
3. Why did a dire shortage of submariners have contributed to keeping the vessel out of
commission for so long?
4. Is it a good idea to use this submarine after the accident?
Creative task
Role-play. Imagine that you are at the meeting where the accident of a submarine is being
discussed.
One of you is Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu and the second is Rear-Admiral Bernhard
Teuteberg.
Abbreviations
SAS – Special Air Service, MPs - Member of Parliament

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