Electrical Installation Level 5 Learning Guide
Electrical Installation Level 5 Learning Guide
LEARNING GUIDE
FOR
ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
LEVEL 5
TVET CDACC
P.O. BOX 15745-00100
NAIROBI
First published 2020
©2020, TVET CDACC
All rights reserved. No part of this learning guide may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods
without the prior written permission of the TVET CDACC, except in the case of brief quotations embodied
in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission
requests, write to the Council Secretary/CEO, at the address below:
Council Secretary/CEO
TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council
P.O. Box 15745–00100
Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.tvetcdacc.go.ke
2
FOREWORD
The provision of quality education and training is fundamental to the Government’s overall strategy for
social economic development. Quality education and training will contribute to achievement of Kenya’s
development blue print and sustainable development goals. Reforms in education are necessary to align
the sector to the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. This triggered the formulation of the Policy
Framework on “Reforming Education and Training in Kenya” (Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2019). A key
provision of this policy is the radical change in the design, development and delivery of Technical and
Vocational Education and Training (TVET) which is the key to unlocking the country’s potential for
industrialization. This policy requires that training in TVET be Competency Based, Curriculum
development be industry led, certification be based on demonstration of competence and that mode of
delivery allows for multiple entry and exit in TVET programs.
The State Department for Vocational and Technical Training (VTT) has a responsibility of facilitating the
process of inculcating knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for catapulting the nation to a globally
competitive country, hence the paradigm shift to embrace Competency Based Education and Training
(CBET) to address the mismatch between skills acquired through training and skills needed by industry as
well as increase the global competitiveness of Kenyan labor force. The Technical and Vocational
Education and Training Act No. 29 of 2013 and the Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2019 on Reforming Education
and Training in Kenya, emphasizes the need to reform curriculum development, assessment and
certification to respond to the unique needs of the industry.
This learning guide has been developed to support the implementation of CBET curriculum in Electrical
Installation Level 5 and is intended to guide the trainee through the learning process. It is my conviction
that this learning guide will play a critical role towards supporting the development of competent human
resource for Engineering sector’s growth and sustainable development.
3
PREFACE
Kenya Vision 2030 is anticipated to transform the country into a newly industrializing, “middle-income country
providing a high-quality life to all its citizens by the year 2030”. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
number four that focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education and promotion of lifelong learning for all,
further affirm that education and training is an important driver to economic development for any country. Kenya
intends to create a globally competitive and adaptive human resource base to meet the requirements of a rapidly
industrializing economy.
TVET CDACC has a responsibility of facilitating the process of inculcating knowledge, skills and attitudes
necessary for catapulting the nation to a globally competitive country, hence the paradigm shift to embrace
Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) to address the mismatch between skills acquired through
training and skills needed by industry as well as increase the global competitiveness of Kenyan labor force. The
Technical and Vocational Education and Training Act No. 29 of 2013 and the Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2019 on
Reforming Education and Training in Kenya, emphasizes the need to reform curriculum development,
assessment and certification to respond to the unique needs of the industry.
To effectively implement CBET curriculum in Electrical Installation Level 5 this learning guide has been
designed and organized with clear interactive learning activities for each learning outcome of every unit of
learning. The guide further provides information sheet, self-assessment items, tools, equipment, supplies, and
materials necessary for the particular learning outcome. This is aimed at imparting the relevant knowledge,
requisite skills and the right attitude for work.
4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This learning guide has been designed and developed to support the implementation of Competency Based
Education and Training (CBET) curricula in Kenya. The learning guide is intended to support learning by
providing practical and theoretical learning activities, simplified content and self-assessment items to
guide the trainee in the learning process.
I recognize with appreciation the critical role of trainers in developing this learning guide and ensuring its
alignment with National Occupational Standards (OS) and CBET curriculum. I am convinced that this
learning guide will support trainees’ acquisition of knowledge, skills and right attitude needed for work in
the Engineering sector.
5
ACRONYMNS AND ABBREVIATIONS
BS British standards
CAD Computer Aided Design
CBET Competency Based Education and Training
CCTV Closed Circuit Tele Vision
CDACC Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council
CEC County environmental committee
CPC Circuit protective conductors
EHS Environment Health and Safety
EIA Environmental impact assessment
EMCA Environment management and coordination Act
ERC Energy regulatory commission
FEMA Forest conservation and management act
HVAC Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
IBMS Integrated Building Management System
IEE Institute of electrical engineers
IR Insulation resistance
K.C.S.E Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
KEBS Kenya Bureau of Standards
KNQA Kenya National Qualification Authority
NCA National Construction Authority
NEMA National Environment Management Authority
OSHA Occupational safety and health act
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PV Photo Voltaic
SELV Separated extra low voltage
TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training
VT Visual Testing
VTT Vocational and Technical Training
WIBA Work Injury Benefits Act
WIBA Work injury benefits act
6
Table of Contents
8
7.2.3 Performance Standard.............................................................................................................. 85
7.2.4 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 85
7.2.5 Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 88
7.2.6 Self-Assessment....................................................................................................................... 88
7.2.7 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. 89
7.2.8 References ............................................................................................................................... 89
7.2.9 Answers to Self-Assessment ................................................................................................... 89
8 Learning Outcome 9: Perform Commercial Calculation ................................................................ 91
8.2.2 Introduction to the learning outcome....................................................................................... 91
8.2.3 Performance Standard.............................................................................................................. 91
8.2.4 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 91
8.2.5 Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 95
8.2.6 Self-Assessment....................................................................................................................... 96
8.2.7 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. 96
8.2.8 References ............................................................................................................................... 96
8.2.9 Answers to Self-Assessment ................................................................................................... 96
CHAPTER 2: ELECTRICAL PRINCIPLES .......................................................................................... 100
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 100
2.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes ....................................................................................................... 100
2.2.1 Learning outcome 1: use the concept of basic electrical quantities ................................................ 100
2.2.1.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 100
2.2.1.2 Performance Standard............................................................................................................ 100
2.2.1.2.1 Identify basic SI units in electrical systems ........................................................................... 100
2.2.1.2.2 Identify quantities of charge, force, work and power ........................................................ 100
2.2.1.2.3 Perform calculations involving Ohm’s law i.e. current, resistance and voltage ................ 100
2.2.1.2.4 Perform calculations involving various electrical quantities ............................................. 100
2.2.1.2.5 Identify electrical quantities measuring instruments ......................................................... 100
2.2.1.3 Information Sheet ..................................................................................................................... 101
3.1.1.3. Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 107
3.1.1.4. Self-Assessment Questions ..................................................................................................... 107
3.1.1.5. Tools, Equipment and Materials ............................................................................................ 108
3.1.1.6. References ............................................................................................................................. 108
3.1.2. Use the concepts of D.C and A.C circuits in electrical installation ............................................... 111
3.1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 111
3.1.2.1. Performance Standard ............................................................................................................. 111
3.1.2.2. Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 111
9
3.1.2.2. Self-Assessment Questions.................................................................................................... 125
3.1.2.3. Tools, Equipment and Materials ............................................................................................ 126
3.1.2. References ................................................................................................................................. 126
Use of basic electrical machine................................................................................................................ 129
References ............................................................................................................................................ 142
Demonstrate understanding of three phase power supply.................................................................... 145
3.1.2.0. Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 145
3.1.2.1. Performance Standards .............................................................................................................. 145
Information Sheet ................................................................................................................................. 145
3.1.2.2. Learning Activities ................................................................................................................ 150
3.1.3.0. Tools, Equipment and Materials ............................................................................................ 150
3.1.5.......................................................................................................................................................... 154
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 154
Performance Standard .............................................................................................................................. 154
Information Sheet..................................................................................................................................... 154
3.1.5.3. Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 159
3.1.6.0. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 163
3.1.6.1. Performance Standard............................................................................................................ 163
Information Sheet ................................................................................................................................. 164
3.1.6.5. References ................................................................................................................................. 172
3.1.7. Apply lightning protection measures ................................................................................................. i
3.1.7.0. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. i
Information Sheet ...................................................................................................................................... i
3.1.7.4. Self-Assessment Questions.................................................................................................... viii
3.1.7.6. References ..................................................................................................................................... x
3.1.8. Apply electromagnetic field theory ................................................................................................xii
3.1.8.0. Introduction ...............................................................................................................................xii
3.1.1.1. Performance Standard..............................................................................................................xii
3.1.1.2. Information Sheet .................................................................................................................. xiii
Amplitude ................................................................................................................................................. xix
3.1.1.4. Self-Assessment Questions................................................................................................... xxiv
3.1.1.6. References ............................................................................................................................... xxvi
1.1 Introduction to the unit of learning ............................................................................................ xxviii
1.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes ............................................................................................... xxviii
1.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Use Concepts of Arithmetic in Solving Work Problems ........ xxix
1. Learning Activities ............................................................................................................... xxxiv
10
1. Self-Assessment..................................................................................................................... xxxiv
1.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .................................................................. xxxv
1.2.1.7 References ....................................................................................................................... xxxv
6.2.1.8 Answers to Self-Assessment ...................................................................................... xxxv
1.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Use formulae and algebraic expressions for work .............................xxxvii
1.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ...........................................................................xxxvii
2.2.1.3 Performance Standard .............................................................................................xxxvii
2.2.2 Information Sheet ..............................................................................................................xxxvii
2.2.3 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................xlvi
2.2.4 Self-Assessment................................................................................................................... xlvii
2.2.5 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .......................................................................... xlvii
2.2.6 References .......................................................................................................................... xlviii
2.2.7 Answers to the Self-Assessment......................................................................................... xlviii
Learning Outcome 3: Use trigonometry to solve practical work problems .............................................. l
2.2.8 Introduction to the learning outcome.......................................................................................... l
2.2.9 Performance Standard................................................................................................................. l
2.2.10 Information Sheet.................................................................................................................... l
2.2.11 Learning Activities ..................................................................................................................lvi
2.2.12 Self-Assessment ...................................................................................................................lvi
2.2.13 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ........................................................................ lvii
2.2.14 References .......................................................................................................................... lvii
2.2.15 Answers to Self-Assessment .............................................................................................. lvii
Learning Outcome 4: Perform estimations, measurements and calculations of quantities ....................lix
2.2.16 Introduction to the learning outcome ...................................................................................lix
2.2.17 Performance Standard ..........................................................................................................lix
2.2.18 Information Sheet.................................................................................................................lix
2.2.19 Learning Activities.............................................................................................................. lxv
2.2.20 Self-Assessment .................................................................................................................lxvi
2.2.21 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ........................................................................lxvi
2.2.22 References ........................................................................................................................ lxvii
2.2.23 Answers to Self-Assessment ............................................................................................ lxvii
Learning Outcome 5: Apply Matrices in work ................................................................................. lxviii
2.2.24 Introduction to the learning outcome .............................................................................. lxviii
2.2.25 Performance Standard ..................................................................................................... lxviii
2.2.26 Information Sheet...............................................................................................................lxix
2.2.27 Learning Activities...........................................................................................................lxxiv
11
2.2.28 Self-Assessment ...............................................................................................................lxxiv
2.2.29 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ....................................................................... lxxv
2.2.30 References ......................................................................................................................... lxxv
2.2.31 Answers to Self-Assessment ............................................................................................. lxxv
Learning Outcome 6: Apply Vectors in work ....................................................................................lxxvi
2.2.32 Introduction to the learning outcome ...............................................................................lxxvi
2.2.33 Performance Standard ......................................................................................................lxxvi
2.2.34 Information Sheet.............................................................................................................lxxvi
2.2.35 Learning Activities.......................................................................................................... lxxxv
2.2.36 Self-Assessment .............................................................................................................lxxxvi
2.2.37 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .................................................................. lxxxvii
2.2.38 References .................................................................................................................... lxxxvii
2.2.39 Answers to Self-Assessment ........................................................................................ lxxxvii
Learning Outcome 7: Collect, Organize and Interpret Statistical Data............................................lxxxix
2.2.40 Introduction to the learning outcome .............................................................................lxxxix
2.2.41 Performance Standard ....................................................................................................lxxxix
2.2.42 Information Sheet................................................................................................................. xc
2.2.43 Learning Activities............................................................................................................ xcvi
2.2.44 Self-Assessment ................................................................................................................ xcvi
2.2.45 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ...................................................................... xcvii
2.2.46 References ........................................................................................................................ xcvii
2.2.47 Answers to Self-Assessment ............................................................................................ xcvii
Learning Outcome 8: Apply Concepts of probability for Work .............................................................. c
2.2.48 Introduction to the learning outcome ..................................................................................... c
2.2.49 Performance Standard ............................................................................................................ c
2.2.50 Information Sheet.................................................................................................................. ci
2.2.51 Learning Activities.............................................................................................................. civ
2.2.52 Self-Assessment ................................................................................................................... cv
2.2.53 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .......................................................................... cv
2.2.54 References ............................................................................................................................ cv
2.2.55 Answers to Self-Assessment ................................................................................................ cv
Learning Outcome 9: Perform Commercial Calculation ..................................................................... cvii
2.2.56 Introduction to the learning outcome ................................................................................. cvii
2.2.57 Performance Standard ........................................................................................................ cvii
2.2.58 Information Sheet.............................................................................................................. cviii
2.2.59 Learning Activities............................................................................................................. cxii
12
2.2.60 Self-Assessment ................................................................................................................ cxiii
2.2.61 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ....................................................................... cxiii
2.2.62 References ......................................................................................................................... cxiv
2.2.63 Answers to Self-Assessment ............................................................................................. cxiv
CHAPTER 3 WORKSHOP TECHNOLOGY....................................................................................... cxvii
Introduction to the unit of learning .................................................................................................... cxvii
Summary of Learning Outcomes ....................................................................................................... cxvii
3.0 Learning Outcome 1: Apply workshop safety ............................................................................. cxvii
3.1.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ........................................................................................ cxvii
3.1.2 Performance Standard .............................................................................................................. cxviii
3.1.3 Information Sheet ..................................................................................................................... cxviii
3.1.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... cxxxi
3.1.5 Self-Assessment ...................................................................................................................... cxxxii
3.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ............................................................................. cxxxii
3.1.7 References ............................................................................................................................... cxxxii
3.1.8 Answers to self-assessment .................................................................................................... cxxxiii
Learning Outcome 2: Use of workshop tools, Instruments and equipments ....................................... cxxxv
3.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ...................................................................................... cxxxv
3.2.1 Performance Standard ............................................................................................................. cxxxv
3.2.3 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... cxxxv
3.2.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... cxlvii
3.2.5 Self-Assessment ....................................................................................................................... cxlvii
3.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. cxlvii
3.2.7 References ............................................................................................................................... cxlvii
3.2.8 Answers to self-assessment ....................................................................................................cxlviii
3.3 Learning Outcome 3: Prepare workshop tools and instruments for an Electrical installation practical
.................................................................................................................................................................... cli
3.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ............................................................................................ cli
3.3.2 Performance Standard ................................................................................................................... cli
3.3.3 Information Sheet .......................................................................................................................... cli
3.3.4 Learning Activities ......................................................................................................................cliii
3.3.5 Self- Assessment .........................................................................................................................cliii
3.3.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ................................................................................. cliv
3.3.7 References ................................................................................................................................... cliv
3.3.8 Answers to self-assessment test .................................................................................................. cliv
3.3 Learning Outcome 4: Prepare the workshop for an Electrical practical .................................clviii
13
3.4.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ........................................................................................clviii
3.4.2 Performance Standard ...............................................................................................................clviii
3.4.3 Information Sheet ......................................................................................................................clviii
3.4.4 Learning Activities ....................................................................................................................... clx
3.4.5 Self-Assessment ........................................................................................................................... clx
3.4.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ................................................................................. clxi
3.4.7 References ................................................................................................................................... clxi
3.4.8 Answers to Self-Assessment ....................................................................................................... clxi
3.5 Learning Outcome 5: Store Electrical tools and materials after practicals ...................................... clxiv
3.5.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ........................................................................................ clxiv
3.5.2 Performance Standard ............................................................................................................... clxiv
3.5.3 Information Sheet ...................................................................................................................... clxiv
3.5.4 Learning Activities .................................................................................................................... clxxi
3.5.5 Self- Assessment ....................................................................................................................... clxxi
3.5.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. clxxii
3.5.7 References ............................................................................................................................... clxxii
3.5.8 Answers to self-assessment ...................................................................................................... clxxii
3.6 Learning Outcome 6: Troubleshoot and repair of workshop tools and equipment ....................... clxxiv
3.6.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ...................................................................................... clxxiv
3.6.2 Performance Standard ............................................................................................................. clxxiv
3.6.3 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... clxxiv
3.6.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... clxxx
3.6.5 Self-Assessment ....................................................................................................................... clxxx
3.6.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. clxxx
3.6.7 References ................................................................................................................................ clxxx
3.6.8 Answers to self-assessment ...................................................................................................... clxxx
CHAPTER FOUR: TECHNICAL DRAWING....................................................................................... 182
4.1 Apply and Maintain Drawing Equipment and Materials ............................................................... 182
4.2. Produce Plane Geometry Drawings .......................................................................................... 194
4.4 Produce Orthographic and Pictorial Drawings............................................................................... 250
4.6 Apply Cad Packages....................................................................................................................... 668
4.7 MODEL ANSWERS...................................................................................................................... 100
CHAPTER FOUR: TECHNICAL DRAWING....................................................................................... 122
4.1 Apply and Maintain Drawing Equipment and Materials ............................................................... 123
5.2. Produce Plane Geometry Drawings .......................................................................................... 135
4.4 Produce Orthographic and Pictorial Drawings............................................................................... 191
14
4.6 Apply Cad Packages....................................................................................................................... 668
4.7 MODEL ANSWERS...................................................................................................................... 100
CHAPTER 5: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION WORK PLANNING ................................................. 123
CHAPTER 6: PERFORMING ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ............................................................. 9
6.1 Introduction to Electrical installation ................................................................................................. 9
6.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 9
6.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Apply Health, Safety and Environmental standards ........................................ 9
6.2.1.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ........................................................................................... 9
6.2.1.2 Performance Standard................................................................................................................ 9
6.2.1.3 Information Sheet ....................................................................................................................... 10
Protection against shock from both types of contact ................................................................................. 16
6.2.1.4 Learning Activities ..................................................................................................................... 32
6.2.1.5 Self-Assessment....................................................................................................................... 32
6.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. 33
6.2.1.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 34
6.2.2. Learning Outcome 2: Prepare working drawings ....................................................................... 37
6.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome....................................................................................... 37
6.2.2.2 Performance Standard.............................................................................................................. 37
6.2.2.3 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 37
6.2.2.4 Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 61
6.2.2.5 Self-Assessment....................................................................................................................... 62
6.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials ................................................................................ 63
6.2.2.7 References .................................................................................................................................. 64
6.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Assemble tools, equipment and materials ................................................... 67
6.2.3.7 References ................................................................................................................................. 97
6.2.4 Learning Outcome 4 Install electrical system ............................................................................. 99
6.2.4.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ............................................................................................. 99
6.2.4.2 Performance Standards ................................................................................................................ 99
6.2.4.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... 145
6.2.4.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. 147
6.2.4.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 147
6.2.5 Learning Outcome 5 ..................................................................................................................... 151
6.2.5.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ........................................................................................... 151
6.2.5.2 Performance Standard............................................................................................................ 151
6.2.5.3 Information Sheet........................................................................................................................ 151
6.2.5.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... 154
15
6.2.5.5 Self-Assessment ....................................................................................................................... 154
6.2.5.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials .............................................................................. 155
6.2.5.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 156
6.2.6 Learning Outcome 6 ....................................................................................................................... 159
6.2.6.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ....................................................................................... 159
6.2.6.2 Performance Standard............................................................................................................ 159
6.2.6.3 Information Sheet ..................................................................................................................... 159
6.2.6.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................... 163
6.2.6.7 References .................................................................................................................................... 165
2. What are some benefits of good housekeeping practices?............................................................ 167
CHAPTER 7: TESTING OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION .............................................................. 62
7.1 Introduction to the unit of learning .................................................................................................. 62
7.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes ..................................................................................................... 62
7.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Conduct physical inspection ........................................................................ 62
7.2.1.1 Introduction to the learning outcome .......................................................................................... 62
7.2.1.2 Performance Standard ................................................................................................................. 62
7.2.1.3 Information Sheet ........................................................................................................................ 62
7.2.1.4 Learning activities ................................................................................................................... 70
7.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment used in installation testing ............................................................................ 71
7.2.1.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 71
7.2.1.8 Model Answers to self-assessment .......................................................................................... 71
7.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Identify the test to be carried out and test equipment .................................. 73
7.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ......................................................................................... 73
7.2.2.2 Performance standards ............................................................................................................. 73
7.2.2.3 Information sheet ..................................................................................................................... 73
7.2.2.4 Learning activities ................................................................................................................... 76
7.2.2.5 Self-assessment ........................................................................................................................ 77
7.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, used in installation testing......................................................................... 77
7.2.2.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 78
7.2.2.8 Model Answers to self-assessment ............................................................................................ 78
7.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Prepare test equipment ................................................................................. 78
7.2.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ......................................................................................... 78
7.2.3.2 Performance Standard.............................................................................................................. 79
7.2.3.3 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 79
7.2.3.4 Learning activities ................................................................................................................... 81
7.2.3.7 References ............................................................................................................................... 82
16
7.2.3.8 Model Answer to self-assessment .......................................................................................... 82
7.2.4 Learning Outcome 4: Perform the test ............................................................................................ 83
7.2.4.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ......................................................................................... 83
7.2.4.2 Performance Standard.............................................................................................................. 83
7.2.4.3 Information Sheet .................................................................................................................... 83
7.2.4.4 Learning Activities .................................................................................................................. 99
7.2.4.5 Self-assessment ........................................................................................................................ 99
7.2.4.6 Tools, Equipment, used in installation testing....................................................................... 100
7.2.4.7 References ............................................................................................................................. 100
7.2.4.8 Answers to the self-assessment ............................................................................................. 100
7.2.5 Learning Outcome 5: Issue installation test results and wiring completion certificates................. 102
7.2.5.1 Introduction to the learning outcome ....................................................................................... 102
7.2.5.2 Performance Standard............................................................................................................ 102
7.2.5.3 Information sheet ................................................................................................................... 102
7.2.5.4 Learning Activities ................................................................................................................ 107
7.2.5.5 Self-Assessment..................................................................................................................... 107
7.2.5.6 Tools and equipment ............................................................................................................. 107
7.2.5.7 References ............................................................................................................................. 107
7.2.5.8 Model Answers to self-assessment ........................................................................................ 108
CHAPTER 8: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 109
Maintain electrical installation systems ................................................................................................... 169
9.1 Introduction to the unit of learning ................................................................................................ 228
9.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes ................................................................................................... 228
9.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Identify System Failure ................................................................... 228
9.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Troubleshoot cause of failure.......................................................... 235
9.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Repair the installation ..................................................................... 251
9.2.4 Learning Outcome 4: Test the repaired system .................................................................. 257
17
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1 SHOCK LEVELS .................................................................................................................... 16
FIGURE 2 CURRENT FLOW WHEN NOT EARTH.............................................................................. 18
FIGURE 3 VARIOUS SAFETY/ PROTECTIVE WEARS...................................................................... 23
FIGURE 4 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND THEIR APPLICATIONS (COLOUR CODES TO
BSEN3:1996)...................................................................................................................................... 28
FIGURE 5 KISS OF LIFE METHOD ....................................................................................................... 29
FIGURE 6 HOLGER- NIELSEN METHOD ............................................................................................ 30
FIGURE 7 REVISED SYLVESTER METHOD ...................................................................................... 31
FIGURE 8 SCHAFER'S METHOD OF ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION .................................................. 31
FIGURE 9 SOME BS EN 60617 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION SYMBOLS ................................... 38
FIGURE 10 LAYOUT DRAWING OR SITE PLAN OF A SMALL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
............................................................................................................................................................ 39
FIGURE 11 BLOCK DIAGRAM OF PACE HEATING CONTROL SYSTEM..................................... 40
FIGURE 12 WIRING DIAGRAM-SPACE HEATING CONTROL SYSTEM (HONEYWELL Y
PLAN) ................................................................................................................................................ 41
FIGURE 13 CIRCUIT DIAGRAM- SPACE HEATING CONTROL SYSTEM (HONEYWELL Y
PLAN) ................................................................................................................................................ 42
FIGURE 14 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM OF A MOTOR STARTER........................................................ 43
FIGURE 15 DRAWING INSTRUMENTS ............................................................................................... 44
FIGURE 16 TECHNICAL DRAWING PAPER SIZES ........................................................................... 46
FIGURE 17 TITLE BLOCK ..................................................................................................................... 48
FIGURE 18 ORTHOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS .................................................................................... 52
FIGURE 19 ORTHOGRAPHIC VIEWS .................................................................................................. 52
FIGURE 20 VIEWS TO PRESENT .......................................................................................................... 53
FIGURE 21 FIRST AND THIRD ANGLE PROJECTIONS.................................................................... 57
FIGURE 22 CONVENTIONAL ORTHOGONAL VIEWS ..................................................................... 57
FIGURE 23 SOME OF THE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.................................................................... 73
FIGURE 24 INSULATED CORD-GRIP .................................................................................................. 74
FIGURE 25 INSULATED HOLDER SUITABLE FOR DIRECT MOUNTING .................................... 74
FIGURE 26 CORD GRIP AND FLEXIBLE WIRED TO A BRASS LAMPHOLDER TERMINAL .... 74
FIGURE 27 INTERNALLY THREADED LAMPHOLDER ................................................................... 74
FIGURE 28 BATTEN HOLDER .............................................................................................................. 75
FIGURE 29 PUSH BAR SWITCH LAMP HOLDER .............................................................................. 75
FIGURE 30 EXPLODED VIEW OF GOLIATH SCREW LAMPHOLDER........................................... 75
FIGURE 31 CEILING ROSE .................................................................................................................... 76
FIGURE 32 MODERN FORM OF MOULDED CEILING ROSE .......................................................... 76
FIGURE 33 SWITCHES SHOWING VARIOUS PLUGS ....................................................................... 76
FIGURE 34 SWITCHES SHOWING VARIOUS PLUGS ....................................................................... 77
FIGURE 35 HRC FUSES .......................................................................................................................... 79
FIGURE 36 CONSTRUCTION OF HRC FUSE ...................................................................................... 79
FIGURE 37 DISTRIBUTION BOARD .................................................................................................... 79
FIGURE 38 CONSUMER CONTROL UNIT .......................................................................................... 81
FIGURE 39 STRANDED CONDUCTOR ................................................................................................ 83
FIGURE 40 TWISTED TWIN FLEX ....................................................................................................... 85
FIGURE 41 CIRCULAR FLEX, RUBBER SHEATHED ........................................................................ 85
FIGURE 42 WORKSHOP (OR INDUSTRIAL) FLEX ........................................................................... 85
18
FIGURE 43 SOME DECORATIVE GLS LAMP SHAPES ..................................................................... 88
FIGURE 44 TUNGSTEN HALOGEN DICHRONIC LAMP .................................................................. 89
FIGURE 45 FLUORESCENT LAMP CONSTRUCTION ....................................................................... 90
FIGURE 46 FLUORESCENT LAMP CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENT ...................................................... 90
FIGURE 47 ENERGY EFFICIENT LAMPS............................................................................................ 91
FIGURE 48 STRIPPING CABLE ........................................................................................................... 101
FIGURE 49 SECTION THROUGH SOLDERED SOCKET ................................................................. 103
FIGURE 50 STRAIGHT-THROUGH JOINT USING WEAK-BACKED FERRULE.......................... 103
FIGURE 51 TEE (BREECHES) JOINT.................................................................................................. 104
FIGURE 52 P.V.C ARMOURED CABLE ............................................................................................. 105
FIGURE 53 CONDUIT FITTINGS AND SADDLES ............................................................................ 117
FIGURE 54 CABLE DRUM ................................................................................................................... 119
FIGURE 55 ALTERNATIVE TRUNKING BENDS ............................................................................. 121
FIGURE 56 TYPICAL INSTALLATION OF SKIRTING TRUNKING AND MINI-TRUNKING .... 122
FIGURE 57 INSTALLATION OF TRUNKING (A) FIRE BARRIERS IN TRUNKING (B) CABLE
SUPPORT IN VERTICAL TRUNKING ......................................................................................... 123
FIGURE 58 CABLE TRAY INSTALLATIONS .................................................................................... 125
FIGURE 59 CABLE DUCTS .................................................................................................................. 126
FIGURE 60 ONE-WAY SWITCH .......................................................................................................... 128
FIGURE 61 TWO-WAY SWITCHES .................................................................................................... 129
FIGURE 62 INTERMEDIATE SWITCH CONTROL ........................................................................... 129
FIGURE 63 SERIES CONNECTION ..................................................................................................... 130
FIGURE 64 PARALLEL CONNECTION .............................................................................................. 131
FIGURE 65 LIGHTING FINAL CIRCUIT ............................................................................................ 132
FIGURE 66 LOOPING-IN METHOD OF WIRING .............................................................................. 132
FIGURE 67 LOOPING-IN FROM A SWITCH ..................................................................................... 133
FIGURE 68 LOOPING -IN FROM A THREE PLATE CEILING ROSE ............................................. 133
FIGURE 69 PLUG ................................................................................................................................... 136
FIGURE 70 LAYOUT DIAGRAM OF A RADIAL CIRCUIT ............................................................. 136
FIGURE 71 WIRING DIAGRAM FOR RADIAL CIRCUIT ................................................................ 137
FIGURE 72 WIRING DIAGRAM FOR A RING CIRCUIT. ................................................................. 137
FIGURE 73 IMMERSION WATER WIRING ....................................................................................... 139
FIGURE 74 A SIMPLE NORMALLY OPEN FIRE ALARM ............................................................... 141
FIGURE 75 A SIMPLE NORMALLY CLOSED FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT......................................... 142
FIGURE 76 BREAKGLASS MANUAL CALL POINT ........................................................................ 142
FIGURE 77 TYPICAL FIRE ALARM SOUNDERS ............................................................................. 143
FIGURE 78 SINGLE STROKE BELL/TREMBLER BELL .................................................................. 143
FIGURE 79 DIRECT ON LINE STARTER ........................................................................................... 144
FIGURE 80 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM FOR STAR DELTA STARTER ............................................. 145
19
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1: COMMON UNITS OF LEARNING .................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
TABLE 2 CORE UNITS OF LEARNING ............................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
TABLE 3 DIMENSIONS FOR A PAPER SERIES.................................................................................. 45
TABLE 4 SUMMARY OF CHARACTERISTICS OF ALUMINUM AND COPPER ........................... 82
TABLE 5 COMPARISON BETWEEN T.R.S AND P.V.C CABLE ....................................................... 84
TABLE 6 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF M.I.M.S .................................................... 106
TABLE 7 CONDUIT FACTORS ADAPTED FROM IEE REGULATIONS ....................................... 120
TABLE 8 TRUNKING CABLE FACTORS ADAPTER FROM THE IEE ON SITE GUIDE BY KIND
PERMISSION OF THE INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS ................................... 124
TABLE 9 TRUNKING CABLE FACTOR. ADAPTED FROM THE IEE ON SITE GUIDE BY KIND
PERMISSION OF INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS ........................................... 124
TABLE 10 IEE REGULATIONS SHOWING THE PROTECTIVE RATINGS FOR DIFFERENT
TYPES OF LAMPS.......................................................................................................................... 134
20
Background Information
This learning guide will enable the trainee to acquire competencies to undertake various processes in
Electrical Installation. It provides practical and theoretical learning activities, simplified content,
illustrations and self-assessment items to guide the trainee in the learning process. It also provides links
and references for further reading.
Layout of the Trainee Guide
Performance standards: These are obtained from the performance criteria statements in the related unit
of competency of the Occupational Standards (OS).
Information Sheet: This section covers information relating to the specific learning outcome. This
information should include but not limited to meaning of terms, methods, processes/ procedures/
guidelines, Illustrations (photographs, pictures, videos, charts, plans, digital content links, simulations
links) and case studies. This section also provides additional information sources relevant to the learning
outcome e.g., books, web links.
Learning activities: This section covers practical activities related to the Performance Criteria
statements, Knowledge in relation to Performance Criteria as given under content in the curriculum
Special instructions related to learning activities.
Self-Assessment: This section must be related to the Performance Criteria, Required Knowledge and
Skills in the Occupational Standards. This section requires the trainee to evaluate their acquisition of
skills, knowledge and attitude in relation to the learning outcome. A variety of assessment items such as
written and practical tests which emphasizes on the application of knowledge, skills and attitude is
recommended.
The self-assessment items should be valid, relevant and comprehensive to the level of qualification in
the learning outcome.
Tools, equipment, materials and supplies: This section should provide for the requirements of the
learning outcome in terms of tools, equipment, supplies and materials. The section should be adequate,
relevant and comprehensive for the learning outcome.
References: Information sources should be quoted and presented as required in the APA format
The units of learning covered in this learning guide are as presented in the table below:
21
ENG/CU/EI/CC/03/5/A
22
CHAPPTER 1: ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS
Unit of learning code: ENG/CU/EI/CC/1/5
a. Working from the left evaluate divisions and multiplications as they are encountered
b. Working from the left evaluate additions and subtraction as they are
The four basic arithmetic operations are: addition and subtraction, multiplication and division
The order of precedence of operations for problems containing fractions is the same as that for integers,
i.e. remembered by BODMAS (Brackets, Of, Division, Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction).
Rules that govern basic laws of arithmetic:
1. Commutativity
Two integers can be added or multiplied in either order without affecting the result. For example:
5 + 8 = 8 + 5 = 13 𝑎𝑛𝑑 5 × 8 = 8 × 5 = 40
Addition and multiplication are commutative operations, whereas subtraction and division are not
commutative operations.
4 − 2 ≠ 2 − 4 𝑎𝑠 4 − 2 = 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2 − 4 = −2
4 ÷ 2 ≠ 2 ÷ 4 𝑎𝑠 4 ÷ 2 = 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2 ÷ 4 = 0.5
2. Associativity
The way in which three or more integers are associated under addition or multiplication does not affect
the result.
3. Distributivity
Multiplication is distributed over addition and subtraction from both the right and left.
Division is distributed over addition and subtraction from the right but not from the left.
Adding two numbers gives their sum and subtracting two numbers gives their difference. For example:
7 + 3 = 10
7−3= 4
24
3 − 7 = −4
Adding a negative number is the same as subtracting its positive counterpart. For example:
7 + (−2) = 5
Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding its positive counterpart. For example:
7 − (−2) = 9
Multiplying two numbers gives their product while dividing two positive and negative numbers gives their
quotient.
Multiplying and dividing two positive or two negative numbers gives a positive number.
Fractions
2
When 2 is divided by 3, it may be written as 3is called a fraction. The number above the line, i.e. 2, is
called the numerator and the number below the line, i.e. 3, is called the denominator. When the value of
2
the numerator is less than the value of the denominator, the fraction is called a proper fraction; thus 3 is a
proper fraction. When the value of the numerator is greater than the denominator, the fraction is called
7
an improper fraction. Thus 3 is an improper fraction and can also be expressed as a mixed number, that
7 1
is, an integer and a proper fraction. Thus the improper fraction 3 is equal to the mixed number 23
When a fraction is simplified by dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number, the
process is called cancelling. Cancelling by 0 is not permissible.
1 2
Simplify: 3 + 7
The lowest common multiple (i.e. LCM) of the two denominators is 3 d 7, i.e. 21
Expressing each fraction so that their denominators are 21, gives:
1 2 1 7 2 3 7 6 13
+ = × + × = + =
3 7 3 7 7 3 21 21 21
1 2 1 3 1
Simplify: 3 − (5 + 4) ÷ (8 × 3)
25
1 2 1 3 1 1 4×2+1×5 3
Solution 3 − (5 + 4) ÷ (8 × 3) = 3 − ( ) ÷ (24)
20
1 13 1 1 13 8
− ÷ = − ×
3 20 8 3 20 1
1 26 (1×5)−(26×3) −73 13
− = = = −4 15
3 5 15 15
Decimals
The decimal system of numbers is based on the digits 0 to 9. A number such as 53.17 is called a decimal
fraction, a decimal point separating the integer part, i.e. 53, from the fractional part, i.e. 0.17
A number which can be expressed exactly as a decimal fraction is called a terminating decimal and those
3
which cannot be expressed exactly as a decimal fraction are called non-terminating decimals. Thus, 2 =
4
1.5 is a terminating decimal, but 3 = 1.3333 is a non-terminating decimal. 1.33333…can be written as
Square root
1
1
The square root of a number is when the index is2, and the square root of 2 is written as 22 21/2 or√2.
There are always two answers when finding the square root of a number and this is shown by putting
both a + and a - sign in front of the answer to a square root problem.
26
Ratios and proportions
The ratio of one quantity to another is a fraction, and is the number of times one quantity is contained in
another quantity of the same kind. If one quantity is directly proportional to another, then as one quantity
doubles, the other quantity also doubles. When a quantity is inversely proportional to another, then as
one quantity doubles, the other quantity is halved.
An alloy is made up of metals A and B in the ratio 2.5: 1 by mass. How much of A has to be added to 6
kg of B to make the alloy?
𝐴 2.5
Ratio A: B: 2.5: 1 (i.e. A is to B as 2.5 is to 1) or 𝐵 = = 2.5
1
𝐴
When B = 6 kg, = 2.5 from which,
6
𝐴 = 6 × 2.5 = 15𝑘𝑔
Conversions into percentages
Percentages are used to give a common standard and are fractions having the number 100 as their
25 1
denominators. For example, 25 per cent means 100 i.e. 4 and is written 25%.
Inversely proportional: when one value decreases at the same rate the other increases.
i. Type the number you are to work with in your scientific calculator.
ii. Press the “log” button on the calculator.
27
iii. From your screen, obtain the exponent from the original number you entered.
iv. Check your results.
1.2.1.4 Learning Activities
1 1 2 1 1
1. Create an instruction sheet with the following five fractions: 3 , 8 , 3 , 4 𝑎𝑛𝑑 5
Create a pizza (circular cut outs), using construction paper and decorate the toppings to represent
each fraction.
For example, if they had a quarter (fourth), they should cover one-quarter of the pizza with a
specific pattern.
2. Using your calculator check that you agree with the answers to the following problems:
Evaluate the following, correct to 4 significant figures:
a. 4.7826 + 0.02713 = 4.80973 = 4.810
b. 21.93 × 0.012981 = 0.2846733 = 0.2847
Evaluate the following, correct to 3 decimal places:
a. √0.007328
b. √52.91 − √31.76
1.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
1. Place the appropriate symbol < 𝑜𝑟 > between each of the following pairs of numbers:
a. 3 _ 2
b. 8 _ -13
c. -25 _ 0
2. Find the value of each of the following:
a. 𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗 ÷ 𝟑 − 𝟐 × 𝟓
b. (𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗) ÷ (𝟑 − 𝟐) × 𝟓
3. Complete the following:
𝟒
a. =
𝟓
b. 𝟒𝟖% 𝒐𝒇 𝟓𝟎 =
4. Write the following proportions as ratios:
𝟏 𝟏 𝟑
a. 𝒐𝒇 𝑨, 𝟓 𝒐𝒇 𝑩, 𝟏𝟎 𝒐𝒇 𝑪
𝟐
6. Round each of the following decimal numbers, first to 3 significant figures and to 2
decimal places:
a. 21.355
28
b. 0.02456
1.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
• Calculator
• Paper and pencil
• Computer
• Ruler and graph paper
• Marker pen
1.2.1.7 References
Stroud K. A. (2001). Engineering Mathematics. Fifth Edition. North America: Industrial Press,
Inc.
John Bird. (2003). Engineering Mathematics. Fourth Edition. London, UK: Newnes Elsevier
Science
1.2.1.8 Answers to Self-Assessment
1. Place the appropriate symbol < 𝑜𝑟 > between each of the following pairs of numbers:
a. 3>2
b. 8>-13
c. -25 < 0
2. Find the value of each of the following:
a. 𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗 ÷ 𝟑 − 𝟐 × 𝟓
13 + (9 ÷ 3) − (2 × 5)
13 + 3 − 10 = (13 + 3) − 10 = 6
b. (𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗) ÷ (𝟑 − 𝟐) × 𝟓
(13 + 9) ÷ (3 − 2) × 5 = 22 ÷ 1 × 5 = (22 ÷ 1) × 5 = 110
3. Complete the following:
𝟒
a. 𝑎𝑠 𝑎 % =
𝟓
4
× 100 = 80%
5
b. 𝟒𝟖% 𝒐𝒇 𝟓𝟎 =
48
× 50 = 24
100
4. Write the following proportions as ratios:
𝟏 𝟏 𝟑
a. 𝒐𝒇 𝑨, 𝟓 𝒐𝒇 𝑩, 𝟏𝟎 𝒐𝒇 𝑪
𝟐
29
5. Reduce each of the following to their lowest form:
𝟏𝟐
a. 𝟏𝟖
12 12 ÷ 6 2
= =
18 18 ÷ 6 3
𝟏𝟒𝟒
b. 𝟐𝟏
144 144 ÷ 3 48 6
= = =4
21 21 ÷ 3 7 7
6. Round each of the following decimal numbers, first to 3 significant figures and to 2 decimal
places:
a. 21.355
21.4 3sf
21.36 2dp
b. 0.02456
0.025 2sf
0.03 2dp
1.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Use formulae and algebraic expressions for work
1.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers algebra and the learner should be able to: perform calculations involving
Indices as per the concept; perform calculations involving Logarithms as per the concept; use scientific
calculator is used mathematical problems in line with manufacturer’s manual; perform simultaneous
equations as per the rules. Algebra is used throughout engineering, but it is most commonly used in
mechanical, electrical, and civil branches due to the variety of obstacles they face. Engineers need to
find dimensions, slopes, and ways to efficiently create any structure or object.
1.2.2.2 Performance Standard
1.2.2.3 Algebraic linear equation
1.2.2.4 Simultaneous
1.2.2.5 Quadratic
1.2.2.6 Linear graphs
1. Plotting
2. Interpretation
3. Applications of linear graphs
30
4. Curves of first and second degree
5. Plotting
6. Interpretation
7. Applications
1.2.3 Information Sheet
1.2.3.1 Definitions of terms
Algebra is the study of mathematical symbols and the rules for manipulating these symbols; it is a
unifying thread of almost all of mathematics. It includes everything from elementary equation solving to
the study of abstractions such as groups, rings, and fields.
Logarithms: This is the power to which a number must be raised in order to get some other number which
means that logarithms is the inverse of the exponential.
Linear equations: A linear equation is any equation of the form 𝒂 + 𝒃𝒙=0 where a and b are real numbers
and 𝒙 is a variable.
Quadratic equation: It is any equation of the form a𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄.It is any equation of the second degree
meaning that one of its terms is a squared.
The lowest factors of 2000 are 2×2×2×2×5×5×5. These factors are written as 24 × 53, where 2 and 5
are called bases and the numbers 4 and 3 are called indices. When an index is an integer it is called a
power. Thus, 24 is called ‘two to the power of four’, and has a base of 2 and an index of 4.
Given𝒃𝒙 , b is known as the base and x is known as the power or index to which b is raised. It can be
interpreted as:
𝒃𝒙 = 𝒃 × 𝒃 × 𝒃 … … … … … … (𝒙 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔)
The reciprocal of a number is when the index is _1 and its value is given by 1, divided by the base.
𝟏
𝟏
The square root of a number is when the index is𝟐, and the square root of 2 is written as 𝟐𝟐 or√𝟐. The
value of a square root is the value of the base which when multiplied by itself gives the number.
Laws of indices
When simplifying calculations involving indices, certain basic rules or laws can be applied, called the
laws of indices.
For any number 𝒙 and 𝒚 the following basic laws hold;
31
𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙 = 𝒂𝒙+𝒚
𝒂𝒙
= 𝒂𝒙−𝒚
𝒂𝒚
(𝒂𝒙 )𝒚 = 𝒂𝒙𝒚
𝒙
𝒚
𝒂𝒚 = √𝒂𝒙
𝟏
𝒂−𝒚 = 𝒂𝒚
𝒂𝟎 = 1
Note: The above law only applies if bases are similar e.g. 𝟐𝟑 . 𝟐𝟒 = 𝟐𝟕 =𝟏𝟐𝟖
𝒂𝒙
= 𝒂𝒙−𝒚
𝒂𝒙
Example:
𝟐𝟒 𝒂𝟏
= 𝟐𝟒−𝟑 = 𝟐𝟏 =𝟐. If 𝒙 and 𝒚 equals one, 𝒙 = 𝟏, 𝒚 = 𝟏 then = 𝒂𝟏−𝟏 = 𝒂𝟎 =1
𝟐𝟑 𝒂𝟏
Example:
(𝒂𝟑 )𝟐 = 𝒂𝟔 = (𝒂𝟐 )𝟑
(𝒂𝒃)𝒙 = 𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙
Example:
(𝒂𝒃)𝟒 = 𝒂𝟒 𝒃𝟒
𝟏
NB: The expression 𝒂−𝒙 is equivalent to 𝒙
𝟏 𝒂𝟎
= = 𝒂𝟎−𝒙 = 𝒂−𝒙
𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙
Steps
Let 𝟐𝒙 = 𝒑
Factorize 𝒑𝟐 + 𝟒𝒑 − 𝟑𝟐 = 𝟎
𝒑𝟐 + 𝟖𝒑 − 𝟒𝒑 − 𝟑𝟐 = 𝟎
𝑷(𝑷 + 𝟖) − 𝟒(𝑷 + 𝟖) = 𝟎
(𝑷 − 𝟒) (𝒑 + 𝟖) = 𝟎
𝑷 = 𝟒 𝟎𝒓 𝒑 = −𝟖
Laws of logarithms
𝑨
𝑳𝒐𝒈 𝑨 − 𝑳𝒐𝒈 𝑩 = Log𝑩
Example:
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟔 − 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟑
𝟔
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟔 − 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟑 =𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 = 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟐
𝟑
Log 𝑩𝒏 = 𝒏 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝑩
Example:
Steps
Distribute (𝒙 + 𝟒)(𝟔) = 𝟔𝒙 + 𝟐𝟒
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟐 (𝟔𝒙 + 𝟐𝟒) = 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟐 𝟓𝟒
𝒙=𝟓
A scientific calculator is a special electronic calculator that aids the calculation involving problems in
mathematics, engineering and science. It can be used in the following ways;
v. Type the number you are to work with in your scientific calculator.
vi. Press the “log” button on the calculator.
vii. From your screen, obtain the exponent from the original number you entered.
viii. Check your results.
Obtainment of solution to system of linear equations involving three unknowns
Steps
34
iv. Substitute the solution back into one of the equations and solve for the third variable.
v. Confirm your solution by the use of one of the equations.
Example:
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒁 = 𝟑𝟒
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
𝒂𝒏𝒅
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒁 = 𝟑𝟒
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
Simplify
𝟒𝒙 − 𝟑𝒚 + 𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
𝟒𝒙 − 𝟑𝒚 + 𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
−𝟒𝒙 − 𝟐𝒚 − 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟓𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
Simplify
35
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = 𝟏𝟕
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
𝟓𝒚 − 𝟕𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
−𝟓𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟓𝒚 − 𝟕𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
−𝟏𝟐𝒛 = 𝟐𝟒
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟏𝟕
−𝟐 + 𝟒(𝟒) − 𝟏𝟎(−𝟐) = 𝟏𝟕
−𝟐𝒙 = −𝟐 𝒙=𝟏
Also, quadratic equations can be solved through the completing squares method.
By the use of the graphical method.
Example:
Solve using the quadratic formula;
𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏 = 𝟎
Solution:
𝐚=𝟏
36
𝐛=𝟐
𝐜=𝟏
−𝒃 ±√𝒃𝟐 −𝟒𝒂𝒄
𝒙= 𝟐𝒂
−𝟐 ±√𝟐𝟐 −𝟒×𝟏×𝟏
𝒙= 𝟐×𝟏
𝒃𝟐 − 𝟒𝒂𝒄 = 𝟐𝟐 − 𝟒 × 𝟏 × 𝟏 = 𝟎
−𝟐 ±√𝟎
𝒙= 𝟐×𝟏
−𝟐
= 𝟐×𝟏 = 𝟏
Calculations involving sequence and series are performed as per the concept
A sequence are numbers or functions arranged in a special order while series is the sum of sequence of
terms.
• Arithmetic sequence: is a set of the numbers that follows a pattern formed by adding a common
difference to the proceeding number.
• Geometric sequence: is a set of numbers that are multiplied (or divided) by a constant called the
common ratio.
Types of series
Arithmetic series is the sum of the terms of arithmetic sequence while geometric series is the sum of the
terms of the geometric sequence. The 𝒏𝒕𝒉 term of the arithmetic sequence is given by 𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅
𝒏
while the sum of terms in the series is given by𝟐 [𝟐𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅 ]. The 𝒏𝒕𝒉 term of a G.P is given
𝒂𝒏
by𝒂𝒓𝒏−𝟏 . The sum of the infinite terms of the series 𝒔𝒏 =𝟏−𝒓
𝒏
Use the formula 𝟐 [𝟐𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅 ]
𝟏𝟎
[𝟐(𝟏) + (𝟏𝟎 − 𝟏)𝟑 ]
𝟐
In the geometric sequence𝟐, 𝟒, 𝟖, 𝟏𝟔, 𝟑𝟐. Find the sum of the first 10 terms.
38
Figure 2: Hexagonal Puzzle 2
2. Perform a survey in your locality (in around 50 homesteads) and find out the total number of
rabbits’ population. It is believed that the population will increase by 2% every year. Predict the
rabbit population after 3 years.
1.2.5 Self-Assessment
𝟏 𝟏
1. Find the value of𝟒𝒑𝟐 𝒒𝒓𝟑 , given that 𝒑 = 𝟐, 𝒒 = 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒓 = 𝟏
𝟐 𝟐
7. Simplify:
𝟑 𝟏
(𝒂𝟑 √𝒃√𝒄𝟓 )(√𝒂√𝒃𝒄𝟑 ) And evaluate when 𝒂 = 𝟒 , 𝒃 = 𝟔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄 = 𝟏
1.2.7 References
Anto H & Lolles, C (2013). Elementary Linear Algebra: Applications version
Wilkinson, J.H Beur F.l& Reisch, (2013) Linear Algebra (Vol 12) Springer.
Solution:
Replacing p, q and r with their numerical values gives:
𝟏 𝟑 𝟑
𝟒𝒑𝟐 𝒒𝒓𝟑 = 𝟒(𝟐) × (𝟐𝟐 ) × 𝟐 × ((𝟐) ) = 𝟐𝟕
𝒙𝟐 𝒚
6. Simplify: 𝒙𝒚𝟐 −𝒙𝒚
The highest common factor (HCF) of each of the three terms comprising the numerator and denominator
is xy. Dividing each term by xy gives:
𝒙𝟐 𝒚
𝒙𝟐 𝒚 𝒙𝒚 𝒙
= 𝒙 𝒙𝒚 = 𝒚−𝟏
𝒙𝒚𝟐 −𝒙𝒚 −
𝒙𝒚 𝒙𝒚
7. Simplify:
𝟑 𝟏
(𝒂𝟑 √𝒃√𝒄𝟓 )(√𝒂√𝒃𝒄𝟑 ) And evaluate when 𝒂 = , 𝒃 = 𝟔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄 = 𝟏
𝟒
Using the fourth law of indices, the expression can be written as:
𝟏 𝟓 𝟏 𝟐
(𝒂𝟑 𝒃𝟐 𝒄𝟐 ) (𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟑 𝒄𝟑 )
40
Using the first law of indices gives:
𝟏 𝟏 𝟐 𝟓 𝟕 𝟕 𝟏𝟏
𝒂𝟑+𝟐 𝒃𝟐+𝟑 𝒄𝟐+𝟑 = 𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟔 𝒄 𝟐
It is usual to express the answer in the same form as the question. Hence:
𝟕 𝟕 𝟏𝟏
𝟔 𝟏 𝟕 𝟔
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟔 𝒄 𝟐 = √𝒂𝟕 √𝒃𝟕 √𝒄𝟏𝟏 = √(𝟒) ( √𝟔𝟕 )(√𝟏𝟏𝟏 )=1
41
2 Learning Outcome 3: Use trigonometry to solve practical work problems
2.2.2 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers applications of trigonometric rules, identities the calculation of area,
perimeter of shapes and solids .it also covers one to one relationships and calculation involving hyperbolic
functions and identities.
Hyperbolic function: This is a function of an angle that is defined for the hyperbola, not on the circle.
One to one function: A function said to be one to one if different elements in 𝒂 map different element in
𝒃.
Figure 3: Circle
𝒃
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽 = 𝒄
𝒂
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝜽 = 𝒄
𝒃
𝒕𝒂𝒏 =
𝒂
𝒂𝟐 + 𝒃𝟐 = 𝒄𝟐
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐
+ 𝒄𝟐 = 𝟏
𝒄𝟐
42
Some of the trigonometric rules are;
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝟐 𝜽 + 𝟏 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
Note:
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝜽 = 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
𝟏
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝜽 = 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽
𝟏
𝒔𝒆𝒄𝜽 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
𝒕𝒂𝒏𝜽 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
Dividing (𝒊) by
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽
𝟏 + 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
𝒕𝒂𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
The double angle formula can then be given as 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝑨 = 𝑨 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝑨 + 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑨
From the above relationship, we derive the half angle formula; that is
𝑨
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 = 𝟐 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 (𝟐) − 𝟏
43
Therefore, 𝟐𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 (𝑨⁄𝟐) = 𝟏 − 𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝑩
𝟏+𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 𝟏−𝑪𝑶𝑺𝒂
𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝑨⁄𝟐) = ±√ and 𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝑨⁄𝟐) = ±√
𝟐 𝟐
Example
Solution
𝟐 𝟑 𝟐 𝟏
= √𝟐 . √𝟐 + √𝟐 . √𝟐
𝟐
= √𝟒 (√𝟑 + 𝟏)
𝑸𝑽
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑩 = 𝑪𝒐𝒔𝑨 = 𝑸𝑽 = 𝑪𝒐𝒔𝑨𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑩
Similarly;
44
𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝑨 + 𝑩) = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝑨𝒄𝒐𝒔𝑩 − 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑨𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑩
These functions are expressed as exponential functions and are generally expressed as hyperbolic sine or
hyperbolic cosine, where other relationships can be derived.
Hyperbolic identities are obtained from the hyperbolic trigonometric functions. i.e
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐡 𝒙 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙+𝒆−𝒙
𝟐
𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒉 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝟐
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝟐 𝒙 − 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝟏
𝟏 − 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉𝟐 𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝒉𝟐 𝒙 − 𝟏 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉𝟐 𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡(−𝒙) = − 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝒙 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡(−𝒙)
Examples
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉 𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
Solution
𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
45
𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝟏𝟐𝟐𝒙 − 𝟖𝒆−𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
𝟔𝒆𝟒𝒙 − 𝟓𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒 = 𝟎
(𝟑𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒)(𝟐𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎
𝟒 𝟏
𝒆𝟐𝒙 = 𝟑 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝟐𝒙 = − 𝟐
𝟏 𝟒
𝒙 = 𝟐 𝓵𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒄𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝟐𝒙 > 𝟎
𝟑
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
Most of the properties are similar tom properties of trigonometric functions. For example; cosh function
is even while 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 function is odd. The only difference in properties is,
(𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙)𝟐 − (𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙)𝟐
Examples
Solution
𝒆𝟓 −𝒆−𝟓
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟓 = 𝟐
= 𝟕𝟒. 𝟐. 𝟑 𝒕𝒐 𝟑 𝒅. 𝒑
= 𝟏. 𝟓𝟒𝟑
Given the value of x, one is able to calculate inverse of the hyperbolic functions
46
2.2.5 Learning Activities
1. Prove the following hyperbolic identities, use the definition of 𝑠𝑖𝑛ℎ𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑠ℎ𝑥 in terms of
exponential functions
a) cos ℎ2 𝑥 − sin ℎ2 𝑥 = 1
b) 1 − 𝑡𝑎𝑛ℎ2 𝑥 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ2 𝑥
c) 𝑐𝑜𝑡ℎ2 𝑥 − 1 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ2 𝑥
2. On graph papers:
2.2.6 Self-Assessment
1) Solve the following equation in terms of a natural logarithm.
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑨+𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑩 𝑨+𝑩
4) Prove that: 𝑪𝒐𝒔 𝑨+𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑩 = 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝟐
47
• SMP tables
• Measuring tables
• Graph Papers
• Pens and Pencils
2.2.8 References
Mikusinski J. (2014).Operational Calculus .Elsevier.
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉 𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
Solution
𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝟐𝒙 =
𝟐
𝟏𝟐𝟐𝒙 − 𝟖𝒆−𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
𝟔𝒆𝟒𝒙 − 𝟓𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒 = 𝟎
(𝟑𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒)(𝟐𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎
𝟒 𝟏
𝒆𝟐𝒙 = 𝟑 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝟐𝒙 = − 𝟐
𝟏 𝟒
𝒙 = 𝟐 𝓵𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒄𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝟐𝒙 > 𝟎
𝟑
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
48
ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑒
𝑇𝑎𝑛 60° =
𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤
ℎ
𝑇𝑎𝑛 60° = 8√3
Table 1: SI Units
50
Table 2: SI Prefix Symbols
𝐏= 𝐱+𝐱+𝐲+𝐲
𝐏 = 𝟐𝐱 + 𝟐𝐲
51
P=2(x+y)
𝐏=𝟕+𝟕+𝟒+𝟒
𝐏=𝟐⋅𝟕+𝟐⋅𝟒
𝐏 = 𝟐 ⋅ (𝟕 + 𝟒)
𝐏 = 𝟐 ⋅ 𝟏𝟏
𝐏 = 𝟐𝟐𝐦
Area
Area is the measurement of the surface of a shape. To find the area of a rectangle or a square you need to
multiply the length and the width of a rectangle or a square.
Area, A, is x times y.
𝑨=𝒙⋅𝒚
Examples:
𝐀=𝐱⋅𝐲
𝐀=𝟓⋅𝟔
𝐀 = 𝟑𝟎𝐦𝟐
There are different units for perimeter and area. Perimeter has the same units as the length of the sides of
rectangle or square whereas the area's unit is squared.
52
Obtain volume and surface area of solids
The surface area of a figure is defined as the sum of the areas of the exposed sides of an object.
The volume of an object is the amount of three-dimensional space an object takes up. It can be thought
of as the number of cubes that are one unit by one unit by one unit that it takes to fill up an object.
𝐒𝐀 = 𝟐(𝐥𝐰 + 𝐥𝐡 + 𝐰𝐡)
Volume
Volume of a Solid with a Matching Base and Top
V=Ah
A = area of the base of the solid
h = height of the solid
Volume of a Rectangular Solid (specific type of solid with matching base and top)
V= 𝑙 × 𝑤 × ℎ
l = length of the base of the solid
w = width of the base of the solid
h = height of the solid
Example:
2.7
4.2 3.8
Based on the way our box is sitting, we can say that the length of the base is 4.2 m; the width of the base
is 3.8 m; and the height of the solid is 2.7 m. Thus, we can quickly find the volume of the box to be:
𝐕 = 𝐥𝐰𝐡 = 𝟒. 𝟐 ×
𝟑. 𝟖 × 𝟐. 𝟕 = 𝟒𝟑. 𝟎𝟗𝟐𝒎𝟑
A cylinder
53
A cylinder is an object with straight sides and circular ends of the same size. The volume of a cylinder
can be found in the same way you find the volume of a solid with a matching base and top. The surface
area of a cylinder can be easily found when you realize that you have to find the area of the circular base
and top and add that to the area of the sides. If you slice the side of the cylinder in a straight line from top
to bottom and open it up, you will see that it makes a rectangle. The base of the rectangle is the
circumference of the circular base, and the height of the rectangle is the height of the cylinder.
Volume of a cylinder
V=Ah
SA=2(πr2)+2πrh
12 cm
10
cm
𝐒𝐀 = 𝟐(𝛑𝐫𝟐) + 𝟐𝛑𝐫𝐡
Vernier Caliper is a widely used linear measurement instrument with a least count of 0.02 mm. It is used
to measure linear dimensions like length, diameter and depth.
54
Micrometer
Steel scale is single piece linear measuring instrument. Steel scale indicates two units that are cm and
inches, cm division on one side and inches, on another side.
Measuring tape.
Ruler and Rule
Performing measurements and estimations of quantities
3.2.5 Learning Activities
1. In this particular activity, apples will be used to practice math skills of estimation and measurement of
the circumference of an apple.
Materials you’ll need:
• An apple
• A ruler
• Scissors
• Thread
a) You begin by placing the apple in front of your students. Let them hold the apple to ascertain its
circumference. Encourage your students to cut the yarn to a length that they feel would properly
wrap around the apple. This will require estimation on their part.
b) Use multiple apples of varying sizes, and have students estimate the amount of string that they’ll
need for each measurement.
c) Use the ruler to measure the string.
d) After determining whether they’re too long or too short, have your students cut a second string to try
to get closer to the circumference of the apple.
3.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. A rectangular tray is 820 mm long and 400 mm wide. Find its area in: (a) 𝑚𝑚2 (b) 𝑚2 (c) 𝑐𝑚2
2. Calculate the areas of the following sectors of circles having:
(a) Radius 6 cm with angle subtended at center 50°
𝜃2
Area of sector of a circle= 360 (𝜋𝑟 2 )
O'Neil, P.V. (1995), Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 4th ed., PWS-Kent Pub. (Boston).
1𝑚2 = 10000𝑐𝑚2
3280
Hence: 3280𝑐𝑚2 = 10000 = 0.3280𝑚2
𝟏 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒓𝒆 = 𝟏𝟎𝟎𝟎𝒄𝒎𝟑
Hence:
750000
750000𝑐𝑚3 = = 750𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠
1000
4. Find the volume and total surface area of a cylinder of length 15 cm and diameter 8 cm
Volume of cylinder= 𝜋𝑟 2 ℎ
Since diameter= 8𝑐𝑚, then radius = 4𝑐𝑚
Hence:
𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 = 𝜋 × 42 × 15 = 754𝑐𝑚3
Total surface area = 2𝜋𝑟ℎ + 2𝜋𝑟 2 = 477.5𝑐𝑚2
4 Learning Outcome 5: Apply Matrices in work
4.2.2 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers: Matrix definition, types, matrix operations, compatibility and
determination of inverse of a matrix, solving simultaneous equations with two and three and application
of the matrices.
57
Determinant: It is a physical quantity/value assigned to any square matrix.
𝒂 𝒃
E.g. given [ ] = 𝒂𝒅 − 𝒄𝒅
𝒄 𝒅
Inverse: The inverse of a matrix 𝑸−𝟏 is the matrix than when multiplied by the original matrix 𝑸 gives
the identity matrix. i.e. 𝑸 𝑸−𝟏 =𝑰.
Matrices
The numbers within a matrix are called an array and the coefficients forming the array are called the
elements of the matrix. The number of rows in a matrix is usually specified by m and the number of
𝟐 𝟑 𝟔
columns by n and a matrix referred to as an ‘m by n’ matrix. Thus, ( ) is a ‘2 by 3’ matrix?
𝟒 𝟓 𝟕
Type of matrix
The numbers within a matrix are called an array and the coefficients forming the array are called the
elements of the matrix. The number of rows in a matrix is usually specified by m and the number of
columns by n and a matrix referred to as an ‘m by n’ matrix.
Matrix Operations
In describing the matrix, the number of rows the number of rows is stated first and the number of columns
second. i.e.
6 3
(2 4) is a matrix of order of 3× 2
5 1
Compatibility
Addition
58
−𝟏 −𝟏
=( )
𝟎 𝟎
Subtraction
If A is a matrix and B is another matrix, then (A_B) is a single matrix formed by subtracting the
elements of B from the corresponding elements of A.
Problem 2. Subtract
−𝟑 𝟎 𝟐 −𝟏
( )− ( )
𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒
To find matrix A minus matrix B, the elements of B are taken from the corresponding elements of A.
Thus:
−𝟑 𝟎 𝟐 −𝟏
( )− ( )
𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒
−𝟑 − 𝟐 𝟎 − −𝟏
( )
𝟕 − −𝟕 −𝟒 − 𝟒
−𝟓 𝟏
( )
𝟏𝟒 −𝟖
Multiplication
When a matrix is multiplied by a number, called scalar multiplication, a single matrix results in which
each element of the original matrix has been multiplied by the number.
Problem 4.
−𝟑 𝟎 −𝟐 −𝟏 −𝟏 𝟎
If A =( ), B = ( ) and C = ( )
−𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒 −𝟐 −𝟒
Find
2A – 3B + 4C
For scalar multiplication, each element is multiplied by the scalar quantity, hence
−𝟑 𝟎 −𝟔 𝟎
2A = 2 ( )=( )
−𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟏𝟒 −𝟖
−𝟐 −𝟏 −𝟔 −𝟑
3B = 3( )=( )
−𝟕 𝟒 −𝟐𝟏 𝟏𝟐
−𝟏 𝟎 −𝟒 𝟎
4C = 4 ( )=( )
−𝟐 −𝟒 −𝟖 −𝟏𝟔
Hence 2A - 3B + 4C
−𝟔 𝟎 −𝟔 −𝟑 −𝟒 𝟎
( )− ( )+ ( )
−𝟏𝟒 −𝟖 −𝟐𝟏 𝟏𝟐 −𝟖 −𝟏𝟔
When a matrix A is multiplied by another matrix B, a single matrix results in which elements are
obtained from the sum of the products of the corresponding rows of A and the corresponding columns of
B. Two matrices A and B may be multiplied together, provided the number of elements in the rows of
matrix A are equal to the number of elements in the columns of matrix B. In general terms, when
multiplying a matrix of dimensions (m by n) by a matrix of dimensions (n by r), the resulting matrix has
59
dimensions (m by r). Thus a 2 by 3 matrix multiplied by a 3 by 1 matrix gives a matrix of dimensions 2
by 1.
−𝟐 𝟑 −𝟓 𝟕
Problem 5. If A = ( )B=( )
𝟏 −𝟒 −𝟑 𝟒
Find A × B.
𝑪 𝑪𝟏𝟐
Let A × B = C where C = ( 𝟏𝟏 )
𝑪𝟐𝟏 𝑪𝟐𝟐
C11 is the sum of the products of the first row elements of A and the first column elements of B taken
one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟏𝟏 = (−𝟐 × (−𝟓)) + (𝟑 × (−𝟑)) = −𝟏𝟗
𝑪𝟏𝟐 is the sum of the products of the first row elements of A and the second column elements of B, taken
one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟏𝟐 = (𝟐 × 𝟕) + (𝟑 × 𝟒) = 𝟐𝟔
C21 is the sum of the products of the second row elements of A and the first column elements of B,
taken one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟐𝟏 = (𝟏 × −𝟓) + (−𝟒 × −𝟑) = 𝟕
Finally, C22 is the sum of the products of the second row elements of A and the second column elements
of B, taken one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟐𝟐 = (𝟏 × 𝟕) + (−𝟒 × 𝟒) = −𝟗
−𝟏𝟗 𝟐𝟔
Thus, A × B = ( )
𝟕 −𝟗
𝟐
− 𝒄 𝟎 𝟏 𝟎
( 𝟑 )= ( )
𝟎 −𝟐𝒅 𝟎 𝟏
𝟐 𝟑 𝟏
Showing that 𝟑 𝒄 = 𝟏, 𝒄 = 𝒂𝒏𝒅 − 𝟐𝒅 = 𝟏 𝒊. 𝒆. 𝒅 = − 𝟐
𝟐
𝟒
Since 𝒃 = −𝟐𝒅 , 𝒃 = 𝟏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂 = − 𝟑 𝒄 , 𝒂 = −𝟐
𝟏 𝟐 𝒂 𝒃 −𝟐 𝟏
Thus the inverse of matrix ( ) is ( ) that is ( 𝟑 − 𝟐)
𝟏
𝟑 𝟒 𝒄 𝒅 𝟐
The procedure for solving linear simultaneous equations in two unknowns using matrices is:
(i) Write the equations in the form 𝒂𝟏 𝒙 + 𝒃𝟏 𝒚 = 𝒄𝟏 , 𝒂𝟐 𝒙 + 𝒃𝟐 𝒚 = 𝒄𝟐
𝒂𝟏 𝒃𝟏 𝒙 𝒄𝟏
(ii) Write the matrix equation corresponding to these equations, i.e. ( ) × (𝒚 ) = (𝒄 )
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐 𝟐
𝑎1 𝑏1 1 𝑏 −𝑏1
(iii) Determine the inverse matrix of ( ) i.e. ( 2 )
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑎1 𝑏2 − 𝑏1 𝑎2 −𝑎2 𝑎1
(iv) Multiply each side of (ii) by the inverse matrix
(v) Solve for x and y by equating corresponding elements.
The procedure for solving linear simultaneous equations in three unknowns using matrices is:
(i) Write the equations in the form
𝑎1 𝑥 + 𝑏1 𝑦 + 𝑐1 𝑧 = 𝑑1
𝑎2 𝑥 + 𝑏2 𝑦 + 𝑐2 𝑧 = 𝑑2
𝑎3 𝑥 + 𝑏3 𝑦 + 𝑐3 𝑧 = 𝑑3
(ii) Write the matrix equation corresponding to these equations, i.e.
𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1 𝑥 𝑑1
(𝑎 2 𝑏2 𝑐2 ) × (𝑦) = (𝑑2 )
𝑎3 𝑏3 𝑐3 𝑧 𝑑3
(iii) Determine the inverse matrix of
𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1
(𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2 )
𝑎3 𝑏3 𝑐3
(iv) Multiply each side of (ii) by the inverse matrix
(v) Solve for x, y and z by equating the corresponding elements.
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Applications of Matrices
• Cryptography
• Fourier analysis
• Gauss theorem
• Finding forces in the bridge
• Finding electric currents using matrix equation
4.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. Add the matrices
62
4 −2 −3 5
( )+( )
−1 3 7 6
2. Subtract
3 1 −4 2 7 −5
(4 3 1 ) − ( −2 1 0 )
1 4 −3 6 3 4
2 3 2 3
4. If 𝐴 = ( ) and 𝐵 = ( ), show that 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
1 0 0 1
Panju, M(2011) Iterative methods for computing eigen values and eigen vectors ar.xiv 11051185
Searle. S.R., & Khun, A.I. (2017) matrix algebra useful for statistics. John wiley & sons.
4 −2 −3 5 4 + (−3) −2 + 5 1 −3
( )+( )= =( )
−1 3 7 6 −1 + 7 3+6 6 9
2. Subtract
3 1 −4 2 7 −5 3−2 1 − 7 −4 − (−5) 1 −6 1
(4 3 1 ) − (−2 1 0 ) = (4 − (−2) 3 − 1 1−0 )=( 6 2 1)
1 4 −3 6 3 4 1−6 4−3 −3 − 4 −5 1 −7
3 −2
| | = (3 × 4) − (−2 × 7) = 26
7 4
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2 3 2 3
4. If 𝐴 = ( ) and 𝐵 = ( ), show that 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
1 0 0 1
4 9
=( )
2 3
7 6
=( )
1 0
Therefore 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
Position vector: This is a vector that originates form the origin to a given point e.g. velocity and
acceleration.
Meaning of vector
A vector is a quantity having both magnitude and direction such as force, velocity etc. A vector is also
defined as a tensor of order one. A scalar has only magnitude and is completely characterized by one
number.
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It is a tensor of order zero and temperature is an example of a scalar. A second order tensor, in a three-
dimensional space, is represented by nine numbers (components).
Representations of vectors
i. The length of the line denotes the magnitude of the quantity according to the stated vector scale
ii. The direction of the line denotes the direction in which the vector quantity acts. The sense of the
direction is indicated by an arrowhead.
̅̅̅̅ or a.
The vector quantity AB is referred to as 𝐴𝐵
Operations of vectors
⃗ = (𝑐, 𝑑)
I.e. let 𝑃⃗ = (𝑎, 𝑏) and 𝑄
Then 𝑝 + 𝑞 = (𝑎 + 𝑐, 𝑏 + 𝑑)
=(𝑟1 − 𝑠1 , 𝑟2 − 𝑠2 )
Example: Find
⃗)
(𝑃⃗ + 𝑄 ⃗)
B) (𝑃⃗ − 𝑄 ⃗ = (6, −1)
Given 𝑃⃗ = (4, 5) And 𝑄
Solution
⃗ = (𝑝1 + 𝑞1 , 𝑝2 + 𝑞2 )
𝑃⃗ + 𝑄
= (4 + 6, 5 + −1)
= (10, 4)
⃗ = (𝑝1 − 𝑞1 , 𝑝2 − 𝑞2 )
ii) 𝑃⃗ - 𝑄
= (4 − 6, 5 − (−1))
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= (−2, 6)
OR
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
times −𝑄
= (−6, 1)
⃗ = (4 − 6,
Hence 𝑃⃗ + 𝑄 5 + 1) = (−2 , 6)
Addition
̅̅̅̅
𝐴𝐵 + ̅̅̅̅̅
𝐵𝐶 = ̅̅̅̅
𝐴𝐶
𝑎+𝑏 =𝑐
Example:
A force of 40N is acting in the direction due east represented by p and a force of 30N is acting in the
direction due south represented as q, find the magnitude (r) of the vector of the two forces.
𝑟 2 = 𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 = √(𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 ) = √(402 + 302 )=50
In the concept of two-dimensions, we can use the Cartesian planes to draw our vectors
𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 B
Or (𝐴, 𝐵)
1 2 3 4 5 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠
Vector P is a 2-dimensional vector drawn with 3 units on the x-axis and 3 units on the y-axis.
The magnitude of vector P is simply the length of vector P which we can calculate using the basic
Pythagoras theorem i.e. we can denote the vector components as 𝑁𝐵 = 3 and AN = 3
66
N
A
Direction of a vector normally we use degrees or radians from the horizontal in an anticlockwise
direction to describe direction of a vector
B
BN - Adjacent side
A
P 𝑃𝑦
N =3 ∅ NB – Opposite side to
angle ∅
PX= 3
We first form a right-angled triangle by joining the ends of the vector then apply simple trigonometry.
3 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒
So, we have: Tan𝜃 =3 (𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡) = 1
z - Axis P (2,3,4)
x - Axis
0
Just like in
y - two
Axis dimensional we can also denote three dimensional vectors using the standard unit
vectors i, j, k, i=(1, 0, 0) j=(0, 1, 0), k=(0, 0, 1) an then express the vector as sum of scalar multiples
of these units vectors i.e. P=(P1 P2 P3)= P1i + P2j+ P3k
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𝛿-Angle between P and x-axis
I.e. 𝑝1 = 𝑃. 𝐼 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛿
𝑝2 = 𝑃. 𝑗 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛽
𝑝3 = 𝑃. 𝑘 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛾
Determination of angles
The direction of a vector in three directions is determined in angles which the vector makes with the three
axes of reference.
Let ̅̅̅̅
𝑂𝑃 = 𝑟 = 𝑎𝑖 + 𝑏𝑗 + 𝑐𝑘
𝑎
Then; 𝑟 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 ∴ 𝑎 = 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼
𝑏
= 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽 ∴ 𝑏 = 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽
𝑟
Also 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 = 𝑟 2
68
When either 𝑎 = 0 or 𝑏⃗ = 0 then 𝜃 is not defined and in this case, 𝑎 . 𝑏⃗ = 0
If both 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are non-zero and yet 𝑎 . 𝑏⃗ = 0, then this implies that 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are perpendicular to each
other. The angle between two non-zero vectors is given by;
⃗
𝐴.𝐵
Cos 𝜃 = |𝐴||𝐵⃗|
⃗
𝐴.𝐵
Or simply 𝜃= cos −1 |𝐴||𝐵⃗|
Example
𝑝 = 4i -3j 𝑞 = 2i + j
Solution
𝑝 . 𝑞 = (4 × 2) + (−3 × 1)
= 8-3 = 5
𝑝 = (8, 0, 3) 𝑞 = (3, 2, 7)
Solution
𝑝. 𝑞 = (8 × 3) + (0 × 2) + (3 × 7)
= 6 + 0 + 21
= 27
𝑝. 𝑞 = (3 × 0) + (−4 × 5) + (−1 × 2)
= 0+ -20-2
= −22
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|𝑝| = √32 + (−42 ) + (−12 ) = √26
|𝑞 | = √02 + 52 + 22 = √29
⃗
𝑃⃗ .𝑄 −22
Cos 𝜃 = |𝑃⃗||𝑄⃗| = =-0.8011927 =
√26 √29
Position of vectors
Definition: A position vector is a vector that starts from the origin i.e. its origin is (0, 0, 0)
P (3,6)
8,5
Example 1
⃗ is (5) and the position vector and the position vector of 𝑅⃗ (−3) is
The position vector of 𝑄 4 6
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
70
Solution
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑄𝑂
𝑄𝑅 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + 𝑂𝑅
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = - 𝑂𝑄
NB: 𝑄𝑂 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (opposite direction)
-(54) + (−3
6
) = (−8
2
)
Generally, ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 = -a + b or simply b-a since from A to B, you must first move from A to the origin hence (-
a) then from the origin to B.
𝑂𝐵
Cos𝜃 = 𝑂𝐴
OB = 𝑃⃗ Cos𝜃 𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡
Recall Cosine = 𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
But OB = Px
𝐴𝐵 𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒
Sin𝜃= 𝑂𝐵 [𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜃 = ]
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
Then, have all students hang their graphs on a classroom wall, numbering each graph. Ask students to
walk along the wall with their notebooks and notate the horizontal and vertical components of each of
their classmates' vectors.
Once you have discussed their answers, ask each partnership to take their own graph and use colors and
arrows to show how the horizontal and vertical components of their own vectors are determined.
2. Activity 2
To understand the principles of adding vectors by the graphical method and of adding vectors by
component addition.
Two or more vectors can be added together to determine a vector sum or resultant. Two methods of
adding vectors are the graphical or head-to-tail method and the trigonometric or component addition
method. For each problem, vectors A, B and C are shown.
i. Sketch the head-to-tail addition of 𝐹1 , 𝐹2 , 𝐹3 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹4 on the empty grid; label each vector.
ii. Draw and label the resultant (R).
iii. Record the magnitude and direction of each component; use a + to indicate East or North; use a –
to indicate a West or South.
iv. Sum the components to determine the components of the resultant.
v. Use the Pythagorean theorem and SOH CAH TOA to determine the magnitude and direction of
R
Magnitude of R =
Direction of R =
5.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. Calculate the resultant force of the two forces:
72
i. The magnitude of the resultant of vector addition
ii. The direction of the resultant of vector addition
1 ⃗ is (5) and the position vector and the position vector of 𝑅⃗ 𝑖𝑠 (−3)
The position vector of 𝑄 4 6
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
3. Use a graphical method to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant of the three
velocities
Ray M. Bowen & C.C. Wang (2008). Introduction to vectors and tensors: Mineola: Dover Publications.
Richard E. Johnson (2010). Vector Algebra Meerut: Krishna Prakashan Media (P) Ltd.
73
5.2.9 Answers to Self-Assessment
1. Calculate the resultant force of the two forces:
2.828
= 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( ) = 16.05°
9.828
⃗ is (5) and the position vector and the position vector of 𝑅⃗ (−3) is
2. The position vector of 𝑄 4 6
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
Solution
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑄𝑂
𝑄𝑅 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + 𝑂𝑅
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = - 𝑂𝑄
NB: 𝑄𝑂 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (opposite direction)
-(54) + (−3
6
) = (−8
2
)
3. Use a graphical method to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant of the three
velocities
74
𝑣1 + 𝑣2 + 𝑣3 = 17.5 𝑚⁄𝑠 𝑎𝑡 82° 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙
75
d) Frequency tables
e) Cumulative frequency
3. Sampling
a) Importance of sampling
b) Errors in sampling
c) Types of sampling and their limitations
4. Diagrammatic and graphical presentation of data e.g.
a) Histograms
b) Frequency polygons
c) Bar charts
d) Pie charts
e) Cumulative frequency curves
5. Measures of central tendency
a) Measures
b) Properties
6. Calculation and interpretation of mean, mode and median, variance and standard deviation
76
For sets having more than ten members, those members having similar values are grouped together in
classes to form a frequency distribution. To assist in accurately counting members in the various classes,
a tally diagram is used.
A frequency distribution is merely a table showing classes and their corresponding frequencies.
The new set of values obtained by forming a frequency distribution is called grouped data.
Data collection
We can use this example to define a number of terms, consider the class labelled 7.1 – 7.3
The class values stated in the table are the lower and upper limits of the class and their difference gives
the class width.
The class boundaries are 0.05 below the lower class limit and 0.05 above the upper class limit.
The lower class boundary is 7.1 - 0.05 = 7.05
The upper class boundary is 7.3 + 0.05 = 7.35
The class interval is the difference between the upper and lower class boundaries.
Class interval = upper class boundary – lower class boundary
= 7.35 – 7.05 = 0.30
Where the classes are regular, the class interval can also be found by subtracting any lower class limit
from the lower class limit of the following class.
The central value (mid value) of the class is the average of the upper and lower class boundaries.
Sampling
𝑥−µ
𝑍=
𝛼
𝑋 = 𝑟𝑎𝑤 𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑒
77
µ = 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛
𝛼 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑑𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
A Z found on the both tables should be used on the table provided to known the percentile and therefore
compare. Note; if it is a negative then a table for negative values is used.
Sampling distribution
It is also known as probability distribution and the standard deviation of this topic is known as standard
error. Sampling distribution mean is equal to the mean of the population.
µ𝑥 =µ
SE Standard error
𝜕 =Standard deviation
𝜇=Size of population
n= size of sample
If 𝑓𝑝𝑐 = 1 from factor√𝑁 − 𝑛)/𝑁 − 1), therefore standard arror formula can be approximated by
√(x = 𝛼)/√𝑛
Distribution
It is a type of distribution similar with the normal distribution curve but with a bit shorter and fatter tail.
Therefore distribution is used because small size is small.
𝑥−µ
𝑡= 𝑠
( )
√𝑛
Where,
78
x̅ is the sample mean
Estimation
This is the process of identifying a value by approximating due to a certain purpose. It can be done by
rounding off to the nearest whole number.
• Chi-squared distribution
• Poisson distribution
Histograms
Frequency histogram
i. The centre of the base indicates the central value of the class
ii. The area of the rectangle represents the class frequency
If the class intervals are regular, the frequency is then denoted by the height of the rectangle.
79
Figure 8: Histogram
Frequency Polygon
Another method of presenting grouped data diagrammatically is by using a frequency polygon, which is
the graph produced by plotting frequency against class mid-point values and joining the coordinates with
straight lines.
A cumulative frequency distribution is a table showing the cumulative frequency for each value of upper
class boundary. The cumulative frequency for a particular value of upper class boundary is obtained by
adding the frequency of the class to the sum of the previous frequencies.
The curve obtained by joining the co-ordinates of cumulative frequency (vertically) against upper class
boundary (horizontally) is called an ogive or a cumulative frequency distribution curve
A single value, which is representative of a set of values, may be used to give an indication of the
general size of the members in a set, the word ‘average’ often being used to indicate the single value.
The statistical term used for ‘average’ is the arithmetic mean or just the mean.
Other measures of central tendency may be used and these include the median and the modal values.
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Obtainment of mean, median, mode and standard deviation from given data
A set is a group of data and an individual value within the set is called a member of the set. Some
members selected at random from a population are called a sample.
Mean: It is also known as average therefore it is addition of the number divided by the number of the
numbers.
∑ 𝑜𝑓 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 =
𝑛𝑜 𝑜𝑓 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
Median: This is the number in the middle after being arranged from the lowest to the highest number; if
they are two, find the mean.
Mode: This is the number which is the most repeated in a series.
Variance: This is the mean of the squared differences of the number from the mean.
𝑉𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = ∑(𝑥1− µ)2 /𝑛
Standard deviation: This is the amount of variation of a set of numbers known as square root variance.
Example:
Determine the mean, median and mode for the set:
{2, 3, 7, 5, 5, 13, 1, 7, 4, 8, 3, 4, 3}
Thus, mean value,
2+3+7+5+5+13+1+7+4+8+3+4+3 65
𝑥̅ = = 13= 5
13
Median
To obtain the median value the set is ranked, that is, placed in ascending order of magnitude, and since
the set contains an odd number of members the value of the middle member is the median value.
Ranking the set gives: [1,2,3,3,3,4,4,5,5,7,7,8,13]
{1, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7, 8, 13}
The middle term is the seventh member, i.e. 4, thus the median value is 4.
Mode
The modal value is the value of the most commonly occurring member and is 3, which occurs three
times, all other members on occurring once or twice.
6.2.5 Learning Activities
1. As the teacher ask your students to collect 25 bottle tops and start making a histogram of their dates
they forward the bottle tops. Each student has collected 25 bottle tops over the past few days. The
students come to place the pennies in groups above a number line on the floor, according to the years in
which the pennies were minted.
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6.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. The data given below refer to the gain of each of a batch of 40 transistors, expressed correct to the
nearest whole number.
Form a frequency distribution for these data having seven classes.
81 83 87 74 76 89 82 84
86 76 77 71 86 85 87 88
84 81 80 81 73 89 82 79
81 79 78 80 85 77 84 78
83 79 80 83 82 79 80 77
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
82
86 76 77 71 86 85 87 88
84 81 80 81 73 89 82 79
81 79 78 80 85 77 84 78
83 79 80 83 82 79 80 77
The value obtained by taking the value of the smallest member from that of the largest member.
Inspection of the set of data shows that, range=89−71=18
b) Construct a tally diagram
This is obtained by listing the classes in the left-hand column, and then inspecting each of the 40
members of the set in turn and allocating them to the appropriate classes by putting ‘1s’ in the
appropriate rows. Every fifth ‘1’ allocated to the particular row is shown as an oblique line crossing the
four previous ‘1s’, to help with final counting.
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5. The frequency distribution for the value of resistance in ohms of 48resistors is as shown.
Determine the mean value of resistance.
20.5–20.9: 3, 21.0–21.4: 10, 21.5–21.9: 11,
22.0–22.4: 13, 22.5–22.9: 9, 23.0–23.4: 2
The class mid-point/frequency values are:
20.7 - 3, 21.2 - 10, 21.7 - 11, 22.2 - 13, 22.7 - 9 and 23.2 - 2
For grouped data, the mean value is given by:
∑(𝑓𝑥) (20.7 × 3) + (21.2 × 10) + (21.7 × 11) + (22.2 × 13) + (22.7 × 9) + (23.2 × 2)
𝑥̅ = =
∑𝑓 48
= 21.9
6. Determine the standard deviation from the mean of the set of numbers: (5, 6, 8, 4, 10, 3) correct
to 4 significant figures.
∑𝑥 5+6+8+4+10+3
The arithmetic mean 𝑥̅ = = =6
𝑛 6
∑(𝑥−𝑥̅ )2
Standard deviation 𝜎 = √ 𝑛
The (𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 values are (5 − 6)2 ,(6 − 6)2 , (8 − 6)2 , (4 − 6)2 , (10 − 6)2 , (3 − 6)2
The sum of the (𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 values, i.e.
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 = 1 + 0 + 4 + 4 + 16 + 9 = 34
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 34
= = = 5.6
𝑛 6
Since, there are 6 members in the set.
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2
𝜎=√ = √5.6 = 2.38
𝑛
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7 Learning Outcome 8: Apply Concepts of probability for Work
7.2.2 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers: Probability, Types of probability events, Laws of probability, Counting
techniques, Permutation, Combination, Tree diagrams and Venn diagrams.
Probability of something happening is the likelihood or chance of it happening. Values of probability lie
between 0 and 1, where 0 represents an absolute impossibility and 1 represents an absolute certainty.
The probability of an event happening usually lies somewhere between these two extreme values and is
expressed either as a proper or decimal fraction.
If p is the probability of an event happening and q is the probability of the same event not happening,
then the total probability is p + q and is equal to unity, since it is an absolute certainty that the event
either does or does not occur, i.e. p + q = 1
The expectation, E, of an event happening is defined in general terms as the product of the probability p
of an event happening and the number of attempts made, n, i.e. E = pn.
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An independent event is one in which the probability of an event happening does not affect the
probability of another event happening.
Conditional probability
Conditional probability is concerned with the probability of say event B occurring, given that event A
has already taken place. If A and B are independent events, then the fact that event A has already
occurred will not affect the probability of event B. If A and B are dependent events, then event A having
occurred will affect the probability of event B.
Mutually exclusive event
Two events are known as mutually exclusive, when the occurrence of one of them excludes the
occurrence of the other. I.e. in tossing of a coin the outcomes are either head or tail.
Laws of probability
If n different objects are available, they can be arranged in different orders of selection. Each different
ordered arrangement is called a permutation.
For example, permutations of the three letters X, Y and Z taken together are:
XYZ, XZY, YXZ, YZX, ZXY and ZYX
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This can be expressed as 3𝑃3 =6, the upper 3 denoting the number of items from which the arrangements
are made, and the lower 3 indicating the number of items used in each arrangement.
𝑛!
In general, n𝑃𝑟 = 𝑛(𝑛 − 1)(𝑛 − 2) … … … … (𝑛 − 𝑟 + 1) or = (𝑛−𝑟)!
Combinations
Using three letters A, B, C we now make selections without regard to the order of the letters in each
group i.e. AB is now the same as BA, etc. Each group is called a combination and n𝑐𝑟 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 n is the
total number of items and r is the number in each selection, gives the number of possible combinations.
Note that AB and BA are different permutations, but are not different combinations.
Tree Diagram
A probability tree diagram shows all the possible events. The first event is represented by a dot. From
the dot, branches are drawn to represent all possible outcomes of the event. The probability of each
outcome is written on its branch.
Venn Diagram
A set is a collection of things. A Venn diagram uses overlapping circles or other shapes to illustrate the
logical relationships between two or more sets of items. Often, they serve to graphically organize things,
highlighting how the items are similar and different.
Each friend is an "element" (or "member") of the set. It is normal to use lowercase letters for them.
Now let's say that alex, casey, drew and hunter play Soccer:
(It says the Set "Soccer" is made up of the elements alex, casey, drew and hunter.)
You can now list your friends that play Soccer OR Tennis.
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Not everyone is in that set ... only your friends that play Soccer or Tennis (or both).
In our case that means they play both Soccer AND Tennis ... which is casey and drew.
The special symbol for Intersection is an upside down "U" like this: ∩
For example, taking Soccer and subtracting Tennis means people that play Soccer but NOT Tennis ...
which is alex and hunter.
Now get a paper and pen and play 20 times and record your data.
7.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. Determine the probabilities of selecting at random (a) a man, and (b) a woman from a crowd
containing 20 men and 33 women.
2. Find the expectation of obtaining a 4 upwards with 3 throws of a fair dice.
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1
3. The probability of a component failing in one year due to excessive temperature is20, due to
1 1
excessive vibration is and due to excessive humidity is . Determine the probabilities that
25 50
during a one-year period component: (a) fails due to excessive temperature and excessive
vibration, (b) fails due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity, and (c) will not fail because
of both excessive temperature and excessive humidity.
7.2.7 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
• Scientific Calculators
• Rulers, pencils, erasers
• Charts with presentations of data
• Graph books
• Computers with an internet connection
7.2.8 References
K. A. Stroud, (2001). Engineering Mathematics, 5th Ed. Industrial Press Inc, New York.
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
20 20
𝑃= = = 0.3774
20 + 33 53
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛
b. The probability of selecting at random women, q, is given by the ratio= 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑑
33 33
𝑄= = = 0.6226
20 + 33 53
2. Find the expectation of obtaining 4 upwards with 3 throws of a fair dice.
1
3. The probability of a component failing in one year due to excessive temperature is 20, due to
1 1
excessive vibration is 25 and due to excessive humidity is50. Determine the probabilities that during a
one-year period component: (a) fails due to excessive temperature and excessive vibration, (b) fails
due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity, and (c) will not fail because of both excessive
temperature and excessive humidity.
Solution
Let 𝑃𝐴 be the probability of failure due to excessive temperature, then
1 19
𝑃𝐴 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐴 =
20 20
̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐴 The probability of not failing.
89
Let 𝑃𝐵 be the probability of failure due to excessive vibration, then
1 24
𝑃𝐵 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐵 =
25 25
̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐵
Let 𝑃𝐵 be the probability of failure due to excessive humidity, then
1 49
𝑃𝐶 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐶 =
50 50
a. The probability of a component failing due to excessive temperature and excessive vibration is given
by:
1 1 1
𝑃𝐴 × 𝑃𝐵 = × = = 0.002
20 25 500
b. The probability of a component failing due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity is:
1 1 3
𝑃𝐵 + 𝑃𝐶 = + = = 0.06
25 50 50
c. The probability that a component will not fail due to excessive temperature and will not fail due to
excess humidity is:
19 49 931
̅̅̅̅ × 𝑃𝐶
𝑃𝐴 ̅̅̅̅ = × = = 0.931
20 50 1000
90
8 Learning Outcome 9: Perform Commercial Calculation
8.2.2 Introduction to the learning outcome
The learning outcome covers: Product pricing, Average sales determination, Stock turnover, Calculation
of incomes, Profit and Loss calculations, Salaries,
Cost price is the price a retailer paid for the product. And the profit margin is a percentage of the cost
price.
• Cost Price: The price a retailer paid for the product
• Profit Margin: A percentage of the cost price.
Stock turnover
Inventory turnover is a ratio showing how many times a company has sold and replaced inventory during
a given period. A company can then divide the days in the period by the inventory turnover formula to
calculate the days it takes to sell the inventory on hand.
Inventory Turnover = Sales / Average Inventory
Where:
Average Inventory = (Beginning Inventory + Ending Inventory) / 2
Companies calculate inventory turnover by:
• Calculating the average inventory, which is done by dividing the sum of beginning inventory and
ending inventory by two.
• Dividing sales by average inventory.
Profit or Gain: If the selling price is more than the cost price, the difference between them is the profit
incurred.
Loss: If the selling price is less than the cost price, the difference between them is the loss incurred.
Marked price: This is the price marked as the selling price on an article, also known as the listed price.
Discount or Rebate: This is the reduction in price offered on the marked or listed price.
Below is the list of some basic formulas used in solving questions on profit and loss:
Salaries
A salary is a form of payment from an employer to an employee, which may be specified in an
employment contract. It is contrasted with piece wages, where each job, hour, or other unit is paid
separately, rather than on a periodic basis.
Gross Pay
Gross income for an individual—also known as gross pay when it's on a paycheck—is the individual’s
total pay from his or her employer before taxes or other deductions. This includes income from all sources
and is not limited to income received in cash; it also includes property or services received. Gross annual
income is the amount of money a person earns in one year before taxes and includes income from all
sources.
Net Pay
Net pay refers to the amount an employee takes home, not the amount it costs to employ them.
Wages
• Time rate
• Flat rate
• Overtime
• Piece rate
• Commission
• Percentage
• Bonus
93
The exchange rate is defined as the rate on the basis of which two countries involved in trade exchange
marketable items or commodities. It is basically the cost of exchanging one currency for another
currency.
Exchange rates fluctuate constantly throughout the week as currencies are actively traded. This pushes
the price up and down, similar to other assets such as gold or stocks. Therefore, the exchange rate can be
calculated as per the below-mentioned relationship: –
Devaluation
Devaluation is the deliberate downward adjustment of the value of a country's money relative to another
currency, group of currencies, or currency standard. Countries that have a fixed exchange rate or semi-
fixed exchange rate use this monetary policy tool. It is often confused with depreciation and is the
opposite of revaluation, which refers to the readjustment of a currency's exchange rate.
Given two exchange rates in terms of a Base Currency and a Quote Currency we can calculate
appreciation and depreciation between them using the percentage change calculation. Letting V1 be the
starting rate and V2 the final rate.
The percentage change of the Quote Currency relative to the Base Currency is
(𝑉1 − 𝑉2 )
%𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 = × 100
𝑉2
The percentage change of the Base Currency relative to the Quote Currency is
(𝑉2 − 𝑉1 )
%𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 = × 100
𝑉1
• Revaluation
A revaluation is a calculated upward adjustment to a country's official exchange rate relative to a chosen
baseline. The baseline can include wage rates, the price of gold, or a foreign currency.
94
Revaluation is the opposite of devaluation, which is a downward adjustment of a country's official
exchange rate.
Materials:
• computer/internet
• W-2 form (pre-filled)
• 1040 tax form
Guiding Questions:
Procedures:
Activity 2
In groups of 4, have the students buy 20 biro pens at wholesale price of KShs. 10 per pen, they will
spend a total cost of KShs. 2.50 per pen to advertise and on labor. If they made a total of profit of KShs.
120 from sale of the 20pens Using the template below let them fill the results.
Selling price?
95
8.2.6 Self-Assessment
1. The market oriented pricing, there are three pricing ways, outline them?
2. Hot Pie's Bakery Supply needs to calculate the selling price for its product line of bread
machines. The business purchased 20 bread machines for $3,000.
a. Calculate the cost price
b. The cost price for each bread machine is $150, and the business hopes to earn a 40% profit margin.
Calculate the selling price?
3. In a transaction, the profit percentage is 80% of the cost. If the cost further increases by 20% but
the selling price remains the same, how much is the decrease in profit percentage?
4. A man bought two bicycles for Rs. 2500 each. If he sells one at a profit of 5%, then how much
should he sell the other so that he makes a profit of 20% on the whole?
5. A trader wants to make an investment in the exchange-traded funds traded in US markets.
However, the trader lives in India and 1 INR corresponds to 0.014 USD. The trader has
INR 10,000 to invest in the exchange-traded funds traded in the offshore market.
Help the trader determine the value of INR investment in terms of US currency.
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
• Price above market: Consciously pricing your product above the competition to brand yourself
as having a higher-quality or better-performing item
• Copy market: Selling your item at the same price as your competition to maximize profit while
staying competitive
• Price below market: Using data as a benchmark and consciously pricing a product below
competitors, to lure customers into your store over theirs
96
2. Hot Pie's Bakery Supply needs to calculate the selling price for its product line of bread
machines. The business purchased 20 bread machines for $3,000.
a. Calculate the cost price
$3,000
Cost price: = = $150
20
b. The cost price for each bread machine is $150, and the business hopes to earn a 40% profit margin.
Calculate the selling price?
3. In a transaction, the profit percentage is 80% of the cost. If the cost further increases by 20% but
the selling price remains the same, how much is the decrease in profit percentage?
Solution:
4. A man bought two bicycles for Rs. 2500 each. If he sells one at a profit of 5%, then how much
should he sell the other so that he makes a profit of 20% on the whole?
Solution:
Before we start, it’s important to note here that it is not 15% to be added to 5% to make it a total of 20%.
97
Let the other profit percent be x.
Hence, if he makes a profit of 35% on the second, it comes to a total of 20% profit on the whole.
Help the trader determine the value of INR investment in terms of US currency.
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98
99
CHAPTER 2: ELECTRICAL PRINCIPLES
Unit of learning code ENG/CU/EI/CC/02/5
100
2.2.1.3 Information Sheet
SI units
The system of units used in engineering and science is the System International unites (International
system of units), usually abbreviated to SI units, and is based on the metric system. This was introduced
in 1960 and is now adopted by the majority of countries as the official system of measurement. The basic
units in the SI system are listed in table 1 with their symbols.
101
Table 3 Standard units of measure
Ohms law
Ohm’s law states that the current flowing in a circuits is directly proportional to the applied voltage V
and inversely proportional to the resistance R, provided the temperature remains constant. Thus,
𝑉 𝑉
𝐼 = 𝑅 𝑜𝑟 𝑉 = 𝐼𝑅 𝑜𝑟 𝑅 = 𝐼
Question 1
The current flowing through a resistor is 0.8 A when a p.d. of 20 V is applied. Determine the value of the
resistance.
From ohms law,
𝑉 20
Resistance 𝑅 = 𝐼 = 0.8 = 25Ω
Question 2.
Determine the p.d. which must be applied to a 2 KΩ resistor in order that a current of 10 mA may flow.
Resistance 𝑅 = 2𝐾Ω = 2 × 103 = 2000Ω
Current 𝐼 = 10 𝑚𝐴 = 10 × 10−3 𝐴
Question 3
A 100 V battery is connected across resistor and causes a current of 5 mA to flow. Determine the
resistance of the resistor. If the voltage is now reduced to 25 V, what will be the new value of the current
flowing?
102
𝑉 100
Resistance 𝑅 = 𝐼 = 5×10−3 =20 × 103 = 20𝐾Ω
Question 4
A 100 W electric light bulb is connected to a 250 V supply. Determine
a) the current flowing in the bulb, and
b) the resistance of the bulb.
Power 𝑃 = 𝑉 × 𝐼, from which, current 𝐼 = 𝑃𝑉
100
a) Current 𝐼 = 250 = 0.4 𝐴
𝑉 250
b) Resistance 𝑅= 𝐼 = = 625Ω
0.4
Question 5
Calculate the power dissipated when a current of 4 mA flows through a resistance of 5kΩ.
Power P= 𝐼 2 𝑅 = 4× 10−3 × 5 × 103 =80× 10−3
= 0.80𝑊 𝑜𝑟 80𝑚𝑊
103
You can easily understand the classification of an instrument through the block chart shown in figure
Multimeter
Multi-meters can be used to make various electrical measurements, they can be used to measure AC and
DC voltage, AC and DC current, and resistance. It is known as multi-meter because it can do the
functions of various meters such as voltmeter, ammeter, and ohm-meter. Multi-meters can also be used
to check the continuity. Multimeter are a popular type of electrical measuring instrument. Like its name,
it works like an ammeter, voltmeter, and ohmmeter to measure current, voltage, and resistance,
respectively
The multimeter is available into two different forms, like-
i. Analog type Multimeter
ii. Digital type Multimeter
In this advanced technology, both types of meter are needed as per requirement. A signal Multimeter
performs all standard analog and digital meters measurement units or functions for AC and DC.
a) The analog type of multimeter shows the continuous signal. It detects and displays the electrical
reading by using the moving pointer. Whereas, digital type of multimeter shows the discrete
signal. And it measures and displays the numeric measuring unit or value. So, digital multimeter
(DMM) gives a more accurate, fast response and readable digital output over analog multimeter.
b) Digital meter is also called as ‘Smart Meters ‘or ‘Advance Meters’. With this single smart
meter, you can measure multiple units. Instead of buying separate meters to measure current,
voltage, resistance, and so on, you buy digital a multimeter.
104
Ammeter
An ammeter is an instrument which is used to measure the electric current in amperes in a branch of an
electric circuit. In order to measure the current it must flow through the ammeter, so the ammeter must
be placed in series with the measured branch and it must have very low resistance so that the alteration
of the current can be avoided which is measured. Instruments which is used to measure smaller currents
are micro-ammeter. The ammeter is connected in series to the device which is to be measured because
objects in series have the same current.
Types of ammeter
Moving iron ammeter
In a moving iron, ammeter can measure the AC and DC, it has an iron piece instead of the spring and
pointer system of the galvanometer. The iron will act by the magnetic field created in the coil.
Zero center ammeter
Zero center ammeters are used where the voltage needs to be monitored in two directions and they are
used along with a battery. In this the charging of battery deflects the needle in one direction and
discharging of the battery deflects the battery in the other.
Galvanometer
Galvanometer was the first type of ammeter; it is used to detect and measure electric current. It is an
analog electromechanical transducer which makes a rotary deflection in response to the electric current
flowing through the coil. A galvanometer can read direct current flow, the magnetic field created as
current flows through a coil acts on a spring, which will move the needle indicator.
Shunt
A shunt can be used in ammeters to measure large currents, shunt acts as a resistor the known quantity of
resistance is used to obtain an accurate reading. Digital ammeters use analog to digital converter to
measure the current across the shunt.
Clamp meter
Clamp meters are used to measure the current flowing through a conductor, AC clamp meters have a
current transformer in it. With the help of the current transformer the reading will be taken. There are
two types of clamp meters AC clamp meter which is used to measure the AC and the DC clamp meter
which is used to measure the DC.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter can be considered as a kind of galvanometer, which can be used to measure the voltage
potential of an electrical circuit or the potential difference between two points. A voltmeter can also be
considered as an ammeter they also measure the current, voltage is only measured when the current is
transmitted in a circuit through resistance. Voltmeters are capable to measure the current, voltage and
resistance. Voltmeters are also termed as high resistance ammeters they can also measure DC and AC. A
105
voltmeter can measure the change in voltage by two points in an electrical circuit and they are connected
in parallel with the portion of the circuit on which the measurement is made. Voltmeters must have high
resistance so that it won’t have any effect on the current or voltage associated with the circuit.
Types of voltmeter
Digital voltmeter
Digital voltmeters can measure the AC and DC voltages and it displays the result in converted digital
form with decimal point and polarity. It can provide accurate details about the current draw and current
continuity and this will help the users to troubleshoot erratic loads.
What are the advantages of digital voltmeter?
a. Outputs are accurate without any error
b. Readings are taken quickly
c. Versatile and accurate
d. Less power consumption
e. Portable instrument
Electrostatic voltmeter
These voltmeters are instruments that can accurately measure the voltage without any charge transfer.
Whereas conventional voltmeter needs charge transfer to the voltmeter and it will lead to loading and
adjustment of the source voltage. The main advantage of an electrostatic voltmeter is that it can do the
surface potential measurement on any type of material without any physical contact.
Ohmmeter
An ohmmeter is an instrument that is used to measure the resistance and they can measure the value of
resistance accurately. According to their measurement and construction, these instruments are classified
into the series type and shunt type ohmmeter. It can be used to check the continuity of the electrical
circuits and components. Series type ohmmeters are used to measure the high resistance values while the
shunt type is used to measure low resistance values.
Potentiometer
Potentiometers are instruments that can be used to measure the unknown voltage. The known voltage
will be supplied from a standard cell or any other known voltage reference source. Potentiometer
measurement has high accuracy because the measurement is done by the comparison method and the
obtained result is not by the deflection of the pointer. Potentiometers can be used to compare the E.M.F
of the two cells, it can be used to determine the E.M.F of a cell, it can be used to determine the internal
resistance of a cell and to calibrate the voltmeter and ammeter.
106
Wattmeter
Watt-meters are used to measure power, these instruments are similar in design and construction of an
ammeter. It can be used to measure the average electric power in watts. Wattmeter has two coils they are
current and pressure coil. Wattmeter can be used to measure the gain in amplifiers, bandwidth in filters.
Necessity or Uses of Electrical Measuring Instruments
The main functions of the measurement system are indicating, recording, detecting, controlling and
testing the electrical units. Apart from that, here are some important used.
i. It helps to control and monitoring the operation in an electrical system.
ii. You can find out the error in the measuring unit with the help of standard values.
iii. In generating power stations, instruments are used for data recording, measuring the value, fault
detecting and many more purpose.
iv. It helps to detect and protect from hazard conditions.
v. Measuring instrument uses for the analysis of experimental data in an electrical system.
vi. It is essential for displaying accurate numerical values. Digital multimeter is one of them.
vii. Mostly, it utilizes in testing in the lab, industrial environment, science, and engineering study,
building an electrical and electronics project, etc.
107
3) A charge of 240 Coulombs is transferred in 2 minutes in an electric circuit, what is the amount of
current flowing through it? (2 Marks)
4) What is Ohms law? (3 Marks)
5) What is the power dissipated by a resistor of 10 Ω when a current of 2 A passes through it?
(2 Marks)
6) A current of 2 A flows for 10 h through a 100 resistor. What is the energy consumed by the resistor?
(3 Marks)
3.1.1.6.References
1. chaudhari, D. (2020, December 9). Dipslab.com. Retrieved from https://dipslab.com/electrical-
measuring-instruments-uses/: https://dipslab.com/electrical-measuring-instruments-uses/
2. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
108
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
3. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
5. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
6. IEE regulations
7. Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
8. Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
9. Manufacturers’ catalogues
10. British standards
11. KEBS standards
3. The amount of current flowing through the electric circuit in which a charge of 240
Coulombs is transferred in 2 minutes (2 Marks)
𝑸
𝑸 = 𝑰𝒕 𝑰=
𝒕
𝟐𝟒𝟎𝑪
𝑰 = 𝟐𝒙𝟔𝟎 𝒔𝒆𝒄
= 𝟐 𝑨𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔
4. Ohms law (3 Marks)
Ohms law states that the current I flowing through a conductor in a circuit is directly proportional
to the applied voltage V provided that temperature and other physical condition are kept constant
110
3.1.2. Use the concepts of D.C and A.C circuits in electrical installation
3.1. Introduction
To use the concepts of D.C and A.C circuits in Electrical installation, the learner should perform
calculations involving parallel and series circuits, perform calculations involving Network theorems
e.g. Kirchhoff’s laws, superposition, Thevenin’s, Norton’s ; identify photovoltaic solar system and
perform AC to Dc and DC to AC conversion.
3.1.2.1. Performance Standard
1. Perform calculations involving parallel and series circuits
2. Perform calculations involving Network theorems e.g. Kirchhoff’s laws, Superposition,
Thevenin’s, Norton’s etc.
3. Identify Photovoltaic solar system
4. Perform AC to DC and DC to AC conversion
3.1.2.2. Information Sheet
Definition of terms
111
Figure 2 shows three resistors 𝑅1 , 𝑅2 and 𝑅3 connected end to end, i.e., in series, with a battery source of
V volts.
Since the circuit is closed a current, I will flow and the 𝑝. 𝑑. across each resistor may be determined from
the voltmeter readings 𝑉1, 𝑉2 and 𝑉3.
112
Figure 15: Potential divider
The circuit shown in Fig. 4 is often referred to as a potential divider circuit. Such a circuit can consist of
a number of similar elements in series connected across a voltage source, voltages being taken from
connections
𝑹𝟐
𝑽𝑶𝑼𝑻 = ( )𝑽
𝑹𝟏 + 𝑹𝟐 𝑰𝑵
A potential divider is the simplest way of producing a source of lower 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓. from a source of higher
e.m.f., and is the basic operating mechanism of the potentiometer, a measuring device for accurately
measuring potential differences.
Parallel networks
Figure 5 shows three resistors, R1, R2 and R3 connected across each other, i.e. in parallel, across a battery
source of V volts.
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From Ohm’s law:
𝑉 𝑉 𝑉 𝑉
𝐼1 = 𝑅 , 𝐼2 = 𝑅 , 𝐼3 = 𝑅 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼 = 𝑅
1 2 3
𝑉 𝑉 𝑉 𝑉
Where R is the total circuit resistance. Since 𝐼 = 𝐼1 + 𝐼2 + 𝐼3 then =𝑅 =𝑅 =
𝑅 1 2 𝑅3
1 1 1 1
Dividing throughout by V gives: 𝑅 = 𝑅 +𝑅 + 𝑅
1 2 3
This equation must be used when finding the total resistance R of a parallel circuit. For the special case of
two resistors in parallel
1 1 1 𝑅1+ 𝑅2
= 𝑅 +𝑅 =
𝑅 1 2 𝑅1 𝑅2
𝑅 𝑅 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑡
Hence 𝑅 = 𝑅 1 𝑅2 (𝑖. 𝑒 )
1+ 2 𝑠𝑢𝑚
Current division
𝑅 𝑅
For the circuit shown in Fig. 6, the total circuit resistance, RT is given by 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑅 1 𝑅2
1+ 2
114
the same as shown in Figure 7 except that powerful electromagnets are used and the power for rotation
comes from a steam turbine.
However, in an 𝑎. 𝑐. circuit, resistance is only part of the opposition to cur-rent flow. The inductance and
capacitance of an 𝑎. 𝑐. circuit also cause an opposition to current flow, which we call reactance.
Inductive reactance (𝑿𝐋 )
It causes the current in the circuit to lag behind the applied voltage, as shown in Fig. 8. It is given by the
formula:
115
Where π and f are defined as before and C is the capacitance of the circuit. It can also be expressed as:
Figure 19: Voltage and current relationships in resistive, capacitive and inductive circuits
Impedance (Z)
Impedance is the combined opposition to current flow of the resistance, inductive reactance and capacitive
reactance of the circuit and can be calculated from the formula:
Phasor diagrams
116
Phasor diagrams and a.c. circuits are an inseparable combination. Phasor diagrams allow us to produce a
model or picture of the circuit under consideration which helps us to understand the circuit.
To find the combined effect of two quantities we combine their phasors by adding the beginning of the
second phasor to the end of the first. The combined effect of the two quantities is shown by the resultant
phasor, which is measured from the original zero position to the end of the last phasor. The figure 9 shows
phasor addition of currents A and B.
117
Figure 21: phase relationship of ac waveform
118
Figure 24: Phasor diagram and impedance triangle
Network Theorems
The Thévenin and Norton networks shown in Fig. 19 are equivalent to each other. The resistance
‘looking-in’ at terminals AB is the same in each of the networks, i.e. r
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Figure 15: Source of 𝒆. 𝒎. 𝒇 in series with resistance
From Fig. 20,
From Fig. 21 it can be seen that, when viewed from the load, the source appears as a source of current
ISC which is divided between r and R connected in parallel
Superposition Theorem
Superposition states that the voltage across (or current through) an element in a linear circuit is the
algebraic sum of the voltage across (or currents through) that element due to EACH independent source
acting alone.‐The principle of superposition helps us to analyze a linear circuit with more than one
independent source by calculating the contribution of each independent source separately.‐Steps to Apply
Superposition Principle:
1. Turn off all independent sources except one source. Find the output (v or i) due to that active source.
2. Repeat Step 1 for each of the other independent sources.
3. Find Total contribution by adding all contributions from independent sources.
Note: In Step 1, this implies that we replace every voltage source by 0 V (or a short circuit), and every
current source by 0 A (or an open circuit). Dependent sources are left intact because they are controlled
by others.
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Kirchhoff’s Circuit Law
Kirchhoff’s Circuit Laws allow us to solve complex circuit problems by defining a set of basic network
laws and theorems for the voltages and currents around a circuit a single equivalent resistance, (RT) can
be found when two or more resistors are connected together in either series, parallel or combinations of
both, and that these circuits obey Ohm’s Law. However, sometimes in complex circuits such as bridge or
T networks, we cannot simply use Ohm’s Law alone to find the voltages or currents circulating within the
circuit. For these types of calculations, we need certain rules which allow us to obtain the circuit equations
and for this we can use Kirchhoffs Circuit Law. In 1845, a German physicist, Gustav Kirchhoff developed
a pair or set of rules or laws which deal with the conservation of current and energy within electrical
circuits. These two rules are commonly known as: Kirchhoffs Circuit Laws with one of Kirchhoff’s laws
dealing with the current flowing around a closed circuit, Kirchhoffs Current Law, (KCL) while the other
law deals with the voltage sources present in a closed circuit, Kirchhoffs Voltage Law, (KVL).
Here, the three currents entering the node, I1, I2, I3 are all positive in value and the two currents leaving
the node, I4 and I5 are negative in value. Then this means we can also rewrite the equation as;
I1 + I2 + I3 – I4 – I5 = 0
121
The term Node in an electrical circuit generally refers to a connection or junction of two or more current
carrying paths or elements such as cables and components. Also for current to flow either in or out of a
node a closed circuit path must exist. We can use Kirchhoff’s current law when analyzing parallel circuits.
Starting at any point in the loop continue in the same direction noting the direction of all the voltage drops,
either positive or negative, and returning back to the same starting point. It is important to maintain the
same direction either clockwise or anti-clockwise or the final voltage sum will not be equal to zero. We
can use Kirchhoff’s voltage law when analyzing series circuits.
When analyzing either DC circuits or AC circuits using Kirchhoff’s Circuit Laws a number of definitions
and terminologies are used to describe the parts of the circuit being analyzed such as: node, paths,
branches, loops and meshes. These terms are used frequently in circuit analysis so it is important to
understand them.
Norton theorem
Norton’s theorem states that a linear two-terminal circuit can be replaced by an equivalent circuit
consisting of a current source 𝐼𝑁 in parallel with a resistor 𝑅𝑁 , where 𝐼𝑁 is the short-circuit current
through the terminals and 𝑅𝑁 is the input or equivalent resistance at the terminals when the independent
sources are turned off.
Thus, the circuit in Fig.(a) can be replaced by the one in Fig. (b)
122
Figure19. (a) Original circuit Figure19. (b) Norton equivalent circuit
We find 𝑅𝑁 in the same way we find 𝑅𝑇ℎ . In fact, from what we know about source transformation, the
Thevenin and Norton resistances are equal; that is,
𝑅𝑁 = 𝑅𝑇ℎ .
To find the Norton current 𝐼𝑁 ,we determine the short-circuit current flowing from terminal a to b in both
circuits in Fig. 4.37. It is evident that the short-circuit current in Fig. (b) is 𝐼𝑁 . This must be the same
short-circuit current from terminal a to b in Fig. (a), since the two circuits are equivalent. Thus,
𝐼𝑁 = 𝑖𝑆𝐶
As shown in the fig below.
AC to DC conversion
The process of obtaining unidirectional currents and voltages from alternating currents and voltages is
called rectification. Automatic switching in circuits is achieved using diodes. Half-wave rectification using
a single diode, D, as shown in figure 19, half-wave rectification is obtained. When P is sufficiently positive
with respect to Q, diode D is switched on and current i flows. When P is negative with respect to QT diode
D is switched off. Transformer T isolates the equipment from direct connection with the mains supply and
enables the mains voltage to be changed. Thus, an alternating, sinusoidal waveform applied to the
transformer primary is rectified into a unidirectional waveform. Unfortunately, the output waveform
shown in Figure 19 is not constant (i.e. steady), and as such, would be unsuitable as a 𝑑. 𝑐. power supply
123
for electronic equipment. It would, however, be satisfactory as a battery charger. Full-wave rectification
using a centre-tapped transformer two diodes may be used as shown in Figure 20 to obtain full-wave
rectification where a centre-tapped transformer T is used. When P is sufficiently positive with respect to
Q, diode D1 conducts and current flows (shown by the broken line in Figure 20). When S is positive with
respect to Q, diode D2conducts and current flows (shown by the continuous line in figure 20)
The current flowing in the load R is in the same direction for both half-cycles of the input. The output
waveform is thus as shown in figure 20. The output is unidirectional, but is not constant; however, it is
better than the output waveform produced with a half-wave rectifier. A disadvantage of this type of
rectifier is that centre-tapped transformers are expensive. Full-wave bridge rectification four diodes may
be used in a bridge rectifier circuit, as shown in Figure 21 to obtain full-wave rectification. (Note, the term
‘bridge’ means a network of four elements connected to form a square, the input being applied to two
opposite corners and the output being taken from the remaining two corners). As for the rectifier shown
in Figure. 20 the current flowing in load R is in the same direction for both half cycles of the input giving
the output waveform shown. Following the broken line in figure 21:
When P is positive with respect to Q, current flows from the transformer to point E, through diode D4 to
point F, then through load R to point H, through D2 to point G, and back to the transformer. Following the
full line in figure 27: When Q is positive with respect to P, current flows from the transformer to point G,
through diode D3to point F, then through load R to point H, through D1to point E, and back to the
124
transformer. The output waveform is not steady and needs improving; a method of smoothing is explained
in the next section.
Converts DC to AC power by switching the DC input voltage (or current) in a pre-determined sequence
so as to generate AC voltage (or current) output. The figure 27 show the image and the block
representation of DC to AC inverters
125
3.1.2.3. Tools, Equipment and Materials
These includes;
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
3.1.2. References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
5. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
6. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/. (2020,
December 20). Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/
7. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
10. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
17. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
21. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
128
Use of basic electrical machine
3.1.1.0.Introduction
In order to use basic electrical machine, identify various electrical machines, perform operations
involving single phase and three phase AC and DC motors, perform operations involving single phase
and three phase transformers, perform operations involving single phase and three phase generators and
apply AC and DC machines. .
3.1.1.1.Performance Standards
1. Identify types of various electrical machines
2. Perform operations involving single phase and three phase AC and DC motors
3. Perform calculations involving single phase AC and DC transformers.
4. Perform operations involving single and three phase generators
5. Apply AC and DC machines are as per their functions
3.1.1.2.Information Sheet
Direct current motors
All electric motors work on the principle that when a current carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic
field it will experience a force. An electric motor uses this magnetic force to turn the shaft of the electric
motor. If a current carrying conductor is placed into the field of a permanent magnet as shown in Figure
50(c) a force F will be exerted on the conductor to push it out of the magnetic field.
Figure 50(a) shows the magnetic field due to the current carrying conductor only. Figure 50(b) shows the
magnetic field due to the permanent magnet in which is placed the conductor carrying no current. Figure
50(c) shows the effect of the combined magnetic fields which are distorted and, because lines of magnetic
flux never cross, but behave like stretched elastic bands, always trying to find the shorter distance between
a north and south pole, the force F is exerted on the conductor, pushing it out of the permanent magnetic
field.
This is the basic motor principle, and the force F is dependent upon the strength of the magnetic fi the
conductor I and the length of conductor within the magnetic field l.
The following equation expresses this relationship:
𝐹 = 𝐵𝐼𝐿(𝑁) Where B is in tesla, l is in metres, I is in amperes and F is in Newtons.
129
Figure 25: Magnetic fields
DC generators
D.C. generators are classified according to the method of their field excitation. These groupings are:
i. Separately-excited generators, where the field winding is connected to a source of supply other
than the armature of its own machine.
ii. Self-excited generators, where the field winding receives its supply from the armature of its own
machine, and which are sub-divided into
I. shunt,
II. series, and
III. compound wound generators
Practical 𝒅. 𝒄. motors
Practical motors are constructed as shown in Figure 51 all d.c. motors contain a field winding wound on
pole pieces attached to a steel yoke. The armature winding rotates between the poles and is connected to
the commutator. Contact with the external circuit is made through carbon brushes rubbing on the
130
commutator segments. Direct current motors are classified by the way in which the field and armature
windings are connected, which may be in series or in parallel.
Series motor
The field and armature windings are connected in series and consequently share the same current. The
series motor has the characteristics of a high starting torque but a speed which varies with load. Figure 52
shows series motor connections and characteristics. For this reason the motor is only suitable for direct
coupling to a load, except in very small motors, such as vacuum cleaners and hand drills, and is ideally
suited for applications where the machine must start on load, such as electric trains, cranes and hoists.
Reversal of rotation may be achieved by reversing the connections of either the field or armature windings
but not both. This characteristic means that the machine will run on both a.c. or d.c. and is, therefore,
sometimes referred to as a ‘universal’ motor.
131
Figure 27: Series motor connection and characteristics
Single-phase 𝒂. 𝒄. motors
A single-phase 𝑎. 𝑐. supply produces a pulsating magnetic field, not the rotating magnetic field produced
by a three-phase supply. All 𝑎. 𝑐. motors require a rotating field to start. Therefore, single-phase a.c. motors
have two windings which are electrically separated by about 90°. The two windings are known as the start
and run windings. The magnetic fields produced by currents flowing through these out-of-phase windings
create the rotating field and turning force required to start the motor. Once rotation is established, the
pulsating field in the run winding is sufficient to maintain rotation and the start winding is disconnected
by a centrifugal switch which operates when the motor has reached about 80% of the full load speed.
A cage rotor is used on single-phase a.c. motors, the turning force being produced in the way described
previously for three-phase induction motors and shown in figure 53 because both windings carry currents
which are out of phase with each other, the motor is known as a ‘split-phase’ motor. The phase
displacement between the currents in the windings is achieved in one of two ways:
• by connecting a capacitor in series with the start winding, as shown in figure 53(a), which gives a
90° phase difference between the currents in the start and run windings;
• by designing the start winding to have a high resistance and the run winding a high inductance,
once again creating a 90° phase shift between the currents in each winding, as shown in Figure
53(b).
When the motor is first switched on, the centrifugal switch is closed and the magnetic fields from the two
coils produce the turning force required to run the rotor up to full speed. When the motor reaches about
80% of full speed, the centrifugal switch clicks open and the machine continues to run on the magnetic
flux created by the run winding only.
Split-phase motors are constant speed machines with a low starting torque and are used on light loads such
as fans, pumps, refrigerators and washing machines. Reversal of rotation may be achieved by reversing
the connections to the start or run windings, but not both.
132
Figure 28: circuit diagram of : (a) capacitor split phase motors and (b) Resistance split phase motors
133
A transformer is an electrical machine which is used to change the value of an alternating voltage. They
vary in size from miniature units used in electronics to huge power transformers used in power stations. A
transformer will only work when an alternating voltage is connected. It will not normally work from a
𝑑. 𝑐. supply such as a battery.
A transformer, as shown in Fig. 55, consists of two coils, called the primary and secondary coils, or
windings, which are insulated from each other and wound on to the same steel or iron core. An alternating
voltage applied to the primary winding produces an alternating current, which sets up an alternating
magnetic flux throughout the core.
This magnetic flux induces an 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 in the secondary winding, as described by Faraday’s law, which
says that when a conductor is cut by a magnetic field, an 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 is induced in that conductor. Since both
windings are linked by the same magnetic flux, the induced 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 per turn will be the same for both
windings. Therefore, the 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 in both windings is proportional to the number of turns. In symbols
134
Types of transformer
Step down Transformers are used to reduce the output voltage, often for safety reasons. Figure 10.22
shows a step down transformer where the primary winding has twice as many turns as the secondary
winding. The turns ratio is 2:1 and, therefore, the secondary voltage is halved.
Step up Transformers are used to increase the output voltage. The electricity generated in a power station
is stepped up for distribution on the National Grid Network. Figure 56 shows a step up transformer where
the primary winding has only half the number of turns as the secondary winding.
The turns ratio is 1:2 and, therefore, the secondary voltage is doubled.
Instrument Transformers are used in industry and commerce so that large currents and voltage can be
measured by small electrical instruments.
A Current Transformer (or CT) has the large load currents connected to the primary winding of the
transformer and the ammeter connected to the secondary winding. The ammeter is calibrated to take
account of the turns ratio of the transformer, so that the ammeter displays the actual current being taken
by the load when the ammeter is actually only taking a small proportion of the load current.
135
Electrical machines
Electrical machines are energy converters. If the machine input is mechanical energy and the output
electrical energy then that machine is a generator, as shown in Fig. 56(a). Alternatively, if the machine
input is electrical energy and the output mechanical energy then the machine is a motor, as shown in Fig.
56(b) .An electrical machine may be used as a motor or a generator, although in practice the machine will
operate more efficiently when operated in the mode for which it was designed.
Simple 𝒂. 𝒄. generator or alternator
If a simple loop of wire is rotated between the poles of a permanent magnet, as shown in Fig. 57, the loop
of wire will cut the lines of magnetic flux between the north and south poles. This flux cutting will induce
an 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 in the wire by Faraday’s law which states that when a conductor cuts or is cut by a magnetic
field, an 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 is induced in that conductor. If the generated 𝑒. 𝑚. 𝑓 is collected by carbon brushes at the
slip rings and displayed on the screen of a cathode ray oscilloscope, the waveform will be seen to be
approximately sinusoidal. Alternately changing, first positive and then negative, then positive again,
giving an alternating output. This simple arrangement produces a very bumpy 𝑑. 𝑐. output. In a practical
machine, the commutator would contain many segments and many windings to produce a smoother 𝑑. 𝑐.
output. Similar to the unidirectional battery supply shown in Fig. 58.
137
a) Auto-transformers:
Auto-transformers are also known as auto-starters. They can be used for both star connected and delta
connected squirrel cage motors. It is basically a three phase step down transformer with different taps
provided that permit the user to start the motor at, say, 50%, 65% or 80% of line voltage. With auto-
transformer starting, the current drawn from supply line is always less than the motor current by an amount
equal to the transformation ratio. For example, when a motor is started on a 65% tap, the applied voltage
to the motor will be 65% of the line voltage and the applied current will be 65% of the line voltage starting
value, while the line current will be 65% of 65% (i.e. 42%) of the line voltage starting value. This
difference between the line current and the motor current is due to transformer action. The internal
connections of an auto-starter are as shown in the figure. At starting, switch is at "start" position, and a
reduced voltage (which is selected using a tap) is applied across the stator. When the motor gathers an
appropriate speed, say up to 80% of its rated speed, the auto-transformer automatically gets disconnected
from the circuit as the switch goes to "run" position.
The switch changing the connection from start to run position may be air-break (small motors) or oil-
immersed (large motors) type. There are also provisions for no-voltage and overload, with time delay
circuits on an autostarter.
The stator winding of the motor is designed for delta operation and is connected in star during the
starting period. When the machine is up to speed, the connections are changed to delta. The circuit
arrangement for star-delta starting is shown in Fig. The six leads of the stator windings are connected to
the changeover switch as shown. At the instant of starting, the changeover switch is thrown to ―Start‖
position which connects the stator windings in star. Therefore, each stator phase gets V 3 volts where V
is the line voltage. This reduces the starting current. When the motor picks up speed, the changeover
switch is thrown to ―Run‖ position which connects the stator windings in delta. Now each stator phase
gets full line voltage V.
i. With star-connection during starting, stator phase voltage is 1/root3 times the line voltage.
Consequently, starting torque is (1/root3)2 or 1/3 times the value it would have with D-
connection. This is rather a large reduction in starting torque.
ii. The reduction in voltage is fixed. This method of starting is used for medium-size machines
(up to about 25 H.P.).
Figure 61 shows star delta starter. Figure 62 shows the star and delta connections
139
Figure 37: star and delta connections
3.1.3.3.Learning Activities
Workshop Practice
Practical activities Knowledge Special instruction
2. Perform operations
involving single phase and
three phase AC and DC
motors
3. Perform calculations
involving single phase and
three phase AC and DC
transformers
4. Perform operations
involving single and three
phase generators.
3.1.3.4.Self-Assessment Questions
1. One application for an 𝑎. 𝑐. induction motor is:
A. an electric train
B. a microwave oven
C. a central heating pump
D. an electric drill.
140
2. One application for a shaded pole a.c. motor is:
A. an electric train.
B. a microwave oven.
C. a central heating pump
D. an electric drill.
3. A step down transformer has 1000 turns on the primary winding and 500 turns on the secondary
winding. If the input voltage was 230 V the output voltage will be:
A. 11V
B. 115 V
C. 200 V
D. 460 V.
4. An electromagnetic switch operated by a solenoid is one definition of: a.
A. a transformer
B. an a.c. motor
C. an relay
D. an inductive coil.
I. IEE regulations
II. Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
III. Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
IV. Manufacturers’ catalogues
V. British standards
VI. KEBS standards
References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
2. Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
7. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
8. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
9. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/. (2020,
December 20). Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/
10. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
142
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
13. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
14. https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png.
(2020, November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
18. https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-
electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-
bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
20. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
144
Demonstrate understanding of three phase power supply
3.1.2.0.Introduction
To demonstrate understanding of three phase power supply, perform connections of three phase
power supply as per the standard operating procedure, perform calculations involving three phase
power supply, perform measurements of three phase power supply and perform interconnections of
three phase power supply as per the nature of load.
Information Sheet
145
Figure 38: Star and delta connections
Three-phase power We know from our single-phase alternating current theory in Chapter 10 that power
can be found from the following formula: Power cos (W) VIcos φ In any balanced three-phase system,
the total power is equal to three times the power in any one-phase.
146
147
Measurement of power in three phase systems
Wattmeter connections for both star and delta are shown in Fig. 64
It is possible, depending on the load power factor, for one wattmeter to have to be ‘reversed’to obtain a
reading. In this case it is taken as a negative reading
c) Three-wattmeter method for a three-phase, 4- wire system for balanced and unbalanced
loads
Total Power = 𝑃1 + 𝑃2 + 𝑃3
149
3.1.2.2. Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop practice/project
Practical activities knowledge Special instructions
150
xi. Steel tapes xi. Screws
xii. Draw wires
xiii. Hack saws
xiv. Drilling tools
xv. Stock and die
xvi. Bench vice
xvii. Machine vice
xviii. PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust masks,
helmets, ear muffs, industrial boots
Reference materials
a) IEE regulations
b) Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
c) Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
d) Manufacturers’ catalogues
e) British standards
f) KEBS standards
References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
2. Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
7. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
8. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
151
9. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/. (2020,
December 20). Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/
10. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
14. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
18. https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-
electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-
bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
152
20. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
22. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
𝐕𝐋 = √𝟑 𝐕𝐩
𝐈𝐋 = 𝐈𝐏
153
3.1.5. USE OF POWER FACTOR IN ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
Introduction
Performance Standard
1. Identify power triangle i.e. active, apparent and reactive power
2. Perform use of power factor
3. Perform calculations involving power factor correction
4. Apply methods of power factor correction
Information Sheet
Power and power factor
Power factor (𝑝. 𝑓.) is defined as the cosine of the phase angle between the current and voltage:
If the current lags the voltage as shown in Fig. 10.5, we say that the 𝑝. 𝑓. is lagging, and if the current leads
the voltage as shown in Fig. 10.6, the 𝑝. 𝑓. is said to be leading. From the trigonometry of the impedance
triangle shown in Fig. 10.7,𝑝. 𝑓. is also equal to:
The electrical power in a circuit is the product of the instantaneous values of the voltage and current.
Figure 67 shows the voltage and current waveform for a pure inductor and pure capacitor. The power
waveform is obtained from the product of V and I at every instant in the cycle. It can be seen that the power
waveform reverses every quarter cycle, indicating that energy is alternately being fed into and taken out
of the inductor and capacitor. When considered over one complete cycle, the positive and negative portions
are equal, showing that the average power consumed by a pure inductor or capacitor is zero. This shows
that inductors and capacitors store energy during one part of the voltage cycle and feed it back into the
supply later in the cycle. Inductors store energy as a magnetic field and capacitors as an electric field.
In an electric circuit more power is taken from the supply than is fed back into it, since some power is
dissipated by the resistance of the circuit, and therefore:
154
Figure 42: waveform for the ac power in purely inductive and purely capacitive circuit
In any 𝑑. 𝑐. circuit the power consumed is given by the product of the voltage and current, because in a
𝑑. 𝑐. circuit voltage and current are in phase In an 𝑎. 𝑐. circuit the power consumed is given by the product
of the current and that part of the voltage which is in phase with the current. The in-phase component of
the voltage is given by Vcos 𝜑, and so power can also be given by the equation:
The power factor of most industrial loads is lagging because the machines and discharge lighting used in
industry are mostly inductive. This causes an additional magnetizing current to be drawn from the supply,
which does not produce power, but does need to be supplied, making supply cables larger.
Power Triangle
Power Triangle is the representation of a right angle triangle showing the relation between active the
power, reactive power and apparent power. When each component of the current that is the active
component (𝐼𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜙) or the reactive component (𝐼𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜙) is then multiplied by the voltage V, a power
triangle is obtained shown in the figure 68.
155
Figure 43: Power triangle
The power which is actually consumed or utilized in an AC Circuit is called True power or Active Power
or real power. It is measured in kilowatt (kW) or MW. The power which flows back and forth that means
it moves in both the direction in the circuit or reacts upon it, is called Reactive Power. The reactive power
is measured in kilovolt-ampere reactive (kVAR) or MVAR. The product of root means square (RMS)
value of voltage and current is known as Apparent Power. This power is measured in KVA or MVA.
The following point shows the relationship between the following quantities and is explained by graphical
representation called Power Triangle shown above.
i. When an active component of current is multiplied by the circuit voltage V, it results in active
power.it is this power which produces torque in the motor, heat in the heater, etc. This power is
measured by the wattmeter.
ii. When the reactive component of the current is multiplied by the circuit voltage, it gives reactive
power. This power determines the power factor, and it flows back and froths in the circuit.
iii. When the circuit current is multiplied by the circuit voltage, it results in the apparent power.
iv. From the power triangle shown above the power, the factor may be determined by taking the ratio
of true power to the apparent power.
𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑘𝑊
Power factor (cos 𝜑) = 𝐴𝑝𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 = 𝑘𝑉𝐴
156
As we know simply power means the product of voltage and current but in AC circuit except for pure
resistive circuit, there is usually a phase difference between voltage and current and thus VI does not give
real or true power in the circuit
157
c) The load on the power system is varying; being high during morning and evening and low at other
times. During low load period, supply voltage is increased which increases the magnetization
current thus decreased power factor.
Ways of improving a low power factor
i. Use of static capacitor-capacitor is connected in parallel with the equipment operating at a lagging
power factor. The capacitor draws a leading current and partly or completely neutralizes the
lagging reactive component of load current and thus raises power factor
ii. Synchronous condenser-takes a leading current when overexcited and thus behaves like a
capacitor. An overexcited synchronous motor running on no load is known as synchronous
condenser. When connected in parallel with the supply, it takes a leading current which partly
neutralizes the lagging reactive component of the load hence improving the power factor.
iii. Phase Advancers-This provides exciting current from another ac source since the low power factor
is as a result of stator winding drawing exciting current which lags behind the supply voltage by
90o.
Calculation involving power factor correction
A Three phase motor connected to 400V, 50Hz takes 31.7A at a power factor of 0.7 lagging. Calculate
the capacitance required in parallel with the motor to raise the power factor to 0.9 lagging.
Solution:
The circuit and phasor diagrams are shown in Figs. 6.8 and 6.9 respectively. Here
Motor M is taking a current IM of 31·7A. The current IC taken by the capacitor must be such that when
combined with IM, the resultant current I lags the voltage by an angle φ where cos φ = 0·9.
Referring to the phasor diagram in
Active component of IM = IM cos φ M = 31·7 × 0·7 = 22·19A
Active component of I = I cos φ = I × 0·9
These components are represented in the phasor diagram
22.19
𝐼= = 24·65A
0.9
158
or 11·85 = 400 × 2π × 50 × C
∴ C = 94·3 × 10−6 F = 94·3 𝜇𝑭
⇒ 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝛟𝐦 = √𝟏 − 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 𝝓𝒎
= √1 − 0.72
= 𝟎. 𝟕𝟏𝟒
Self-Assessment Questions
1. What does the term power factor mean? (2 Marks)
2. What are the causes of low power factors? (4 Marks)
3. Which are the ways used to improve the power factor of a system? (4 Marks)
4. A 230 V supply feeds three 1.84 kW loads with power factors of 1, 0.8 and 0.4. Calculate the
current at each power factor. (5 Marks)
3.1.5.5. Tools, Equipment and Materials
Recommended Resources
i. IEE regulations
ii. Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
iii. Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
iv. Manufacturers’ catalogues
v. British standards
vi. KEBS standards
3.1.5.6. References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
5. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
160
6. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
7. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/. (2020,
December 20). Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/
8. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
12. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
17. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
161
18. Linsley, T. (2008). Basic Electrical Installation Work. Elsevier Ltd.
23. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
162
b. Synchronous condenser-takes a leading current when overexcited and thus behaves like a
capacitor. An overexcited synchronous motor running on no load is known as synchronous
condenser. When connected in parallel with the supply, it takes a leading current which partly
neutralizes the lagging reactive component of the load hence improving the power factor.
c. Phase Advancers-This provides exciting current from another ac source since the low power
factor is as a result of stator winding drawing exciting current which lags behind the supply
voltage by 90o.
4. A 230 V supply feeds three 1.84 kW loads with power factors of 1, 0.8 and 0.4. (5 Marks)
i. Current at 1.0 power factor.
𝑃
The current is given by: 𝐼 = 𝑉 cos ∅
It can be seen from these calculations that a 1.84 kW load supplied at a power factor of 0.4 would
require a 20 A cable, while the same load at unity power factor could be supplied with an 8 A cable.
There may also be the problem of higher voltage drops in the supply cables. As a result, the supply
companies encourage installation engineers to improve their power factor to a value close to unity (1.0)
and sometimes charge penalties if the power factor falls below predetermined value, say 0.8
Terms in earthing
Current rating of a fuse – it is the current the fuse will carry continuously without blowing or
deteriorating.
Rated minimum fusing current – it is the minimum current at which the fuse will blow at a specified
time. This may vary between 1.25 - 2.5 the current rating of the fuse.
Fusing factor –The relationship between the rated minimum fusing current and the current rating is called
the fusing factor.
Discrimination – relate to the time current characteristic of protection devices sustained. This is the ability
of a fuse to distinguish between a transient and high current e.g. motor starting current and continuous
fault current
(a) To maintain the potential of any part of an electrical system at a definite value with respect to
earth.
(b) To allow fault current to flow to earth in the event of an earth fault so that the protective gears
operates to isolate the faulty circuit.
(c) So that in the event of a fault, apparatus normally ‘dead’ cannot reach a dangerous potential
with respect to earth.
i. Connection to the metal sheath of armoring of supply authority underground cable (concentric
earthing system)
ii. Connection to the continuous earth wire provided by Supply authority where the distribution
of energy is by overhead lines.
iii. Connection to the earth electrode sunk into the ground for the purpose
iv. Installation of automatic earth fault protection device e.g. ELCB
Fuses.
A fuse element consists essentially of a piece of copper or tin-lead alloy wire which will melt when
carrying a predetermined current. This element with contact carrier, and base is called a fuse. It is placed
in series with the circuit or sub-circuit to be protected, and automatically breaks the circuit when
overloaded. In general, the regulations regarding fuses require that fuses shall be accessible, and shall be
164
fitted either on the front of a switch board or in a protecting case. In most cases in installation work the
fuses are fitted in a distribution board.
The current rating or normal current-carrying capacity of a fuse should not exceed the current rating of the
smallest conductor in the circuit protected by the fuse, account being taken of the class of excess- current
protection provided by the fuse, coarse or close. For electric motors, a higher fuse rating is allowable.
The fusing values of normal duty fuses vary from 160 to 200 percent of the carrying capacity.
Types of fuses
a. Rewireable fuses.
In this type, fuse wire is placed in a removable fuse link. The fuse link may be of porcelain or other suitable
insulating materials, it is so constructed that there is no danger to the operator in removing the fuse link.
The fuse wire is connected between two terminals and passes through an asbestos tube or is in intimate
contact with a sheet of asbestos. The fuse link is push-fitted into the fuse base to make the connection
through suitable contacts. Although the material cost of replacing a blown fuse wire in a Rewirable fuse
is negligible, nevertheless this fuse had disadvantages, the chief being the deterioration of the fuse wire
over a period, and another the possibility of renewal by the wrong size of fuse wire.
b. Cartridge fuses
The cartridge fuse consists of a sealed tube with metal end caps. The fuse wire passes through the tube
from cap to cap and is welded or soldered to the inside of the cap. There is sometimes a blowout device in
the side of the tube to indicate when the fuse is blown. When the fuse is blown the whole cartridge must
be replaced. Cartridge fuses only are used in fused plugs, such as the common ring-circuit 13 –A plug.
165
Figure 45: Construction of HRC fuse
Distribution boards.
By definition, the distribution board is an assemblage of parts, including one or more fuses or circuit-
breakers arranged for the distribution of electrical energy to final sub–circuits or to other distribution
boards.
167
The purpose of this test is:-
a) To measure the resistance of the earth continuity conductor.
b) To check that the earth continuity heavy leakage currents.
c) To ensure that the earth electrode is effectively connected to the general mass of earth.
Earth Continuity
Earth continuity is making sure that should there be an electrical fault, all exposed metalwork in a building
is bonded together and connected to the earth block in the consumer unit, leaking the current to earth and
automatically disconnecting the supply. An earth continuity test will verify that exposed metalwork in a
building is bonded together and connected to the earthing block in the consumer unit.
The ohmmeter leads are connected between the points being tested, between simultaneously accessible
conductive parts e.g. pipe works, sinks etc. This test will verify that the conductor is sound.
Transformer
Fault
Earthed metal
Earth lead
Earth
electrode
Earh return
Method
The Line-earth loop tester, operating on fall mains voltage, passes a short duration current of
approximately 20A from the line conductor, through the consumer’s earth continuity conductor and the
earth return path to the neutral of the supply transformer. This instrument measures the value of the loop
in Ohms.
Readings
The minimum permissible reading depends on the operating conditions but the two main factors are:-
Operating current of fuse or circuit breaker protecting circuit.
Supply voltage.
Example
If the circuit fuse operated at 50A and the supply voltage is 240V then the resistance of the earth fault loop
240 𝑉
must not be more than = 4𝞨 . If the resistance is higher than this value the fuse will not open
60 𝐴
L
E
N
13A
socket
outlet
Tester
AC
A C B
10m
20m
170
𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝐴 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶
𝑅=
𝐶𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡
3.1.6.2.Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop Practice
171
ii. Pliers ii. Cables
iii. Screw drivers iii. Light fittings
iv. Hammers iv. Accessories
v. Chisels v. Conduits and fittings
vi. Allen keys vi. Cable trays
vii. Electrician knives vii. Cable ducts
viii. Crimping tools viii. Trunkings
ix. Bending springs ix. Computers
x. Bending machine x. Drawing instruments
xi. Steel tapes xi. Screws
xii. Draw wires
xiii. Hack saws
xiv. Drilling tools
xv. Stock and die
xvi. Bench vice
xvii. Machine vice
xviii. PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust masks,
helmets, ear muffs, industrial boots
Reference materials
I. IEE regulations
II. Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
III. Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
IV. Manufacturers’ catalogues
V. British standards
VI. KEBS standards
3.1.6.5.References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
2. Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
172
6. (n.d.). County by-laws.
10. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
11. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
13. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
17. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
173
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
18. https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png.
(2020, November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
22. https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-
electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-
bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
24. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
27. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
174
iii. Fusing factor: –The relationship between the rated minimum fusing current and the current
rating is called the fusing factor.
iv. Overcurrent: – Any current beyond the current rating of a fuse
v. Discrimination: – relate to the time current characteristic of protection devices sustained.
This is the ability of a fuse to distinguish between a transient and high current e.g. motor
starting current and continuous fault current.
2. Reasons for earthing (6 Marks)
a) To maintain the potential of any part of an electrical system at a definite value with respect to
earth.
b) To allow fault current to flow to earth in the event of an earth fault so that the protective gears
operates to isolate the faulty circuit.
c) So that in the event of a fault, apparatus normally ‘dead’ cannot reach a dangerous potential
with respect to earth.
i. Connection to the metal sheath of armoring of supply authority underground cable (concentric
earthing system)
ii. Connection to the continuous earth wire provided by Supply authority where the distribution
of energy is by overhead lines.
iii. Connection to the earth electrode sunk into the ground for the purpose
iv. Installation of automatic earth fault protection device e.g. ELCB
4. Tests related to earthing which should be carried out in a completed electrical installation
(3 Marks)
a. Earth electrode resistance test
b. Earth continuity conductor test
c. Earth loop impedance test
175
3.1.7. Apply lightning protection measures
3.1.7.0. Introduction
To apply lightning protection measures, identify types of lightning strokes, identify components of
lightning protection system, establish tests to be carried out in lightning protection system and
determine application of lightning protection system.
Performance Standard
1. Identify types of lightning strokes.
2. Identify components of lightning protection system.
3. Establish tests to be carried out in lightning protection system.
4. Determine application of lightning protection system.
Information Sheet
Lightning protection
Lightning is a sudden electrostatic discharge that occurs during a thunderstorm. This discharge occurs
between electrically charged regions of a cloud (called intra-cloud lightning or IC), between two clouds
(CC lightning), or between a cloud and the ground (CG lightning).
Types of lightning
a. Normal lightning
b. Sheet lightning
c. Heat lightning
d. Ball lightning
e. Red sprite
f. Blue jet
Colors of lightning
i
a) Blue lightning within a cloud indicates the presence of hail
b) Red lightning within a cloud indicates the presence of rain
c) Yellow/orange lightning occurs when there is a large concentration of dust in the air
d) White lightning is a sign of low humidity, white is the colour of lightning that most often ignites
forest fires
Effects of lightning
i. Physical damage - Fire, explosion, mechanical destruction
ii. Injuries/death to living being
ii
This is the part of the earth termination which makes electrical contact with earth.
NB
Roof and down conductors are generally annealed copper strips, as are any interconnections. Down
conductors are secured to the building by ‘holdfast’ fixings made from gunmetal. Earth electrodes can
be copper rods or copper plates.
Testing
All lightning protection systems should be inspected and tested after completion and at intervals of twelve
months (six months if explosives are stored in the building) the tests should verify electrical continuity of
the system and the resistance to the general mass of earth. This must not exceed 10 ohms using the
electrode testing method.
Record test should be kept on site by the person responsible for maintaining the installation.
iii
The inspection of the lightning protection system must be part of the maintenance routine of the buildings
and the annual action plans.
a. The lightning rods, or air terminals must work correctly. In the case of the early streamer
emission (ESE), the element that emits the upward leader should be fully operational in order to
maintain the time of advance of the ESE air terminal that has been measured in the laboratory.
b. Down conductors must maintain continuity at all times and be well fixed to avoid sparks and
breakage.
c. Ground resistance must remain below 10 ohms so the lightning current dissipates quickly,
minimizing the return currents and the contact voltages, which that can be very dangerous for
people.
iv
electrical continuity of the down conductors and the correct performance of the lightning rod according
to the specifications indicated by the manufacturer.
In the case of ESEs, the correct operation of the air terminals must also be checked. The lightning rods
are installed at the highest point of the structure, always two meters above any element to be protected
and usually on a six-meter mast. Therefore, in most cases it is difficult to have access these air terminals
and puts the operator is put in danger when carrying these inspections.
To make this maintenance task easier, a remote tester has been incorporated to the ESE terminal DAT
CONTROLER REMOTE. By doing so, it is not necessary to physically access the air terminal, since it
has a system that daily checks its state and sends the result to a web application where the updated data
can be consulted at any time.
Regarding the earthing system, it is essential to measure the earth resistance, as it could vary with time.
It is also important to ensure that it remains below 10 Ω. It is recommended to check the earthing
annually. In fact, in many countries there is a regulation that requires this. If high earth values are
recorded, it will be necessary to use a ground enhancing product such as Conductiver Plus or adapt the
system to include more earth rods.
Likewise, the inspection must verify that the electrical lines which require protection against
overvoltages are protected with adequate surge protection devices.
After having carried out the inspections described and when deterioration or anomalies in the system are
detected, it is essential to repair or carry out the necessary corrective measures in the shortest time
possible to ensure optimum protection.
In both periodic inspection (visual and complete) the person in charge of the maintenance actions must
elaborate a report which informs the inspections that have been carried out, providing data and
photographs.
v
Figure 53: Lightning rod image
vi
In some countries where the rainy season has high rates of precipitation and is concentrated in a very
short period of the year. In these cases, it is very important to carry out the maintenance of lightning
rods before the beginning of this period of the year. Contact a specialist to perform necessary lightning
protection system inspection and receive appropriate advice.
3.1.7.3.Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop Practice
vii
3.1.7.4. Self-Assessment Questions
1. What is the meaning of the term lightning?
2. Which types lightning strokes do you know?
3. What are the structures of air termination or termination network used in buildings?
4. What are the components of lightning protection system?
i. IEE regulations
viii
ii. Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
iii. Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
iv. Manufacturers’ catalogues
v. British standards
vi. KEBS standards
ix
3.1.7.6.References
1. Bird, J. (2007). Electrical and ElectronicsPrinciple technology. Newnes.
4. https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-classification-of-electrical-measuring-
instruments/. (2020, December 9). Retrieved from Electrical instruments and classification of
electrical measuring instruments: https://automationforum.co/electrical-instruments-and-
classification-of-electrical-measuring-instruments/
9. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
12. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
x
xi
3.1.7.7.Model Answers to Self-Assessment Questions
1. Lightning (2 Marks)
Lightning is a sudden electrostatic discharge that occurs during a thunderstorm. This discharge
occurs between electrically charged regions of a cloud (called intra-cloud lightning or IC), between
two clouds (CC lightning), or between a cloud and the ground (CG lightning).
2. Lightning strokes (3 Marks)
i. Different types of strikes
ii. Cloud to cloud
iii. Ground to cloud
iv. Cloud to cloud
3.1.8.0. Introduction
Apply electromagnetic field theory, identify electromagnetic radiation sources, determine detectors
of electromagnetic radiations, apply electromagnetic waves, identify electromagnetic laws and
establish behaviours and effects of electromagnetic waves.
3.1.1.1. Performance Standard
1. Apply electromagnetic field theory,
2. Identify electromagnetic radiation sources
xii
3. Determine detectors of electromagnetic radiations,
4. Apply electromagnetic waves,
5. Identify electromagnetic laws and establish behaviours and effects of electromagnetic waves.
Electromagnetic field
A property of space caused by the motion of an electric charge. A stationary charge will produce only an
electric field in the surrounding space. If the charge is moving, a magnetic field is also produced. An
electric field can be produced also by a changing magnetic field. The mutual interaction of electric and
magnetic fields produces an electromagnetic field, which is considered as having its own existence in
space apart from the charges or currents (a stream of moving charges) with which it may be related. Under
certain circumstances, this electromagnetic field can be described as a wave transporting electromagnetic
energy. Figure 80 shows frequency ranges of electromagnetic fields.
xiii
Most man-made electromagnetic fields reverse their direction at regular intervals of time, ranging from
high radio frequencies (mobile phones) through intermediate frequencies (computer screens) to extremely
low frequencies (power lines).
The term static refers to fields that do not vary with time (i.e. with a frequency of 0 Hz). Static magnetic
fields are used in medical imaging and generated by appliances using direct current.
ELF [Extremely Low power lines; domestic distribution lines; domestic appliances;
0-300 Hz
Frequencies] electric engines in cars, trains and tramways; welding devices
RF [Radio 100 kHz - 300 mobile telephones; broadcasting and TV; microwave ovens;
Frequencies] GHz radar and radio transceivers; portable radios; MRI
xiv
categorize the radiation into the types shown above. The examples here are given in order of increasing
frequency and decreasing wavelength. FM radio, for instance, is transmitted at frequencies around 100
MHz, have wavelengths of 3 m and can be detected by an aerial. The eye can detect wavelengths in the
region of 380-750 nm, less than a thousandth of a millimetre. Electromagnetic radiation, with even higher
frequencies, and therefore smaller wavelengths, is ionizing, which means that a large enough exposure
can damage DNA and cause cancer. The frequency of UV radiation is around ten million times higher
than that of FM radio.
A variety of sensors are required for detecting the different ranges of electromagnetic radiation. Aerials
are suitable for detecting radio waves and microwave transmissions as used by Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
devices for example. Optical sensors such as photodiodes and charge-coupled devices are used for the
infra-red and visible wavelengths. Geiger-Müller tubes use the ionizing properties of the higher
frequencies to produce a current pulse which can be used to generate an audible click Scintillators
fluoresce when they detect ionizing radiation. Microwave sensors are recently proven successfully over
the range of 1-300 GHz to suit various industrial applications including non-invasive real-time monitoring
of the oil and water pipe line constituents, passive radiometer and radar applications for mapping, imaging
and tomography. Recent and future development of such sensors having high accuracy and reliability in
health care applications including detection of tumours, alcohol, drugs and sugar in the blood stream. A
new development has emerged in the use of optical imaging in radiotherapy that by measuring the patient
movements very accurately which will have a tremendous potential for the health care industry. Future
sensors will emerge in the form of nanoscale with hybrid multi-functionality sensors meeting the demands
of many challenging applications.
Microwave oven is most familiar as the energy source for cooking food. It generate microwave radiation
of appropriate frequency in the working space of the oven where food is kept. The energy is not wasted in
heating up the vessel as in conventional method. The energy is directly delivered to water molecules which
are shared by the entire food.
(b) Radar
Radar is acronym for Radio Detection And Ranging. Radar is an electromagnetic system, used for
sensing, detecting, and locating the object present in the ambience. Used to detect direction, speed,
xv
velocity, range, altitude of an object with the help of radio waves. Radar find applications in various
systems such as air traffic control to track planes both on and off the grounds it is also used to track
satellites.
(c) Wireless Communication
Wireless communication is the transfer of information between two or more points that are not connected
by an electrical conductor. The term is commonly used in the telecommunications industry to refer to
telecommunications systems (e.g., radio transmitters and receivers, remote controls, etc.) that use some
form of energy (e.g., radio waves, acoustic energy, etc.) to transfer information without the use of wires.
Information is transferred in this manner over both short and long distances. Wireless operations permit
services, such as long-range communications, that are otherwise impossible (or impractical) to implement
with the use of wires e.g from earlier technologies such as GSM, CDMA and GPRS, to 3G networks such
as W-CDMA, EDGE or CDMA2000, another popular supporting technology is Wi-Fi, a wireless local
area network that enables portable computing devices to connect easily to the Internet.
Electromagnetic laws
i. Faraday’s law
Faraday’s law of induction states that the emf induced in a circuit is equal to the rate of change of magnetic
flux through the circuit:
xvi
iii. Fleming’s laws
a) Right hand rule
The Right Hand Rule, illustrated at left, simply shows how a current-carrying wire generates a magnetic
field. If you point your thumb in the direction of the current, as shown, and let your fingers assume a
curved position, the magnetic field circling around those wires flows in the direction in which your four
fingers point.
xvii
Common properties
Electromagnetic waves are members of a family of waves with common properties called the
electromagnetic spectrum.
Differences
xviii
a. wavelength;
b. Frequency.
Characteristics of Waves:
Amplitude
· The maximum distance the molecules are displaced from their starting place
· As energy , amplitude
Wavelength
Frequency
Amplitude wavelength
Speed of Waves:
xix
The speed of a wave is determined by the number of waves passing a point per second and the length of
the wave.
• If f , or f ,
Electromagnetic shielding
Electromagnetic shielding is the practice of reducing the electromagnetic field in a space by blocking the
field with barriers made of conductive or magnetic materials. Shielding is typically applied to enclosures
to isolate electrical devices from their surroundings, and to cables to isolate wires from the environment
through which the cable runs. Electromagnetic shielding that blocks radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic
radiation is also known as RF shielding.
The shielding can reduce the coupling of radio waves, electromagnetic fields, and electrostatic fields. A
conductive enclosure used to block electrostatic fields is also known as a Faraday cage. The amount of
reduction depends very much upon the material used, its thickness, the size of the shielded volume and
the frequency of the fields of interest and the size, shape and orientation of holes in a shield to an incident
electromagnetic field.
Materials used
Typical materials used for electromagnetic shielding include sheet metal, metal screen, and metal foam.
Common sheet metals for shielding include copper, brass, nickel, silver, steel, and tin. Shielding
effectiveness, that is how well a shield reflects or absorbs/suppresses electromagnetic radiation, is affected
by the physical properties of the metal. These may include conductivity, solderability, permeability,
thickness, and weight. A metal's properties are an important consideration in material selection. For
example, electrically dominant waves are reflected by highly conductive metals like copper, silver, and
brass, while magnetically dominant waves are absorbed/suppressed by a less conductive metal such as
steel or stainless steel. Further, any holes in the shield or mesh must be significantly smaller than the
wavelength of the radiation that is being kept out, or the enclosure will not effectively approximate an
unbroken conducting surface.
xx
Another commonly used shielding method, especially with electronic goods housed in plastic enclosures,
is to coat the inside of the enclosure with a metallic ink or similar material. The ink consists of a carrier
material loaded with a suitable metal, typically copper or nickel, in the form of very small particulates. It
is sprayed on to the enclosure and, once dry, produces a continuous conductive layer of metal, which can
be electrically connected to the chassis ground of the equipment, thus providing effective shielding.
Electromagnetic shielding is the process of lowering the electromagnetic field in an area by barricading it
with conductive or magnetic material. Copper is used for radio frequency (RF) shielding because it absorbs
radio and other electromagnetic waves. Properly designed and constructed RF shielding enclosures satisfy
most RF shielding needs, from computer and electrical switching rooms to hospital CAT-scan and MRI
facilities
Skin effect
Skin effect is the tendency of an alternating electric current (AC) to become distributed within a conductor
such that the current density is largest near the surface of the conductor and decreases exponentially with
greater depths in the conductor. The electric current flows mainly at the "skin" of the conductor, between
the outer surface and a level called the skin depth. Skin depth depends on the frequency of the alternating
current; as frequency increases, current flow moves to the surface, resulting in less skin depth. Skin effect
reduces the effective cross-section of the conductor and thus increases its effective resistance. Skin effect
is caused by opposing eddy currents induced by the changing magnetic field resulting from the alternating
current. At 60 Hz in copper, the skin depth is about 8.5 mm. At high frequencies the skin depth becomes
much smaller.
Increased AC resistance caused by the skin effect can be mitigated by using specially woven litz wire.
Because the interior of a large conductor carries so little of the current, tubular conductors such as pipe
can be used to save weight and cost. The skin effect has practical consequences in the analysis and design
of radio-frequency and microwave circuits, transmission lines (or waveguides), and antennas. It is also
important at mains frequencies (50–60 Hz) in AC electrical power transmission and distribution systems.
It is one of the reasons for preferring high-voltage direct current for long distance power transmission.
xxi
Conductors, typically in the form of wires, may be used to transmit electrical energy or signals using an
alternating current flowing through that conductor. The charge carriers constituting that current, usually
electrons, are driven by an electric field due to the source of electrical energy. A current in a conductor
produces a magnetic field in and around the conductor. When the intensity of current in a conductor
changes, the magnetic field also changes. The change in the magnetic field, in turn, creates an electric
field which opposes the change in current intensity. This opposing electric field is called “counter-
electromotive force” (back EMF). The back EMF is strongest at the center of the conductor, and forces
the conducting electrons to the outside of the conductor.
Regardless of the driving force, the current density is found to be greatest at the conductor's surface, with
a reduced magnitude deeper in the conductor. That decline in current density is known as the skin effect
and the skin depth is a measure of the depth at which the current density falls to 1/e of its value near the
surface. Over 98% of the current will flow within a layer 4 times the skin depth from the surface. This
behavior is distinct from that of direct current which usually will be distributed evenly over the cross-
section of the wire.
An alternating current may also be induced in a conductor due to an alternating magnetic field according
to the law of induction. An electromagnetic wave impinging on a conductor will therefore generally
produce such a current; this explains the reflection of electromagnetic waves from metals. Although the
term "skin effect" is most often associated with applications involving transmission of electric currents,
the skin depth also describes the exponential decay of the electric and magnetic fields, as well as the
density of induced currents, inside a bulk material when a plane wave impinges on it at normal incidence
3.1.1.3.Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop Practice
xxii
2. Identify electromagnetic
radiation sources
3. Determine detectors of
electromagnetic radiations,
4. Apply electromagnetic
waves,
5. Identify electromagnetic
laws and establish
behaviours and effects of
electromagnetic waves
xxiii
3.1.1.4. Self-Assessment Questions
1. What are the sources of electromagnetic fields? (4 Marks)
2. Which detectors can be used to sense electromagnetic waves? (4 Marks)
3. What are the applications of Electromagnetic waves? (3 Marks)
4. What are the properties of Electromagnetic waves? (4 Marks)
a) IEE regulations
xxiv
b) Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
c) Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
d) Manufacturers’ catalogues
e) British standards
f) KEBS standards
xxv
3.1.1.6. References
1. AlShamma'a, A. (n.d.). Electromagnetic radiation sensors. Sensor review, Volume 28, issue 3.
6. https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm.
(2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm: https://copublications.greenfacts.org/en/electromagnetic-
fields/l-2/2-exposure-radio-fields.htm
7. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/. (2020,
December 20). Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-
physics/chapter/applications-of-em-waves/
8. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm:
https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/electromagnetic-fields/l-
2/1-electromagnetic-fields.htm
xxvi
12. https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules. (2020, December 20). Retrieved from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-
academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-hand-rules:
https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/watch-play/interactive/right-and-left-
hand-rules
13. https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png.
(2020, November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
18. J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education
Ltd.
20. Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36).
dublin, Ireland: Solas.
xxvii
d) RF (radio frequencies)
2. Detectors which can be used to sense electromagnetic waves (4 Marks)
(a) Optical sensors
(b) Photodiodes
(c) IR
(d) Microwave sensors
3. Applications of Electromagnetic waves (3 Marks)
i. Microwave oven
ii. Radar
iii. Wireless communication
4. Properties of Electromagnetic waves (4 Marks)
i. Transverse
ii. Travel through a vacuum
iii. Can be reflected
iv. can be refracted
CHAPTER 1 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS
c. Working from the left evaluate divisions and multiplications as they are encountered
d. Working from the left evaluate additions and subtraction as they are
The four basic arithmetic operations are: addition and subtraction, multiplication and division
The order of precedence of operations for problems containing fractions is the same as that for integers,
i.e. remembered by BODMAS (Brackets, Of, Division, Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction).
Rules that govern basic laws of arithmetic:
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4. Commutativity
Two integers can be added or multiplied in either order without affecting the result. For example:
5 + 8 = 8 + 5 = 13 𝑎𝑛𝑑 5 × 8 = 8 × 5 = 40
Addition and multiplication are commutative operations, whereas subtraction and division are not
commutative operations.
4 − 2 ≠ 2 − 4 𝑎𝑠 4 − 2 = 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2 − 4 = −2
4 ÷ 2 ≠ 2 ÷ 4 𝑎𝑠 4 ÷ 2 = 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2 ÷ 4 = 0.5
5. Associativity
The way in which three or more integers are associated under addition or multiplication does not affect
the result.
6. Distributivity
Multiplication is distributed over addition and subtraction from both the right and left.
Division is distributed over addition and subtraction from the right but not from the left.
Adding two numbers gives their sum and subtracting two numbers gives their difference. For example:
7 + 3 = 10
7−3=4
3 − 7 = −4
Adding a negative number is the same as subtracting its positive counterpart. For example:
7 + (−2) = 5
Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding its positive counterpart. For example:
7 − (−2) = 9
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Multiplying two numbers gives their product while dividing two positive and negative numbers gives their
quotient.
Multiplying and dividing two positive or two negative numbers gives a positive number.
Fractions
2
When 2 is divided by 3, it may be written as 3is called a fraction. The number above the line, i.e. 2, is
called the numerator and the number below the line, i.e. 3, is called the denominator. When the value of
2
the numerator is less than the value of the denominator, the fraction is called a proper fraction; thus 3 is a
proper fraction. When the value of the numerator is greater than the denominator, the fraction is called
7
an improper fraction. Thus 3 is an improper fraction and can also be expressed as a mixed number, that
7 1
is, an integer and a proper fraction. Thus the improper fraction 3 is equal to the mixed number 23
When a fraction is simplified by dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number, the
process is called cancelling. Cancelling by 0 is not permissible.
1 2
Simplify: 3 + 7
The lowest common multiple (i.e. LCM) of the two denominators is 3 d 7, i.e. 21
Expressing each fraction so that their denominators are 21, gives:
1 2 1 7 2 3 7 6 13
+ = × + × = + =
3 7 3 7 7 3 21 21 21
1 2 1 3 1
Simplify: 3 − (5 + 4) ÷ (8 × 3)
1 2 1 3 1 1 4×2+1×5 3
Solution 3 − (5 + 4) ÷ (8 × 3) = 3 − ( ) ÷ (24)
20
1 13 1 1 13 8
− ÷ = − ×
3 20 8 3 20 1
1 26 (1×5)−(26×3) −73 13
− = = = −4 15
3 5 15 15
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Decimals
The decimal system of numbers is based on the digits 0 to 9. A number such as 53.17 is called a decimal
fraction, a decimal point separating the integer part, i.e. 53, from the fractional part, i.e. 0.17
A number which can be expressed exactly as a decimal fraction is called a terminating decimal and
those which cannot be expressed exactly as a decimal fraction are called non-terminating decimals.
3 4
Thus, 2 = 1.5 is a terminating decimal, but 3 = 1.3333 is a non-terminating decimal. 1.33333…can be
Square root
1
1
The square root of a number is when the index is2, and the square root of 2 is written as 22 21/2 or√2.
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There are always two answers when finding the square root of a number and this is shown by putting
both a + and a - sign in front of the answer to a square root problem.
𝐴 = 6 × 2.5 = 15𝑘𝑔
Conversions into percentages
Percentages are used to give a common standard and are fractions having the number 100 as their
25 1
denominators. For example, 25 per cent means 100 i.e. 4 and is written 25%.
Inversely proportional: when one value decreases at the same rate the other increases.
ix. Type the number you are to work with in your scientific calculator.
x. Press the “log” button on the calculator.
xi. From your screen, obtain the exponent from the original number you entered.
xii. Check your results.
1. Learning Activities
1 1 2 1 1
3. Create an instruction sheet with the following five fractions: 3 , 8 , 3 , 4 𝑎𝑛𝑑 5
Create a pizza (circular cut outs), using construction paper and decorate the toppings to represent
each fraction.
For example, if they had a quarter (fourth), they should cover one-quarter of the pizza with a specific
pattern.
4. Using your calculator check that you agree with the answers to the following problems:
Evaluate the following, correct to 4 significant figures:
c. 4.7826 + 0.02713 = 4.80973 = 4.810
d. 21.93 × 0.012981 = 0.2846733 = 0.2847
Evaluate the following, correct to 3 decimal places:
c. √0.007328
d. √52.91 − √31.76
1. Self-Assessment
7. Place the appropriate symbol < 𝑜𝑟 > between each of the following pairs of numbers:
d. 3 _ 2
e. 8 _ -13
f. -25 _ 0
8. Find the value of each of the following:
c. 𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗 ÷ 𝟑 − 𝟐 × 𝟓
d. (𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗) ÷ (𝟑 − 𝟐) × 𝟓
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9. Complete the following:
𝟒
c. =
𝟓
d. 𝟒𝟖% 𝒐𝒇 𝟓𝟎 =
10. Write the following proportions as ratios:
𝟏 𝟏 𝟑
b. 𝒐𝒇 𝑨, 𝟓 𝒐𝒇 𝑩, 𝟏𝟎 𝒐𝒇 𝑪
𝟐
12. Round each of the following decimal numbers, first to 3 significant figures and to 2
decimal places:
c. 21.355
d. 0.02456
1.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
• Calculator
• Paper and pencil
• Computer
• Ruler and graph paper
• Marker pen
1.2.1.7 References
Stroud K. A. (2001). Engineering Mathematics. Fifth Edition. North America: Industrial
Press, Inc.
John Bird. (2003). Engineering Mathematics. Fourth Edition. London, UK: Newnes
Elsevier Science
6.2.1.8 Answers to Self-Assessment
7. Place the appropriate symbol < 𝑜𝑟 > between each of the following pairs of
numbers:
d. 3>2
e. 8>-13
f. -25 < 0
8. Find the value of each of the following:
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c. 𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗 ÷ 𝟑 − 𝟐 × 𝟓
13 + (9 ÷ 3) − (2 × 5)
13 + 3 − 10 = (13 + 3) − 10 = 6
d. (𝟏𝟑 + 𝟗) ÷ (𝟑 − 𝟐) × 𝟓
(13 + 9) ÷ (3 − 2) × 5 = 22 ÷ 1 × 5 = (22 ÷ 1) × 5 = 110
9. Complete the following:
𝟒
c. 𝑎𝑠 𝑎 % =
𝟓
4
× 100 = 80%
5
d. 𝟒𝟖% 𝒐𝒇 𝟓𝟎 =
48
× 50 = 24
100
10. Write the following proportions as ratios:
𝟏 𝟏 𝟑
b. 𝒐𝒇 𝑨, 𝟓 𝒐𝒇 𝑩, 𝟏𝟎 𝒐𝒇 𝑪
𝟐
12 12 ÷ 6 2
= =
18 18 ÷ 6 3
𝟏𝟒𝟒
d. 𝟐𝟏
144 144 ÷ 3 48 6
= = =4
21 21 ÷ 3 7 7
12. Round each of the following decimal numbers, first to 3 significant figures and to 2
decimal places:
c. 21.355
21.4 3sf
21.36 2dp
d. 0.02456
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0.025 2sf
0.03 2dp
1.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Use formulae and algebraic expressions for work
1.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers algebra and the learner should be able to: perform calculations involving
Indices as per the concept; perform calculations involving Logarithms as per the concept; use scientific
calculator is used mathematical problems in line with manufacturer’s manual; perform simultaneous
equations as per the rules. Algebra is used throughout engineering, but it is most commonly used in
mechanical, electrical, and civil branches due to the variety of obstacles they face. Engineers need to
find dimensions, slopes, and ways to efficiently create any structure or object.
2.2.1.3 Performance Standard
8. Algebraic linear equations
9. Simultaneous
10. Quadratic
11. Linear graphs
12. Plotting
13. Interpretation
14. Applications of linear graphs
15. Curves of first and second degree
16. Plotting
17. Interpretation
18. Applications
2.2.2 Information Sheet
2.2.2.2 Definitions of terms
Algebra is the study of mathematical symbols and the rules for manipulating these symbols; it is a
unifying thread of almost all of mathematics. It includes everything from elementary equation solving to
the study of abstractions such as groups, rings, and fields.
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Logarithms: This is the power to which a number must be raised in order to get some other number which
means that logarithms is the inverse of the exponential.
Linear equations: A linear equation is any equation of the form 𝒂 + 𝒃𝒙=0 where a and b are real numbers
and 𝒙 is a variable.
Quadratic equation: It is any equation of the form a𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄.It is any equation of the second degree
meaning that one of its terms is a squared.
The lowest factors of 2000 are 2×2×2×2×5×5×5. These factors are written as 24 × 53, where 2 and 5
are called bases and the numbers 4 and 3 are called indices. When an index is an integer it is called a
power. Thus, 24 is called ‘two to the power of four’, and has a base of 2 and an index of 4.
Given𝒃𝒙 , b is known as the base and x is known as the power or index to which b is raised. It can be
interpreted as:
𝒃𝒙 = 𝒃 × 𝒃 × 𝒃 … … … … … … (𝒙 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔)
The reciprocal of a number is when the index is _1 and its value is given by 1, divided by the base.
𝟏
𝟏
The square root of a number is when the index is𝟐, and the square root of 2 is written as 𝟐𝟐 or√𝟐. The
value of a square root is the value of the base which when multiplied by itself gives the number.
Laws of indices
When simplifying calculations involving indices, certain basic rules or laws can be applied, called the
laws of indices.
For any number 𝒙 and 𝒚 the following basic laws hold;
𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙 = 𝒂𝒙+𝒚
𝒂𝒙
= 𝒂𝒙−𝒚
𝒂𝒚
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(𝒂𝒙 )𝒚 = 𝒂𝒙𝒚
𝒙
𝒚
𝒂𝒚 = √𝒂𝒙
𝟏
𝒂−𝒚 = 𝒂𝒚
𝒂𝟎 = 1
Note: The above law only applies if bases are similar e.g. 𝟐𝟑 . 𝟐𝟒 = 𝟐𝟕 =𝟏𝟐𝟖
𝒂𝒙
𝒙
= 𝒂𝒙−𝒚
𝒂
Example:
𝟐𝟒 𝒂𝟏
= 𝟐𝟒−𝟑 = 𝟐𝟏 =𝟐. If 𝒙 and 𝒚 equals one, 𝒙 = 𝟏, 𝒚 = 𝟏 then = 𝒂𝟏−𝟏 = 𝒂𝟎 =1
𝟐𝟑 𝒂𝟏
Example:
(𝒂𝟑 )𝟐 = 𝒂𝟔 = (𝒂𝟐 )𝟑
(𝒂𝒃)𝒙 = 𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙
Example:
(𝒂𝒃)𝟒 = 𝒂𝟒 𝒃𝟒
𝟏
NB: The expression 𝒂−𝒙 is equivalent to 𝒙
𝟏 𝒂𝟎
= = 𝒂𝟎−𝒙 = 𝒂−𝒙
𝒂𝒙 𝒂𝒙
Steps
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Let 𝟐𝒙 = 𝒑
Factorize 𝒑𝟐 + 𝟒𝒑 − 𝟑𝟐 = 𝟎
𝒑𝟐 + 𝟖𝒑 − 𝟒𝒑 − 𝟑𝟐 = 𝟎
𝑷(𝑷 + 𝟖) − 𝟒(𝑷 + 𝟖) = 𝟎
(𝑷 − 𝟒) (𝒑 + 𝟖) = 𝟎
𝑷 = 𝟒 𝟎𝒓 𝒑 = −𝟖
Laws of logarithms
𝑨
𝑳𝒐𝒈 𝑨 − 𝑳𝒐𝒈 𝑩 = Log𝑩
Example:
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟔 − 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟑
𝟔
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟔 − 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟑 =𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 = 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟏𝟎 𝟐
𝟑
Log 𝑩𝒏 = 𝒏 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝑩
Example:
xl
Use the third law to write the alternative form of
Steps
Distribute (𝒙 + 𝟒)(𝟔) = 𝟔𝒙 + 𝟐𝟒
𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟐 (𝟔𝒙 + 𝟐𝟒) = 𝒍𝒐𝒈𝟐 𝟓𝟒
𝒙=𝟓
A scientific calculator is a special electronic calculator that aids the calculation involving problems in
mathematics, engineering and science. It can be used in the following ways;
xli
The steps in using the log functions are;
xiii. Type the number you are to work with in your scientific calculator.
xiv. Press the “log” button on the calculator.
xv. From your screen, obtain the exponent from the original number you entered.
xvi. Check your results.
Obtainment of solution to system of linear equations involving three unknowns
Steps
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒁 = 𝟑𝟒
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
𝒂𝒏𝒅
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒁 = 𝟑𝟒
xlii
Eliminate the same variables from each system
𝟖𝒙 − 𝟔𝒚 + 𝟐𝒛 = −𝟐𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
Simplify
𝟒𝒙 − 𝟑𝒚 + 𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
𝟒𝒙 − 𝟑𝒚 + 𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
−𝟒𝒙 − 𝟐𝒚 − 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟓𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟒𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 + 𝟔𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
Simplify
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = 𝟏𝟕
𝟐𝒙 + 𝒚 + 𝟑𝒛 = 𝟎
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
𝟓𝒚 − 𝟕𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
−𝟓𝒚 − 𝟓𝒛 = −𝟏𝟎
𝟓𝒚 − 𝟕𝒛 = 𝟑𝟒
−𝟏𝟐𝒛 = 𝟐𝟒
xliii
Thus z = −𝟐 , solving for 𝒚, 𝒚 = 𝟒
−𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒𝒚 − 𝟏𝟎𝒛 = 𝟏𝟕
−𝟐 + 𝟒(𝟒) − 𝟏𝟎(−𝟐) = 𝟏𝟕
−𝟐𝒙 = −𝟐 𝒙=𝟏
Also, quadratic equations can be solved through the completing squares method.
By the use of the graphical method.
Example:
Solve using the quadratic formula;
𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏 = 𝟎
Solution:
𝐚=𝟏
𝐛=𝟐
𝐜=𝟏
−𝒃 ±√𝒃𝟐 −𝟒𝒂𝒄
𝒙= 𝟐𝒂
−𝟐 ±√𝟐𝟐 −𝟒×𝟏×𝟏
𝒙= 𝟐×𝟏
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𝒃𝟐 − 𝟒𝒂𝒄 = 𝟐𝟐 − 𝟒 × 𝟏 × 𝟏 = 𝟎
−𝟐 ±√𝟎
𝒙= 𝟐×𝟏
−𝟐
= 𝟐×𝟏 = 𝟏
Calculations involving sequence and series are performed as per the concept
A sequence are numbers or functions arranged in a special order while series is the sum of sequence of
terms.
• Arithmetic sequence: is a set of the numbers that follows a pattern formed by adding a common
difference to the proceeding number.
• Geometric sequence: is a set of numbers that are multiplied (or divided) by a constant called the
common ratio.
Types of series
Arithmetic series is the sum of the terms of arithmetic sequence while geometric series is the sum of the
terms of the geometric sequence. The 𝒏𝒕𝒉 term of the arithmetic sequence is given by 𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅
𝒏
while the sum of terms in the series is given by𝟐 [𝟐𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅 ]. The 𝒏𝒕𝒉 term of a G.P is given
𝒂𝒏
by𝒂𝒓𝒏−𝟏 . The sum of the infinite terms of the series 𝒔𝒏 =𝟏−𝒓
Example
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𝟏, 𝟒, 𝟕, 𝟏𝟎, 𝟏𝟑 … It is an arithmetic sequence with a common difference of 3.
𝟐, 𝟒, 𝟖, 𝟏𝟔, 𝟑𝟐 … Is a geometric sequence with a common ratio of 𝟐
In the arithmetic sequence 𝟏, 𝟒, 𝟕, 𝟏𝟎, 𝟏𝟑, … find the sum of the first 10 terms.
𝒂 = 𝟏, 𝒅=𝟑 𝒏 = 𝟏𝟎
𝒏
Use the formula 𝟐 [𝟐𝒂 + (𝒏 − 𝟏)𝒅 ]
𝟏𝟎
[𝟐(𝟏) + (𝟏𝟎 − 𝟏)𝟑 ]
𝟐
In the geometric sequence𝟐, 𝟒, 𝟖, 𝟏𝟔, 𝟑𝟐. Find the sum of the first 10 terms.
xlvi
Figure 30: Hexagonal Puzzle 2
2. Perform a survey in your locality (in around 50 homesteads) and find out the total number of
rabbits’ population. It is believed that the population will increase by 2% every year. Predict the
rabbit population after 3 years.
2.2.4 Self-Assessment
𝟏 𝟏
1. Find the value of𝟒𝒑𝟐 𝒒𝒓𝟑 , given that 𝒑 = 𝟐, 𝒒 = 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒓 = 𝟏
𝟐 𝟐
11. Simplify:
𝟑 𝟏
(𝒂𝟑 √𝒃√𝒄𝟓 )(√𝒂√𝒃𝒄𝟑 ) And evaluate when 𝒂 = 𝟒 , 𝒃 = 𝟔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄 = 𝟏
xlvii
• Ruler and graph paper
• Dice
2.2.6 References
Anto H & Lolles, C (2013). Elementary Linear Algebra: Applications version
Wilkinson, J.H Beur F.l& Reisch, (2013) Linear Algebra (Vol 12) Springer.
Solution:
Replacing p, q and r with their numerical values gives:
𝟏 𝟑 𝟑
𝟒𝒑𝟐 𝒒𝒓𝟑 = 𝟒(𝟐) × (𝟐𝟐 ) × 𝟐 × ((𝟐) ) = 𝟐𝟕
xlviii
𝟐𝒑 𝟏
= 𝟒𝒒
𝟖𝒑𝒒
𝒙𝟐 𝒚
10. Simplify: 𝒙𝒚𝟐 −𝒙𝒚
The highest common factor (HCF) of each of the three terms comprising the numerator and denominator
is xy. Dividing each term by xy gives:
𝒙𝟐 𝒚
𝒙𝟐 𝒚 𝒙𝒚 𝒙
= 𝒙 𝒙𝒚 = 𝒚−𝟏
𝒙𝒚𝟐 −𝒙𝒚 −
𝒙𝒚 𝒙𝒚
11. Simplify:
𝟑 𝟏
(𝒂𝟑 √𝒃√𝒄𝟓 )(√𝒂√𝒃𝒄𝟑 ) And evaluate when 𝒂 = 𝟒 , 𝒃 = 𝟔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄 = 𝟏
Using the fourth law of indices, the expression can be written as:
𝟓 𝟏 𝟐
(𝒂𝟑 𝒃 𝟐 𝒄𝟐 ) (𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟑 𝒄𝟑 )
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Learning Outcome 3: Use trigonometry to solve practical work problems
2.2.8 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers applications of trigonometric rules, identities the calculation of area,
perimeter of shapes and solids .it also covers one to one relationships and calculation involving hyperbolic
functions and identities.
l
Hyperbolic function: This is a function of an angle that is defined for the hyperbola, not on the circle.
One to one function: A function said to be one to one if different elements in 𝒂 map different element in
𝒃.
𝒃
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽 = 𝒄
𝒂
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝜽 = 𝒄
𝒃
𝒕𝒂𝒏 =
𝒂
𝒂𝟐 + 𝒃𝟐 = 𝒄𝟐
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐
+ 𝒄𝟐 = 𝟏
𝒄𝟐
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝟐 𝜽 + 𝟏 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
li
Note:
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝜽 = 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
𝟏
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝜽 = 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽
𝟏
𝒔𝒆𝒄𝜽 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
𝒕𝒂𝒏𝜽 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
Dividing (𝒊) by
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽
𝟏 + 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
𝒕𝒂𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝟐 𝜽 − 𝟏
The double angle formula can then be given as 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝑨 = 𝑨 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝑨 + 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑨
From the above relationship, we derive the half angle formula; that is
𝑨
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 = 𝟐 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 (𝟐) − 𝟏
𝟏+𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 𝟏−𝑪𝑶𝑺𝒂
𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝑨⁄𝟐) = ±√ and 𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝑨⁄𝟐) = ±√
𝟐 𝟐
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Example
Solution
𝟐 𝟑 𝟐 𝟏
= √𝟐 . √𝟐 + √𝟐 . √𝟐
𝟐
= √𝟒 (√𝟑 + 𝟏)
𝑸𝑽
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑩 = 𝑪𝒐𝒔𝑨 = 𝑸𝑽 = 𝑪𝒐𝒔𝑨𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑩
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Similarly;
These functions are expressed as exponential functions and are generally expressed as hyperbolic sine or
hyperbolic cosine, where other relationships can be derived.
Hyperbolic identities are obtained from the hyperbolic trigonometric functions. i.e
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐡 𝒙 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙+𝒆−𝒙
𝟐
𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒉 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝟐
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉 𝒙 = 𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝟐 𝒙 − 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝟏
𝟏 − 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉𝟐 𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒕𝒉𝟐 𝒙 − 𝟏 = 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒉𝟐 𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡(−𝒙) = − 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝒙 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡(−𝒙)
Examples
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Solve the following equation in terms of a natural logarithm.
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉 𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
Solution
𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝟏𝟐𝟐𝒙 − 𝟖𝒆−𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
𝟔𝒆𝟒𝒙 − 𝟓𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒 = 𝟎
(𝟑𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒)(𝟐𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎
𝟒 𝟏
𝒆𝟐𝒙 = 𝟑 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝟐𝒙 = − 𝟐
𝟏 𝟒
𝒙 = 𝟐 𝓵𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒄𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝟐𝒙 > 𝟎
𝟑
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
Most of the properties are similar tom properties of trigonometric functions. For example; cosh function
is even while 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 function is odd. The only difference in properties is,
(𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙)𝟐 − (𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙)𝟐
Examples
Solution
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𝒆𝟓 −𝒆−𝟓
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟓 = 𝟐
= 𝟕𝟒. 𝟐. 𝟑 𝒕𝒐 𝟑 𝒅. 𝒑
= 𝟏. 𝟓𝟒𝟑
Given the value of x, one is able to calculate inverse of the hyperbolic functions
2.2.11 Learning Activities
1. Prove the following hyperbolic identities, use the definition of 𝑠𝑖𝑛ℎ𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑠ℎ𝑥 in terms of
exponential functions
d) cos ℎ2 𝑥 − sin ℎ2 𝑥 = 1
e) 1 − 𝑡𝑎𝑛ℎ2 𝑥 = 𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ2 𝑥
f) 𝑐𝑜𝑡ℎ2 𝑥 − 1 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ2 𝑥
2. On graph papers:
2.2.12 Self-Assessment
8) Solve the following equation in terms of a natural logarithm.
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝟐 𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
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𝒔𝒊𝒏𝑨+𝑺𝒊𝒏𝑩 𝑨+𝑩
11) Prove that: 𝑪𝒐𝒔 𝑨+𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑩 = 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝟐
𝟒𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉 𝟐 𝒙 + 𝟐𝟎 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
Solution
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𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝒆−𝟐𝒙
𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐡 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟐
𝟏𝟐𝟐𝒙 − 𝟖𝒆−𝟐𝒙 = 𝟏𝟎
𝟔𝒆𝟒𝒙 − 𝟓𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒 = 𝟎
(𝟑𝒆𝟐𝒙 − 𝟒)(𝟐𝒆𝟐𝒙 + 𝟏) = 𝟎
𝟒 𝟏
𝒆𝟐𝒙 = 𝟑 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝟐𝒙 = − 𝟐
𝟏 𝟒
𝒙 = 𝟐 𝓵𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒄𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝟐𝒙 > 𝟎
𝟑
𝒆𝒙 +𝒆−𝒙
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
𝒆𝒙 −𝒆−𝒙
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒉𝒙 = 𝟐
ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑒
𝑇𝑎𝑛 60° =
𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤
ℎ
𝑇𝑎𝑛 60° = 8√3
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Learning Outcome 4: Perform estimations, measurements and calculations of quantities
2.2.16 Introduction to the learning outcome
This topic covers the units of measurement and their symbols, conversion of units of measurement,
mensuration, measuring tools and equipment and performing measurements and estimations of quantities.
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There are seven base units in the SI system:
• the kilogram (kg), for mass
• the second (s), for time
• the kelvin (K), for temperature
• the ampere (A), for electric current
• the mole (mol), for the amount of a substance
• the candela (cd), for luminous intensity
• the meter (m), for distance
Table 4: SI Units
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Conversion of units of measurement
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The perimeter, P, is:
𝐏=𝐱+𝐱+𝐲+𝐲
𝐏 = 𝟐𝐱 + 𝟐𝐲
P=2(x+y)
𝐏=𝟕+𝟕+𝟒+𝟒
𝐏=𝟐⋅𝟕+𝟐⋅𝟒
𝐏 = 𝟐 ⋅ (𝟕 + 𝟒)
𝐏 = 𝟐 ⋅ 𝟏𝟏
𝐏 = 𝟐𝟐𝐦
Area
Area is the measurement of the surface of a shape. To find the area of a rectangle or a square you need to
multiply the length and the width of a rectangle or a square.
Area, A, is x times y.
𝑨=𝒙⋅𝒚
Examples:
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5
𝐀=𝐱⋅𝐲
𝐀=𝟓⋅𝟔
𝐀 = 𝟑𝟎𝐦𝟐
There are different units for perimeter and area. Perimeter has the same units as the length of the sides of
rectangle or square whereas the area's unit is squared.
The surface area of a figure is defined as the sum of the areas of the exposed sides of an object.
The volume of an object is the amount of three-dimensional space an object takes up. It can be thought
of as the number of cubes that are one unit by one unit by one unit that it takes to fill up an object.
𝐒𝐀 = 𝟐(𝐥𝐰 + 𝐥𝐡 + 𝐰𝐡)
Volume
Volume of a Solid with a Matching Base and Top
V=Ah
A = area of the base of the solid
h = height of the solid
Volume of a Rectangular Solid (specific type of solid with matching base and top)
V= 𝑙 × 𝑤 × ℎ
l = length of the base of the solid
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w = width of the base of the solid
h = height of the solid
Example:
2.7
4.2 3.8
Based on the way our box is sitting, we can say that the length of the base is 4.2 m; the width of the base
is 3.8 m; and the height of the solid is 2.7 m. Thus, we can quickly find the volume of the box to be:
𝐕 = 𝐥𝐰𝐡 = 𝟒. 𝟐 ×
𝟑. 𝟖 × 𝟐. 𝟕 = 𝟒𝟑. 𝟎𝟗𝟐𝒎𝟑
A cylinder
A cylinder is an object with straight sides and circular ends of the same size. The volume of a cylinder
can be found in the same way you find the volume of a solid with a matching base and top. The surface
area of a cylinder can be easily found when you realize that you have to find the area of the circular base
and top and add that to the area of the sides. If you slice the side of the cylinder in a straight line from top
to bottom and open it up, you will see that it makes a rectangle. The base of the rectangle is the
circumference of the circular base, and the height of the rectangle is the height of the cylinder.
Volume of a cylinder
V=Ah
SA=2(πr2)+2πrh
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h = the height of the cylinder
12 cm
10
cm
𝐒𝐀 = 𝟐(𝛑𝐫𝟐) + 𝟐𝛑𝐫𝐡
Vernier Caliper is a widely used linear measurement instrument with a least count of 0.02 mm. It is used
to measure linear dimensions like length, diameter and depth.
Micrometer
Steel scale is single piece linear measuring instrument. Steel scale indicates two units that are cm and
inches, cm division on one side and inches, on another side.
Measuring tape.
Ruler and Rule
Performing measurements and estimations of quantities
2.2.19 Learning Activities
1. In this particular activity, apples will be used to practice math skills of estimation and measurement of
the circumference of an apple.
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Materials you’ll need:
• An apple
• A ruler
• Scissors
• Thread
e) You begin by placing the apple in front of your students. Let them hold the apple to ascertain its
circumference. Encourage your students to cut the yarn to a length that they feel would properly
wrap around the apple. This will require estimation on their part.
f) Use multiple apples of varying sizes, and have students estimate the amount of string that they’ll
need for each measurement.
g) Use the ruler to measure the string.
h) After determining whether they’re too long or too short, have your students cut a second string to try
to get closer to the circumference of the apple.
2.2.20 Self-Assessment
4. A rectangular tray is 820 mm long and 400 mm wide. Find its area in: (a) 𝑚𝑚2 (b) 𝑚2 (c) 𝑐𝑚2
2. Calculate the areas of the following sectors of circles having:
(a) Radius 6 cm with angle subtended at center 50°
𝜃2
Area of sector of a circle= 360 (𝜋𝑟 2 )
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• Dice
• Computers with internet connection
• Tape measure
• Thread
• Mathematical set
2.2.22 References
Hoyland, A., Rausand, and M. (1994), System Reliability Theory: Models and Statistical Methods,
(New York).
O'Neil, P.V. (1995), Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 4th ed., PWS-Kent Pub. (Boston).
1𝑚2 = 10000𝑐𝑚2
3280
Hence: 3280𝑐𝑚2 = 10000 = 0.3280𝑚2
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3. A water tank is the shape of a rectangular prism having length 2 m, breadth 75 cm and height 50 cm.
Determine the capacity of the tank in (a) 𝑚3 (b) 𝑐𝑚3 (c) litres
Volume of rectangular prism= 𝑙 × 𝑏 × ℎ
Volume of tank = 2 × 0.75 × 0.5 = 0.75𝑚3
𝟏𝒎𝟑 = 𝟏𝟎𝟔 𝒄𝒎𝟑
𝟎.𝟕𝟓
𝟎. 𝟕𝟓𝒎𝟑 = = 𝟕𝟓𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎𝒄𝒎𝟑
𝟏𝟎𝟔
𝟏 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒓𝒆 = 𝟏𝟎𝟎𝟎𝒄𝒎𝟑
Hence:
750000
750000𝑐𝑚3 = = 750𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠
1000
4. Find the volume and total surface area of a cylinder of length 15 cm and diameter 8 cm
Volume of cylinder= 𝜋𝑟 2 ℎ
Since diameter= 8𝑐𝑚, then radius = 4𝑐𝑚
Hence:
𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 = 𝜋 × 42 × 15 = 754𝑐𝑚3
Total surface area = 2𝜋𝑟ℎ + 2𝜋𝑟 2 = 477.5𝑐𝑚2
Learning Outcome 5: Apply Matrices in work
2.2.24 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers: Matrix definition, types, matrix operations, compatibility and
determination of inverse of a matrix, solving simultaneous equations with two and three and application
of the matrices.
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20. Applications of matrices
𝒂 𝒃
E.g. given [ ] = 𝒂𝒅 − 𝒄𝒅
𝒄 𝒅
Inverse: The inverse of a matrix 𝑸−𝟏 is the matrix than when multiplied by the original matrix 𝑸 gives
the identity matrix. i.e. 𝑸 𝑸−𝟏 =𝑰.
Matrices
The numbers within a matrix are called an array and the coefficients forming the array are called the
elements of the matrix. The number of rows in a matrix is usually specified by m and the number of
𝟐 𝟑 𝟔
columns by n and a matrix referred to as an ‘m by n’ matrix. Thus, ( ) is a ‘2 by 3’ matrix?
𝟒 𝟓 𝟕
Type of matrix
The numbers within a matrix are called an array and the coefficients forming the array are called the
elements of the matrix. The number of rows in a matrix is usually specified by m and the number of
columns by n and a matrix referred to as an ‘m by n’ matrix.
Matrix Operations
In describing the matrix, the number of rows the number of rows is stated first and the number of columns
second. i.e.
6 3
(2 4) is a matrix of order of 3× 2
5 1
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Compatibility
Addition
If A is a matrix and B is another matrix, then (A_B) is a single matrix formed by subtracting the
elements of B from the corresponding elements of A.
Problem 2. Subtract
−𝟑 𝟎 𝟐 −𝟏
( )− ( )
𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒
To find matrix A minus matrix B, the elements of B are taken from the corresponding elements of A.
Thus:
−𝟑 𝟎 𝟐 −𝟏
( )− ( )
𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒
−𝟑 − 𝟐 𝟎 − −𝟏
( )
𝟕 − −𝟕 −𝟒 − 𝟒
−𝟓 𝟏
( )
𝟏𝟒 −𝟖
Multiplication
When a matrix is multiplied by a number, called scalar multiplication, a single matrix results in which
each element of the original matrix has been multiplied by the number.
Problem 4.
−𝟑 𝟎 −𝟐 −𝟏 −𝟏 𝟎
If A =( ), B = ( ) and C = ( )
−𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟕 𝟒 −𝟐 −𝟒
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Find
2A – 3B + 4C
For scalar multiplication, each element is multiplied by the scalar quantity, hence
−𝟑 𝟎 −𝟔 𝟎
2A = 2 ( )=( )
−𝟕 −𝟒 −𝟏𝟒 −𝟖
−𝟐 −𝟏 −𝟔 −𝟑
3B = 3( )=( )
−𝟕 𝟒 −𝟐𝟏 𝟏𝟐
−𝟏 𝟎 −𝟒 𝟎
4C = 4 ( )=( )
−𝟐 −𝟒 −𝟖 −𝟏𝟔
Hence 2A - 3B + 4C
−𝟔 𝟎 −𝟔 −𝟑 −𝟒 𝟎
( )− ( )+ ( )
−𝟏𝟒 −𝟖 −𝟐𝟏 𝟏𝟐 −𝟖 −𝟏𝟔
When a matrix A is multiplied by another matrix B, a single matrix results in which elements are
obtained from the sum of the products of the corresponding rows of A and the corresponding columns of
B. Two matrices A and B may be multiplied together, provided the number of elements in the rows of
matrix A are equal to the number of elements in the columns of matrix B. In general terms, when
multiplying a matrix of dimensions (m by n) by a matrix of dimensions (n by r), the resulting matrix has
dimensions (m by r). Thus a 2 by 3 matrix multiplied by a 3 by 1 matrix gives a matrix of dimensions 2
by 1.
−𝟐 𝟑 −𝟓 𝟕
Problem 5. If A = ( )B=( )
𝟏 −𝟒 −𝟑 𝟒
Find A × B.
𝑪 𝑪𝟏𝟐
Let A × B = C where C = ( 𝟏𝟏 )
𝑪𝟐𝟏 𝑪𝟐𝟐
C11 is the sum of the products of the first row elements of A and the first column elements of B taken
one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟏𝟏 = (−𝟐 × (−𝟓)) + (𝟑 × (−𝟑)) = −𝟏𝟗
𝑪𝟏𝟐 is the sum of the products of the first row elements of A and the second column elements of B,
taken one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟏𝟐 = (𝟐 × 𝟕) + (𝟑 × 𝟒) = 𝟐𝟔
C21 is the sum of the products of the second row elements of A and the first column elements of B,
taken one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟐𝟏 = (𝟏 × −𝟓) + (−𝟒 × −𝟑) = 𝟕
Finally, C22 is the sum of the products of the second row elements of A and the second column
elements of B, taken one at a time, i.e. 𝑪𝟐𝟐 = (𝟏 × 𝟕) + (−𝟒 × 𝟒) = −𝟗
−𝟏𝟗 𝟐𝟔
Thus, A × B = ( )
𝟕 −𝟗
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Determination of inverse of a matrix
𝟐
− 𝒄 𝟎 𝟏 𝟎
( 𝟑 )= ( )
𝟎 −𝟐𝒅 𝟎 𝟏
𝟐 𝟑 𝟏
Showing that 𝟑 𝒄 = 𝟏, 𝒄 = 𝒂𝒏𝒅 − 𝟐𝒅 = 𝟏 𝒊. 𝒆. 𝒅 = − 𝟐
𝟐
𝟒
Since 𝒃 = −𝟐𝒅 , 𝒃 = 𝟏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂 = − 𝟑 𝒄 , 𝒂 = −𝟐
lxxii
𝟏 𝟐 𝒂 𝒃 −𝟐 𝟏
Thus the inverse of matrix ( ) is ( ) that is ( 𝟑 − 𝟐)
𝟏
𝟑 𝟒 𝒄 𝒅 𝟐
The procedure for solving linear simultaneous equations in two unknowns using matrices is:
(i) Write the equations in the form 𝒂𝟏 𝒙 + 𝒃𝟏 𝒚 = 𝒄𝟏 , 𝒂𝟐 𝒙 + 𝒃𝟐 𝒚 = 𝒄𝟐
𝒂𝟏 𝒃𝟏 𝒙 𝒄𝟏
(ii) Write the matrix equation corresponding to these equations, i.e. ( ) × (𝒚) = (𝒄 )
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐 𝟐
𝑎1 𝑏1 1 𝑏 −𝑏1
(iii) Determine the inverse matrix of ( ) i.e. ( 2 )
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑎1 𝑏2 − 𝑏1 𝑎2 −𝑎2 𝑎1
(iv) Multiply each side of (ii) by the inverse matrix
(v) Solve for x and y by equating corresponding elements.
The procedure for solving linear simultaneous equations in three unknowns using matrices is:
(ii) Write the equations in the form
𝑎1 𝑥 + 𝑏1 𝑦 + 𝑐1 𝑧 = 𝑑1
𝑎2 𝑥 + 𝑏2 𝑦 + 𝑐2 𝑧 = 𝑑2
𝑎3 𝑥 + 𝑏3 𝑦 + 𝑐3 𝑧 = 𝑑3
(ii) Write the matrix equation corresponding to these equations, i.e.
𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1 𝑥 𝑑1
(𝑎 2 𝑏2 𝑐2 ) × (𝑦) = (𝑑2 )
𝑎3 𝑏3 𝑐3 𝑧 𝑑3
(iii) Determine the inverse matrix of
𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1
𝑎
( 2 𝑏2 𝑐2 )
𝑎3 𝑏3 𝑐3
(iv) Multiply each side of (ii) by the inverse matrix
(v) Solve for x, y and z by equating the corresponding elements.
Applications of Matrices
• Cryptography
2.2.28 Self-Assessment
1. Add the matrices
4 −2 −3 5
( )+( )
−1 3 7 6
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5. Subtract
3 1 −4 2 7 −5
(4 3 1 ) − (−2 1 0 )
1 4 −3 6 3 4
2 3 2 3
4. If 𝐴 = ( ) and 𝐵 = ( ), show that 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
1 0 0 1
Panju, M(2011) Iterative methods for computing eigen values and eigen vectors ar.xiv 11051185
Searle. S.R., & Khun, A.I. (2017) matrix algebra useful for statistics. John wiley & sons.
4 −2 −3 5 4 + (−3) −2 + 5 1 −3
( )+( )= =( )
−1 3 7 6 −1 + 7 3+6 6 9
2. Subtract
3 1 −4 2 7 −5 3−2 1 − 7 −4 − (−5) 1 −6 1
(4 3 1 ) − ( −2 1 0 ) = (4 − (−2) 3 − 1 1−0 ) = ( 6 2 1)
1 4 −3 6 3 4 1−6 4−3 −3 − 4 −5 1 −7
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3 −2
| | = (3 × 4) − (−2 × 7) = 26
7 4
2 3 2 3
4. If 𝐴 = ( ) and 𝐵 = ( ), show that 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
1 0 0 1
4 9
=( )
2 3
7 6
=( )
1 0
Therefore 𝐴 × 𝐵 ≠ 𝐵 × 𝐴
Meaning of vector
A vector is a quantity having both magnitude and direction such as force, velocity etc. A vector is also
defined as a tensor of order one. A scalar has only magnitude and is completely characterized by one
number.
It is a tensor of order zero and temperature is an example of a scalar. A second order tensor, in a three-
dimensional space, is represented by nine numbers (components).
Representations of vectors
iii. The length of the line denotes the magnitude of the quantity according to the stated vector scale
iv. The direction of the line denotes the direction in which the vector quantity acts. The sense of the
direction is indicated by an arrowhead.
̅̅̅̅ or a.
The vector quantity AB is referred to as 𝐴𝐵
Operations of vectors
⃗ = (𝑐, 𝑑)
I.e. let 𝑃⃗ = (𝑎, 𝑏) and 𝑄
Then 𝑝 + 𝑞 = (𝑎 + 𝑐, 𝑏 + 𝑑)
=(𝑟1 − 𝑠1 , 𝑟2 − 𝑠2 )
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Example: Find
⃗)
(𝑃⃗ + 𝑄 ⃗)
B) (𝑃⃗ − 𝑄 ⃗ = (6, −1)
Given 𝑃⃗ = (4, 5) And 𝑄
Solution
⃗ = (𝑝1 + 𝑞1 , 𝑝2 + 𝑞2 )
𝑃⃗ + 𝑄
= (4 + 6, 5 + −1)
= (10, 4)
⃗ = (𝑝1 − 𝑞1 , 𝑝2 − 𝑞2 )
ii) 𝑃⃗ - 𝑄
= (4 − 6, 5 − (−1))
= (−2, 6)
OR
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
times −𝑄
= (−6, 1)
⃗ = (4 − 6,
Hence 𝑃⃗ + 𝑄 5 + 1) = (−2 , 6)
Addition
̅̅̅̅ + 𝐵𝐶
𝐴𝐵 ̅̅̅̅̅ = 𝐴𝐶
̅̅̅̅
𝑎+𝑏 =𝑐
Example:
A force of 40N is acting in the direction due east represented by p and a force of 30N is acting in the
direction due south represented as q, find the magnitude (r) of the vector of the two forces.
lxxviii
𝑟 2 = 𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 = √(𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 ) = √(402 + 302 )=50
In the concept of two-dimensions, we can use the Cartesian planes to draw our vectors
𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 B
Or (𝐴, 𝐵)
1 2 3 4 5 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠
Vector P is a 2-dimensional vector drawn with 3 units on the x-axis and 3 units on the y-axis.
The magnitude of vector P is simply the length of vector P which we can calculate using the basic
Pythagoras theorem i.e. we can denote the vector components as 𝑁𝐵 = 3 and AN = 3
A N
Direction of a vector normally we use degrees or radians from the horizontal in an anticlockwise
direction to describe direction of a vector
B
BN - Adjacent side
A
P 𝑃𝑦
N =3 ∅ NB – Opposite side to
angle ∅
PX= 3
lxxix
We first form a right-angled triangle by joining the ends of the vector then apply simple trigonometry.
3 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒
So, we have: Tan𝜃 =3 (𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡) = 1
z - Axis P (2,3,4)
x - Axis
0
Just like in
y - two
Axis dimensional we can also denote three dimensional vectors using the standard unit
vectors i, j, k, i=(1, 0, 0) j=(0, 1, 0), k=(0, 0, 1) an then express the vector as sum of scalar multiples
of these units vectors i.e. P=(P1 P2 P3)= P1i + P2j+ P3k
I.e. 𝑝1 = 𝑃. 𝐼 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛿
lxxx
𝑝2 = 𝑃. 𝑗 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛽
𝑝3 = 𝑃. 𝑘 = 1 × 1 × 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛾
Determination of angles
The direction of a vector in three directions is determined in angles which the vector makes with the three
axes of reference.
Let ̅̅̅̅
𝑂𝑃 = 𝑟 = 𝑎𝑖 + 𝑏𝑗 + 𝑐𝑘
𝑎
Then; 𝑟 = 𝑜𝑠𝛼 ∴ 𝑎 = 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼
𝑏
= 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽 ∴ 𝑏 = 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛽
𝑟
Also 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 = 𝑟 2
If both 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are non-zero and yet 𝑎 . 𝑏⃗ = 0, then this implies that 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are perpendicular to each
other. The angle between two non-zero vectors is given by;
⃗
𝐴.𝐵
Cos 𝜃 = |𝐴||𝐵⃗|
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⃗
𝐴.𝐵
Or simply 𝜃= cos −1 |𝐴||𝐵⃗|
Example
𝑝 = 4i -3j 𝑞 = 2i + j
Solution
𝑝 . 𝑞 = (4 × 2) + (−3 × 1)
= 8-3 = 5
𝑝 = (8, 0, 3) 𝑞 = (3, 2, 7)
Solution
𝑝. 𝑞 = (8 × 3) + (0 × 2) + (3 × 7)
= 6 + 0 + 21
= 27
𝑝. 𝑞 = (3 × 0) + (−4 × 5) + (−1 × 2)
= 0+ -20-2
= −22
lxxxii
|𝑞 | = √02 + 52 + 22 = √29
⃗
𝑃⃗ .𝑄 −22
Cos 𝜃 = |𝑃⃗||𝑄⃗| = =-0.8011927 =
√26 √29
Position of vectors
Definition: A position vector is a vector that starts from the origin i.e. its origin is (0, 0, 0)
P (3,6)
8,5
Example 1
⃗ is (5) and the position vector and the position vector of 𝑅⃗ (−3) is
The position vector of 𝑄 4 6
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
lxxxiii
Solution
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑄𝑂
𝑄𝑅 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + 𝑂𝑅
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = - 𝑂𝑄
NB: 𝑄𝑂 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (opposite direction)
-(54) + (−3
6
) = (−8
2
)
Generally, ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 = -a + b or simply b-a since from A to B, you must first move from A to the origin hence (-
a) then from the origin to B.
𝑂𝐵
Cos𝜃 = 𝑂𝐴
lxxxiv
OB = 𝑃⃗ Cos𝜃 𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡
Recall Cosine = 𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
But OB = Px
𝐴𝐵 𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒
Sin𝜃= 𝑂𝐵 [𝑆𝑖𝑛𝜃 = ]
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
Then, have all students hang their graphs on a classroom wall, numbering each graph. Ask students to
walk along the wall with their notebooks and notate the horizontal and vertical components of each of
their classmates' vectors.
Once you have discussed their answers, ask each partnership to take their own graph and use colors and
arrows to show how the horizontal and vertical components of their own vectors are determined.
2. Activity 2
To understand the principles of adding vectors by the graphical method and of adding vectors by
component addition.
Two or more vectors can be added together to determine a vector sum or resultant. Two methods of
adding vectors are the graphical or head-to-tail method and the trigonometric or component addition
method. For each problem, vectors A, B and C are shown.
vi. Sketch the head-to-tail addition of 𝐹1 , 𝐹2 , 𝐹3 𝑛𝑑 𝐹4 on the empty grid; label each vector.
lxxxv
vii. Draw and label the resultant (R).
viii. Record the magnitude and direction of each component; use a + to indicate East or North; use a –
to indicate a West or South.
ix. Sum the components to determine the components of the resultant.
x. Use the Pythagorean theorem and SOH CAH TOA to determine the magnitude and direction of
R
Magnitude of R =
Direction of R =
2.2.36 Self-Assessment
1. Calculate the resultant force of the two forces:
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
3. Use a graphical method to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant of the three
velocities
lxxxvi
2.2.37 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
• Calculator
• Ruler
• Black/white board
• Chalk/ board markers (Assorted)
2.2.38 References
Pramod S. Joag. (2016). An introduction to vectors, vector operators and vector analysis. Delhi:
Cambridge University Press.
Ray M. Bowen & C.C. Wang (2008). Introduction to vectors and tensors: Mineola: Dover Publications.
Richard E. Johnson (2010). Vector Algebra Meerut: Krishna Prakashan Media (P) Ltd.
lxxxvii
The direction of the resultant of vector addition
2.828
= 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( ) = 16.05°
9.828
⃗ is (5) and the position vector and the position vector of 𝑅⃗ (−3) is
8. The position vector of 𝑄 4 6
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Find the vector 𝑄𝑅
Solution
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑄𝑂
𝑄𝑅 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + 𝑂𝑅
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = - 𝑂𝑄
NB: 𝑄𝑂 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (opposite direction)
-(54) + (−3
6
) = (−8
2
)
3. Use a graphical method to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant of the three
velocities
lxxxviii
Learning Outcome 7: Collect, Organize and Interpret Statistical Data
2.2.40 Introduction to the learning outcome
This learning outcome covers obtainment of mean, median, mode and standard deviation from given data,
performance of calculations based on laws of probability, performance of calculation involving probability
distributions, mathematical expectation sampling distributions and application of sampling distribution
methods in data analysis.
lxxxix
d) Importance of sampling
e) Errors in sampling
f) Types of sampling and their limitations
10. Diagrammatic and graphical presentation of data e.g.
f) Histograms
g) Frequency polygons
h) Bar charts
i) Pie charts
j) Cumulative frequency curves
11. Measures of central tendency
c) Measures
d) Properties
12. Calculation and interpretation of mean, mode and median, variance and standard deviation
xc
When the number of members in a set is small, say ten or less, the data can be represented
diagrammatically without further analysis, by means of pictograms, bar charts, percentage components
bar charts or pie diagrams.
For sets having more than ten members, those members having similar values are grouped together in
classes to form a frequency distribution. To assist in accurately counting members in the various classes,
a tally diagram is used.
A frequency distribution is merely a table showing classes and their corresponding frequencies.
The new set of values obtained by forming a frequency distribution is called grouped data.
Data collection
We can use this example to define a number of terms, consider the class labelled 7.1 – 7.3
The class values stated in the table are the lower and upper limits of the class and their difference gives
the class width.
The class boundaries are 0.05 below the lower class limit and 0.05 above the upper class limit.
The lower class boundary is 7.1 - 0.05 = 7.05
The upper class boundary is 7.3 + 0.05 = 7.35
The class interval is the difference between the upper and lower class boundaries.
Class interval = upper class boundary – lower class boundary
= 7.35 – 7.05 = 0.30
Where the classes are regular, the class interval can also be found by subtracting any lower class limit
from the lower class limit of the following class.
The central value (mid value) of the class is the average of the upper and lower class boundaries.
xci
Sampling
𝑥−µ
𝑍=
𝛼
𝑋 = 𝑟𝑎𝑤 𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑒
µ = 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛
𝛼 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑑𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
A Z found on the both tables should be used on the table provided to known the percentile and therefore
compare. Note; if it is a negative then a table for negative values is used.
Sampling distribution
It is also known as probability distribution and the standard deviation of this topic is known as standard
error. Sampling distribution mean is equal to the mean of the population.
µ𝑥 =µ
SE Standard error
𝜕 =Standard deviation
𝜇=Size of population
xcii
n= size of sample
If 𝑓𝑝𝑐 = 1 from factor√𝑁 − 𝑛)/𝑁 − 1), therefore standard arror formula can be approximated by
√(x = 𝛼)/√𝑛
Distribution
It is a type of distribution similar with the normal distribution curve but with a bit shorter and fatter tail.
Therefore distribution is used because small size is small.
𝑥−µ
𝑡= 𝑠
( )
√𝑛
Where,
Estimation
This is the process of identifying a value by approximating due to a certain purpose. It can be done by
rounding off to the nearest whole number.
• Chi-squared distribution
xciii
• Poisson distribution
Histograms
Frequency histogram
iii. The centre of the base indicates the central value of the class
iv. The area of the rectangle represents the class frequency
If the class intervals are regular, the frequency is then denoted by the height of the rectangle.
Frequency Polygon
Another method of presenting grouped data diagrammatically is by using a frequency polygon, which
is the graph produced by plotting frequency against class mid-point values and joining the coordinates
with straight lines.
xciv
Figure 37: Frequency Polygon
A cumulative frequency distribution is a table showing the cumulative frequency for each value of upper
class boundary. The cumulative frequency for a particular value of upper class boundary is obtained by
adding the frequency of the class to the sum of the previous frequencies.
The curve obtained by joining the co-ordinates of cumulative frequency (vertically) against upper class
boundary (horizontally) is called an ogive or a cumulative frequency distribution curve
A single value, which is representative of a set of values, may be used to give an indication of the
general size of the members in a set, the word ‘average’ often being used to indicate the single value.
The statistical term used for ‘average’ is the arithmetic mean or just the mean.
Other measures of central tendency may be used and these include the median and the modal values.
Obtainment of mean, median, mode and standard deviation from given data
A set is a group of data and an individual value within the set is called a member of the set. Some
members selected at random from a population are called a sample.
Mean: It is also known as average therefore it is addition of the number divided by the number of the
numbers.
∑ 𝑜𝑓 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 =
𝑛𝑜 𝑜𝑓 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
xcv
Median: This is the number in the middle after being arranged from the lowest to the highest number; if
they are two, find the mean.
Mode: This is the number which is the most repeated in a series.
Variance: This is the mean of the squared differences of the number from the mean.
𝑉𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = ∑(𝑥1− µ)2 /𝑛
Standard deviation: This is the amount of variation of a set of numbers known as square root variance.
Example:
Determine the mean, median and mode for the set:
{2, 3, 7, 5, 5, 13, 1, 7, 4, 8, 3, 4, 3}
Thus, mean value,
2+3+7+5+5+13+1+7+4+8+3+4+3 65
𝑥̅ = = 13= 5
13
Median
To obtain the median value the set is ranked, that is, placed in ascending order of magnitude, and since
the set contains an odd number of members the value of the middle member is the median value.
Ranking the set gives: [1,2,3,3,3,4,4,5,5,7,7,8,13]
{1, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7, 8, 13}
The middle term is the seventh member, i.e. 4, thus the median value is 4.
Mode
The modal value is the value of the most commonly occurring member and is 3, which occurs three
times, all other members on occurring once or twice.
2.2.43 Learning Activities
1. As the teacher ask your students to collect 25 bottle tops and start making a histogram of their dates
they forward the bottle tops. Each student has collected 25 bottle tops over the past few days. The
students come to place the pennies in groups above a number line on the floor, according to the years in
which the pennies were minted.
2.2.44 Self-Assessment
1. The data given below refer to the gain of each of a batch of 40 transistors, expressed correct to the
nearest whole number.
xcvi
Form a frequency distribution for these data having seven classes.
81 83 87 74 76 89 82 84
86 76 77 71 86 85 87 88
84 81 80 81 73 89 82 79
81 79 78 80 85 77 84 78
83 79 80 83 82 79 80 77
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
xcvii
Form a frequency distribution for these data having seven classes.
81 83 87 74 76 89 82 84
86 76 77 71 86 85 87 88
84 81 80 81 73 89 82 79
81 79 78 80 85 77 84 78
83 79 80 83 82 79 80 77
The value obtained by taking the value of the smallest member from that of the largest member.
Inspection of the set of data shows that, range=89−71=18
f) Construct a tally diagram
This is obtained by listing the classes in the left-hand column, and then inspecting each of the 40
members of the set in turn and allocating them to the appropriate classes by putting ‘1s’ in the
appropriate rows. Every fifth ‘1’ allocated to the particular row is shown as an oblique line crossing the
four previous ‘1s’, to help with final counting.
xcviii
Figure 39: Frequency Distribution
11. The frequency distribution for the value of resistance in ohms of 48resistors is as shown.
Determine the mean value of resistance.
20.5–20.9: 3, 21.0–21.4: 10, 21.5–21.9: 11,
22.0–22.4: 13, 22.5–22.9: 9, 23.0–23.4: 2
The class mid-point/frequency values are:
20.7 - 3, 21.2 - 10, 21.7 - 11, 22.2 - 13, 22.7 - 9 and 23.2 - 2
For grouped data, the mean value is given by:
∑(𝑓𝑥) (20.7 × 3) + (21.2 × 10) + (21.7 × 11) + (22.2 × 13) + (22.7 × 9) + (23.2 × 2)
𝑥̅ = =
∑𝑓 48
= 21.9
12. Determine the standard deviation from the mean of the set of numbers: (5, 6, 8, 4, 10, 3) correct
to 4 significant figures.
∑𝑥 5+6+8+4+10+3
The arithmetic mean 𝑥̅ = = =6
𝑛 6
∑(𝑥−𝑥̅ )2
Standard deviation 𝜎 = √ 𝑛
The (𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 values are (5 − 6)2 ,(6 − 6)2 , (8 − 6)2 , (4 − 6)2 , (10 − 6)2 , (3 − 6)2
xcix
The sum of the (𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 values, i.e.
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 = 1 + 0 + 4 + 4 + 16 + 9 = 34
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2 34
= = = 5.6
𝑛 6
Since, there are 6 members in the set.
∑(𝑥 − 𝑥̅ )2
𝜎=√ = √5.6 = 2.38
𝑛
c
2.2.50 Information Sheet
2.2.50.2 Definition of terms
Probability
Probability of something happening is the likelihood or chance of it happening. Values of probability lie
between 0 and 1, where 0 represents an absolute impossibility and 1 represents an absolute certainty.
The probability of an event happening usually lies somewhere between these two extreme values and is
expressed either as a proper or decimal fraction.
If p is the probability of an event happening and q is the probability of the same event not happening,
then the total probability is p + q and is equal to unity, since it is an absolute certainty that the event
either does or does not occur, i.e. p + q = 1
The expectation, E, of an event happening is defined in general terms as the product of the probability p
of an event happening and the number of attempts made, n, i.e. E = pn.
Laws of probability
ci
The addition law of probability
The addition law of probability is recognized by the word ‘or’ joining the probabilities. If 𝑃𝐴 is the
probability of event A happening and 𝑃𝐵 is the probability of event B happening, the probability of
event A or event B happening is given by 𝑃𝐴 + 𝑃𝐵 (provided events A and B are mutually exclusive, i.e.
A and B are events which cannot occur together).
Similarly, the probability of events A or B or C or . . . N happening is given by
𝑷𝑨 + 𝑷𝑩 + 𝑷𝑪 … … … … 𝑷𝑵
The multiplication law of probability
The multiplication law of probability is recognized by the word ‘and’ joining the probabilities. If 𝑃𝐴 is
the probability of event A happening and 𝑃𝐵 is the probability of event B happening, the probability of
event A and event B happening is given by𝑃𝐴 × 𝑃𝐵 .
Similarly, the probability of events A and B and C and . . . N happening is given by:
𝑃𝐴 × 𝑃𝐵 × 𝑃𝐶 … … … … . 𝑃𝑁
Not Mutually Exclusive Events
Consider the case where two events A and B are not mutually exclusive. The probability of that event
that either A or B or both occur is given as
𝑃(𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝑃(𝐴) + 𝑃(𝐵) − 𝑃(𝐴 ∩ 𝐵)
Permutations
If n different objects are available, they can be arranged in different orders of selection. Each different
ordered arrangement is called a permutation.
For example, permutations of the three letters X, Y and Z taken together are:
XYZ, XZY, YXZ, YZX, ZXY and ZYX
This can be expressed as 3𝑃3 =6, the upper 3 denoting the number of items from which the arrangements
are made, and the lower 3 indicating the number of items used in each arrangement.
𝑛!
In general, n𝑃𝑟 = 𝑛(𝑛 − 1)(𝑛 − 2) … … … … (𝑛 − 𝑟 + 1) or = (𝑛−𝑟)!
Combinations
Using three letters A, B, C we now make selections without regard to the order of the letters in each
group i.e. AB is now the same as BA, etc. Each group is called a combination and n𝑐𝑟 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 n is the
total number of items and r is the number in each selection, gives the number of possible combinations.
Note that AB and BA are different permutations, but are not different combinations.
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Tree Diagram
A probability tree diagram shows all the possible events. The first event is represented by a dot. From
the dot, branches are drawn to represent all possible outcomes of the event. The probability of each
outcome is written on its branch.
Venn Diagram
A set is a collection of things. A Venn diagram uses overlapping circles or other shapes to illustrate the
logical relationships between two or more sets of items. Often, they serve to graphically organize things,
highlighting how the items are similar and different.
Each friend is an "element" (or "member") of the set. It is normal to use lowercase letters for them.
Now let's say that alex, casey, drew and hunter play Soccer:
(It says the Set "Soccer" is made up of the elements alex, casey, drew and hunter.)
You can now list your friends that play Soccer OR Tennis.
Not everyone is in that set ... only your friends that play Soccer or Tennis (or both).
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"Intersection" is when you must be in BOTH sets.
In our case that means they play both Soccer AND Tennis ... which is casey and drew.
The special symbol for Intersection is an upside down "U" like this: ∩
For example, taking Soccer and subtracting Tennis means people that play Soccer but NOT Tennis ...
which is alex and hunter.
iii. What is the probability that your friend will throw a rock?
iv. What is the probability that your friend will not throw a paper?
Now get a paper and pen and play 20 times and record your data.
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2.2.52 Self-Assessment
4. Determine the probabilities of selecting at random (a) a man, and (b) a woman from a crowd
containing 20 men and 33 women.
5. Find the expectation of obtaining a 4 upwards with 3 throws of a fair dice.
1
6. The probability of a component failing in one year due to excessive temperature is20, due to
1 1
excessive vibration is 25 and due to excessive humidity is50. Determine the probabilities that
during a one-year period component: (a) fails due to excessive temperature and excessive
vibration, (b) fails due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity, and (c) will not fail because
of both excessive temperature and excessive humidity.
2.2.53 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
• Scientific Calculators
• Rulers, pencils, erasers
• Charts with presentations of data
• Graph books
• Computers with an internet connection
2.2.54 References
K. A. Stroud, (2001). Engineering Mathematics, 5th Ed. Industrial Press Inc, New York.
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
20 20
𝑃= = = 0.3774
20 + 33 53
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛
b. The probability of selecting at random women, q, is given by the ratio= 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑑
33 33
𝑄= = = 0.6226
20 + 33 53
5. Find the expectation of obtaining 4 upwards with 3 throws of a fair dice.
cv
1
6. The probability of a component failing in one year due to excessive temperature is , due to
20
1 1
excessive vibration is 25 and due to excessive humidity is50. Determine the probabilities that during a
one-year period component: (a) fails due to excessive temperature and excessive vibration, (b) fails
due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity, and (c) will not fail because of both excessive
temperature and excessive humidity.
Solution
Let 𝑃𝐴 be the probability of failure due to excessive temperature, then
1 19
𝑃𝐴 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐴 =
20 20
̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐴 The probability of not failing.
Let 𝑃𝐵 be the probability of failure due to excessive vibration, then
1 24
𝑃𝐵 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐵 =
25 25
̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐵
Let 𝑃𝐵 be the probability of failure due to excessive humidity, then
1 49
𝑃𝐶 = ̅̅̅̅ =
𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑃𝐶
50 50
a. The probability of a component failing due to excessive temperature and excessive vibration is
given by:
1 1 1
𝑃𝐴 × 𝑃𝐵 = × = = 0.002
20 25 500
b. The probability of a component failing due to excessive vibration or excessive humidity is:
1 1 3
𝑃𝐵 + 𝑃𝐶 = + = = 0.06
25 50 50
c. The probability that a component will not fail due to excessive temperature and will not fail due to
excess humidity is:
19 49 931
̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐴 × ̅̅̅̅
𝑃𝐶 = × = = 0.931
20 50 1000
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Learning Outcome 9: Perform Commercial Calculation
2.2.56 Introduction to the learning outcome
The learning outcome covers: Product pricing, Average sales determination, Stock turnover, Calculation
of incomes, Profit and Loss calculations, Salaries,
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• Piece rate
• Commission
• Percentage
• Bonus
16. Exchange rates calculation
• Devaluation
• Revaluation
Cost price is the price a retailer paid for the product. And the profit margin is a percentage of the cost
price.
• Cost Price: The price a retailer paid for the product
• Profit Margin: A percentage of the cost price.
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8. Use the selling price formula to calculate the final price: Selling Price = Cost Price + Profit
Margin
Stock turnover
Inventory turnover is a ratio showing how many times a company has sold and replaced inventory
during a given period. A company can then divide the days in the period by the inventory turnover
formula to calculate the days it takes to sell the inventory on hand.
Inventory Turnover = Sales / Average Inventory
Where:
Average Inventory = (Beginning Inventory + Ending Inventory) / 2
Companies calculate inventory turnover by:
• Calculating the average inventory, which is done by dividing the sum of beginning inventory and
ending inventory by two.
• Dividing sales by average inventory.
Profit or Gain: If the selling price is more than the cost price, the difference between them is the profit
incurred.
Loss: If the selling price is less than the cost price, the difference between them is the loss incurred.
Marked price: This is the price marked as the selling price on an article, also known as the listed price.
Discount or Rebate: This is the reduction in price offered on the marked or listed price.
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Below is the list of some basic formulas used in solving questions on profit and loss:
Salaries
A salary is a form of payment from an employer to an employee, which may be specified in an
employment contract. It is contrasted with piece wages, where each job, hour, or other unit is paid
separately, rather than on a periodic basis.
Gross Pay
Gross income for an individual—also known as gross pay when it's on a paycheck—is the individual’s
total pay from his or her employer before taxes or other deductions. This includes income from all sources
and is not limited to income received in cash; it also includes property or services received. Gross annual
income is the amount of money a person earns in one year before taxes and includes income from all
sources.
Net Pay
Net pay refers to the amount an employee takes home, not the amount it costs to employ them.
Wages
• Time rate
• Flat rate
• Overtime
• Piece rate
• Commission
• Percentage
• Bonus
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The exchange rate is defined as the rate on the basis of which two countries involved in trade exchange
marketable items or commodities. It is basically the cost of exchanging one currency for another
currency.
Exchange rates fluctuate constantly throughout the week as currencies are actively traded. This pushes
the price up and down, similar to other assets such as gold or stocks. Therefore, the exchange rate can be
calculated as per the below-mentioned relationship: –
Devaluation
Devaluation is the deliberate downward adjustment of the value of a country's money relative to another
currency, group of currencies, or currency standard. Countries that have a fixed exchange rate or semi-
fixed exchange rate use this monetary policy tool. It is often confused with depreciation and is the
opposite of revaluation, which refers to the readjustment of a currency's exchange rate.
Given two exchange rates in terms of a Base Currency and a Quote Currency we can calculate
appreciation and depreciation between them using the percentage change calculation. Letting V1 be the
starting rate and V2 the final rate.
The percentage change of the Quote Currency relative to the Base Currency is
(𝑉1 − 𝑉2 )
%𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 = × 100
𝑉2
The percentage change of the Base Currency relative to the Quote Currency is
(𝑉2 − 𝑉1 )
%𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 = × 100
𝑉1
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• Revaluation
A revaluation is a calculated upward adjustment to a country's official exchange rate relative to a chosen
baseline. The baseline can include wage rates, the price of gold, or a foreign currency.
Materials:
• computer/internet
• W-2 form (pre-filled)
• 1040 tax form
Guiding Questions:
Procedures:
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Activity 2
In groups of 4, have the students buy 20 biro pens at wholesale price of KShs. 10 per pen, they will
spend a total cost of KShs. 2.50 per pen to advertise and on labor. If they made a total of profit of KShs.
120 from sale of the 20pens Using the template below let them fill the results.
Selling price?
2.2.60 Self-Assessment
6. The market oriented pricing, there are three pricing ways, outline them?
7. Hot Pie's Bakery Supply needs to calculate the selling price for its product line of bread
machines. The business purchased 20 bread machines for $3,000.
a. Calculate the cost price
b. The cost price for each bread machine is $150, and the business hopes to earn a 40% profit margin.
Calculate the selling price?
8. In a transaction, the profit percentage is 80% of the cost. If the cost further increases by 20% but
the selling price remains the same, how much is the decrease in profit percentage?
9. A man bought two bicycles for Rs. 2500 each. If he sells one at a profit of 5%, then how much
should he sell the other so that he makes a profit of 20% on the whole?
10. A trader wants to make an investment in the exchange-traded funds traded in US markets.
However, the trader lives in India and 1 INR corresponds to 0.014 USD. The trader has
INR 10,000 to invest in the exchange-traded funds traded in the offshore market.
Help the trader determine the value of INR investment in terms of US currency.
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• Computers with an internet connection
2.2.62 References
K. A. Stroud, (2001). Engineering Mathematics, 5th Ed. Industrial Press Inc, New York.
John Bird, (2003). Engineering Mathematics, Fourth Edition. Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK
• Price above market: Consciously pricing your product above the competition to brand yourself
as having a higher-quality or better-performing item
• Copy market: Selling your item at the same price as your competition to maximize profit while
staying competitive
• Price below market: Using data as a benchmark and consciously pricing a product below
competitors, to lure customers into your store over theirs
5. Hot Pie's Bakery Supply needs to calculate the selling price for its product line of bread
machines. The business purchased 20 bread machines for $3,000.
a. Calculate the cost price
$3,000
Cost price: = = $150
20
b. The cost price for each bread machine is $150, and the business hopes to earn a 40% profit margin.
Calculate the selling price?
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Selling Price = $210
6. In a transaction, the profit percentage is 80% of the cost. If the cost further increases by 20% but
the selling price remains the same, how much is the decrease in profit percentage?
Solution:
9. A man bought two bicycles for Rs. 2500 each. If he sells one at a profit of 5%, then how much
should he sell the other so that he makes a profit of 20% on the whole?
Solution:
Before we start, it’s important to note here that it is not 15% to be added to 5% to make it a total of 20%.
Hence, if he makes a profit of 35% on the second, it comes to a total of 20% profit on the whole.
10. A trader wants to make an investment in the exchange-traded funds traded in US markets.
However, the trader lives in India and 1 INR corresponds to 0.014 USD. The trader has
INR 10,000 to invest in the exchange-traded funds traded in the offshore market.
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Help the trader determine the value of INR investment in terms of US currency.
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CHAPTER 3 WORKSHOP TECHNOLOGY
All persons using workshops and stores should apply good housekeeping practices, wear appropriate
clothing and footwear, and use the workshop or store only for its intended purpose.
A tidy workplace makes it easier to spot and avoid hazards, and does not interfere with normal work
operations. Good housekeeping is fundamental to workshop safety management, and the time allocated
to a job must include cleaning up afterwards. This applies to both individual and shared areas.
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Personal items, food, drink or cigarettes are not to be taken into workshops and stores, unless a clean
work-free area has been set aside for this purpose. Where necessary, lockers should be provided and
used.
The store or workshop must be suited to the proposed task. The supervisor shall make the decision as to
what tasks are appropriate for each situation.
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serious limitation that it does not eliminate the hazard at the source and may result in
employees being exposed to the hazard if the equipment fails.
Any item of PPE imposes a barrier between the wearer/user and the working environment.
This can create additional strains on the wearer; impair their ability to carry out their work
and create significant levels of discomfort. Any of these can discourage wearers from using
PPE correctly, therefore placing them at risk of injury, ill-health or, under extreme
circumstances, death. Good ergonomic design can help to minimize these barriers and can
therefore help to ensure safe and healthy working conditions through the correct use of PPE.
This standard operating procedure incorporates the requirements for use of Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) for project staff, co-operators, volunteers, contractors, and those under the project’s
operational control.
PPE listed in this SOP shall be used to provide protection and safety necessary for those participating in
a project activity with PPE requirements. Additional information on the purpose and type of PPE may be
available through the SOP for that activity.
Roles and responsibilities
Projects need to tailor the Roles/Responsibilities based on their staffing level
Project Manager (PM) is responsible for the overall safety of the project staff and those participating in a
project activity and must provide the appropriate PPE for those activities.
Project Safety Officer (PSO) is responsible for issuing project PPE, for training project staff on the
proper use and care of the PPE, and to ensure compliance with this SOP.
Supervisor is responsible for ensuring project staff and others participating in a project activity are
properly wearing their issued PPE. After temporarily issuing the appropriate PPE to non‐project
personnel, train them on how to use the PPE and retrieve the PPE upon completion of the activity.
Project Staff is responsible for properly wearing their issued PPE for that activity. They must also
properly maintain their issued PPE and when needed request a new PPE to replace worn out or damaged
PPE. They will assist the Supervisor when non‐project people are participating in an activity requiring
specific PPE.
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Others participating in the activity must be trained in the proper use of the assigned PPE and wear it
properly when directed by project staff.
Training
The PSO or Supervisory staff will train project employees on the use and care of the PPE.
PPE selection
PPE shall be provided, used, and maintained wherever hazards exist (e.g., processing, environmental,
chemical, mechanical) or are encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the
function of any part of the body. Injury can occur though absorption, inhalation, or physical contact with
these hazards. The designated PPE person shall set a good example by donning PPE and following
Program policy. The following provides guidelines for hazard assessment and PPE selection.
Eye and face protection. Appropriate eye or face protection shall be worn if exposures to
potentially injurious hazards exist (e.g., flying particles, liquid chemicals, corrosives, chemical
gases, vapors, UV rays). All eyewear shall provide:
Foot hazards
1 OSHA requires that staff wear protective footwear if the potential for foot injuries exist, including
exposure to:
• electrical hazards
• slipping
• chemicals
• temperature extremes
2. Engineering and work-practice solutions shall be utilized, including wearing footwear correctly (fully
laced, etc.) to receive maximum protection. The Program shall prohibit the use of sandals or open shoes.
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Hand and body protection
1. Glove manufacturer specification charts provide guidance in selecting proper PPE. Appropriate
hand and body PPE shall be worn when potential hazards exist, including exposure to:
• cuts and punctures—severe cuts and lacerations, abrasions or punctures from tools,
machines or from handling sharp objects
Head protection Head protection (e.g., hard hat) shall be worn if potential for injury from
falling objects exist. All head protection shall:
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Be used according to manufacturer’s instructions
Not be altered in any way include bump caps as an appropriate alternative (if exposure to scalp injuries
exist)
Hearing protection Facility staff shall wear hearing protection when exposed to noise levels in excess
of 85 dB (A) for an eight-hour time-weighted average.
Respiratory protection Site specific ventilation or exhaust systems are effective engineering control
tools.
➢ Workshop rules
Before you can use equipment and machines or attempt practical work in a workshop you
must understand basic safety rules. These rules will help keep you and others safe in the
workshop.
1. Always listen carefully to the teacher and follow instructions.
2. Do not run in the workshop, you could ‘bump’ into another trainee and cause an
accident.
3. Know where the emergency stop buttons are positioned in the workshop. If you see an
accident at the other side of the workshop you can use the emergency stop button to turn
off all electrical power to machines.
4. Always wear an apron as it will protect your clothes and hold loose clothing such as ties
in place.
5. Wear good strong shoes. Training shoes are not suitable.
6. When attempting practical work all stools should be put away.
7. Bags should not be brought into a workshop as people can trip over them.
8. When learning how to use a machine, listen very carefully to all the instructions given
by the teacher. Ask questions, especially if you do not fully understand.
9. Do not use a machine if you have not been shown how to operate it safely by the teacher.
10. Always be patient, never rush in the workshop.
11. Always use a guard when working on a machine.
12. Keep hands away from moving/rotating machinery.
13. Use hand tools carefully, keeping both hands behind the cutting edge.
14. Report any damage to machines/equipment as this could cause an accident.
➢ Electrical hazards
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An electrical hazard is one of the most dangerous threats workers can face. It’s estimated almost five
percent of all workplace fatalities result from electrocution.
Electrical shock
An electric shock happens when an electric current passes through your body. This can burn both
internal and external tissue and cause organ damage.
• power lines
• lightning
• electric machinery
• household appliances
• electrical outlets
While shocks from household appliances are usually less severe, they can quickly become more serious
if a child chews on an electric cord our puts their mouth on an outlet.
Aside from the source of the shock, several other factors affect how serious an electric shock is,
including:
• voltage
• overall health
• type of current (an alternating current is often more harmful than a direct current because it
causes muscle spasms that make it harder to drop the source of electricity)
If you or someone else has been shocked, you may not need emergency treatment, but you should still
see a doctor as soon as possible. Internal damage from electric shocks is often hard to detect without a
thorough medical exam.
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Effects of electric shock
• loss of consciousness
• muscle spasms
• numbness or tingling
• breathing problems
• headache
• burns
• seizures
• irregular heartbeat
Electric shocks can also cause compartment syndrome. This happens when muscle damage causes your
limbs to swell. In turn, this can compress arteries, leading to serious health problems. Compartment
syndrome might not be noticeable immediately after the shock, so keep an eye on your arms and legs
following a shock.
➢ Electric Fire
➢ Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances.
Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. Never use an
appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like
floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.
• Classes of fire
There are 6 different classes of fire, and each should be attacked in a different way.
Class A (Solids)
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Class A fires are fires involving solids. This type of fire could be paper and cardboard, common in
offices and manufacturing. It could be furniture, or fixtures and fittings. It could even be the structure of
the building.
This is one of the most common types of fire because solids are the most common type of fuel and one
that is hard to eliminate. Good housekeeping should help to keep materials like packaging and waste
reduced, minimizing risks Water extinguisher is one of the most popular types of extinguishers used
class A fire. It can handle most fires involving solids.
Class B (Liquids)
Class B fires are fires involving liquids. Many of the fluids, liquids and chemicals used in workplaces
can be flammable or explosive. Like cleaning fluids, solvents, fuels, inks, adhesives and paints.
According to statistics, in 2010/11 flammable liquids accounted for only 2% of fires, but a massive 21%
of fatalities. These fires are rare but more deadly than other types of fire. So how can you protect
yourself?
Make sure you know what flammable liquids are used in your workplace, and carry out a Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health’ (COSHH) assessment Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
assessments are a legal requirement, for any hazardous substances. This about safe storage and use of
these substances, keep them in labeled containers and away from sources of ignition.
Should a class B fire ignite, foam or powder extinguishers are the best types of extinguishers to attack
this type of fire.
Give examples of foam extinguishers
Class C (Gases)
Class C fires are fires involving gases. This could be natural gas, Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or
other types of gases forming a flammable or explosive atmosphere.
Work with gas is dangerous, and increases fire risk. Keep stored gases in sealed containers in a safe
storage area, and ensure that gas work is carried out by competent persons.
While extinguishers can be used on class C gas fires, the only safe method to attack this type of fire is to
shut off the gas supply. The best type of extinguisher to put out the fire when the supply of gas is off is a
dry powder extinguisher
Class D (Metals)
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Metals are not often thought of as a combustible material, some types of metal can be, like sodium.
Metals are also good conductors, helping a fire spread. All metals will soften and melt at high
temperature, which can be a big problem when metal joists and columns are present in a fire as
structural elements.
Water can actually act as an accelerate on metal fires, so how would you tackle a class D fire? There are
dry powder extinguishers developed to tackle metal fires. The powder inside the extinguisher may vary
depending on the type of metal risk it is designed for. Small metal fires can sometimes be smothered
with dry earth or sand.
Electrical Fires
This is not strictly a class (class E) of fire, because electricity is more or a source of ignition than a fuel.
However, fires in live electrical equipment are an additional hazard. You don't want to be using water, or
any other conductor as that could be fatal.
Electrical fires are not given their own full class, as they can fall into any of the classifications. After all
it is not the electricity burning but surrounding material that has been set alight by the electric current.
To avoid electric fire;
Making sure electrical equipment and installations are installed correctly, and inspected and maintained,
will help to reduce the risk of this type of fire.
While you shouldn't use water to attack an electrical fire, you can use other types of fire extinguishers.
Like carbon dioxide, and dry powder in low voltage situations. Always turn off the power supply if you
can.
Class F (Cooking Fats & Oils)
Deep fat frying and spillages of flammable oils near to heat sources in kitchens can result in a class F
fire.
Never leave food or frying equipment unattended during use. The only type of fire
extinguisher approved for use on cooking oils and fats is the wet chemical extinguisher. For small class
F fires, you could also use a fire blanket.
➢ Causes of fire
A house can easily catch fire from the misuse of appliances and heating equipment to
smoking in bedrooms.
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However you can take measures to avoid fire in home and ensure the safety of your family.
Below are some of the most common causes of house fires, and some tips to take
precautions.
1. Cooking equipment
Pots and pans can overheat and cause a fire very easily if the person cooking gets distracted and leaves
cooking unattended. Always stay in the room, or ask someone to watch your food, when cooking on
hotplates.
2. Heating
Keep portable heaters at least one metre away from anything that could easily catch fire such as
furniture, curtains, laundry, clothes and even yourself. If you have a furnace, get it inspected once a year
to make sure it is working to safety standards.
3. Smoking in bedrooms
Bedrooms are best to be kept off limits for smoking. A cigarette that is not put out properly can cause a
flame, as the butt may stay a lit for a few hours. It could burst into flames if it came into contact with
flammable materials, such as furniture.
4. Electrical equipment
An electrical appliance, such as a toaster can start a fire if it is faulty or has a frayed cord. A power point
that is overloaded with double adapter plugs can cause a fire from an overuse of electricity. A power
point extension cord can also be a fire hazard if not used appropriately. Double check the appliances and
power points in your home.
5. Candles
Candles look and smell pretty, but if left unattended they can cause a room to easily burst into flames.
Keep candles away from any obviously flammable items such as books and tissue boxes. Always blow a
candle out before leaving a room.
6. Curious children
Kids can cause a fire out of curiosity, to see what would happen if they set fire to an object. Keep any
matches or lighters out of reach of children, to avoid any curiosity turned disaster. Install a smoke alarm
in your child’s room and practice a home escape plan with your children and family in case there was a
fire.
7. Faulty wiring
Homes with inadequate wiring can cause fires from electrical hazards. Some signs to see if you’ve bad
wiring are:
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1. Lights dim if you use another appliance;
2. For an appliance to work, you have to disconnect another;
3. Fuses blow or trip the circuit frequently.
4. Have a licensed electrician come and inspect you house, or contact your landlord if you have any of
the above occurrences.
8. Barbeques
Barbeques are great for an outdoor meal, but should always be used away from the home, tablecloths or
any plants and tree branches. Keep BBQs regularly maintained and cleaned with soapy water and clean
any removable parts. Check the gas bottle for any leaks before you use it each time.
9. Flammable liquids
If you have any flammable liquids in the home or garage such as petrol, kerosene or methylated spirits,
keep them away from heat sources and check the label before storing. Be careful when pouring these
liquids.
10. Lighting
Lamp shades and light fittings can build up heat if they are very close to light globes. Check around the
house to make sure. Lamp bases can become a hazard if they are able to be knocked over easily, and so
should be removed if they are. Check that down lights is insulated from wood panelling or ceiling
timbers.
The above tips are a good guide to avoiding a fire in your home. However it’s a good idea to protect
yourself with adequate home insurance cover to ensure you are covered in the unlikely event a fire were
to happen
If the three parts of the ‘fire triangle’ are kept in mind, extinguishing a small blaze should be a matter of
common sense. The principles of fire extinction state that a fire will be put out if one of the three
elements are removed, and this can be done using three different approaches, as detailed below.
Cooling
Removing the heat is one of the most effective methods of fire extinction available, which is why water
is a popular extinguishing material. The fire will go out so long as the heat generated by the fire is less
than that which is absorbed by the water.
Remember: water is not an appropriate extinguishing material to use on electrical fires, as well as those
caused by cooking oils/fats or other flammable liquids.
Starving
While cooling removes the heat/ignition element of the ‘fire triangle’, starving the blaze of its fuel
source approaches extinction from a different angle. A raging fire will burn itself out if it runs out of
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flammable materials, such as a bonfire out in the open that isn’t in contact with any other wood or dry
grass. Similarly, a gas fire will immediately extinguish if the gas supply is cut off – you only have to
look at a gas stove or Bunsen burner to see that.
Smothering
As the other key component present in the chemical reaction that causes combustion, removing oxygen
from the equation is the final way of extinguishing a fire. For example, smothering a frying pan blaze
with a fire blanket reduces the oxygen to below the 16% required to react, while covering a candle with
a glass will snuff it out in a vacuum.
Smothering is a technique that is mostly applicable to solid fuel fires, although some materials may
contain enough oxygen within their own chemical makeup to keep the blaze burning.
➢ First Aid
If the person has been injured by an electrical shock, Electrical shocks always need emergency medical
attention even if the person seems to be fine afterward.
The following methods/procedures may be used to rescue the affected person
⚫ Unplug an appliance if plug is undamaged or shut off power via circuit breaker, fuse box, or outside
switch.
If you can't turn off power:
⚫ Stand on something dry and non-conductive, such as dry newspapers, telephone book, or wooden
board.
⚫ Try to separate the person from current using non-conductive object such as wooden or plastic
broom handle, chair, or rubber doormat.
If high voltage lines are involved:
⚫ The local power company must shut them off.
⚫ Do not try to separate the person from current if you feel a tingling sensation in your legs and lower
body. Hop on one foot to a safe place where you can wait for lines to be disconnected.
• If a power line falls on a car, instruct the passengers to stay inside unless explosion or fire
threatens.
When you can safely touch the person, do CPR if the person is not breathing or does not have a pulse.
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2. Check for Other Injuries
• If the person is bleeding, apply pressure and elevate the wound if it's in an arm or leg.
• There may be a fracture if the shock caused the person to fall.
• Put out fire or stop the person's contact with hot liquid, steam, or other material.
• Help the person "stop, drop, and roll" to smother flames.
• Remove smoldering material from the person.
• Remove hot or burned clothing. If clothing sticks to skin, cut or tear around it.
• Take off jewelry, belts, and tight clothing. Burns can swell quickly.
Cool Burn
• Hold burned skin under cool (not cold) running water or immerse in cool water until the pain
subsides.
• Use compresses if running water isn't available.
Protect Burn
Treat Pain
Give over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Panadol, Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil,
Motrin, Nuprin), or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).
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When to See a Doctor
• You see signs of infection, like increased pain, redness, swelling, fever, or oozing.
• The person needs tetanus or booster shot, depending on date of last injection. Tetanus booster
should be given every 10 years.
• The burn blister is larger than two inches or oozes.
• Redness and pain last more than a few hours.
• The pain gets worse.
• The hands, feet, face, or genitals are burned.
Follow Up
• The doctor will examine the burn and may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication.
5. Follow Up
• A doctor will check the person for burns, fractures, dislocations, and other injuries.
• An ECG, blood tests, urine test, CT scan, or MRI may be necessary.
• The person may be admitted to the hospital or a burn center.
1. Cool down the burn. After holding the burn under cool, running water, apply cool, wet
compresses until the pain subsides.
2. Remove tight items, such as rings, from the burned area. Be gentle, but move quickly before
swelling starts.
3. Avoid breaking blisters. Blisters with fluid protect the area from infection. If a blister breaks,
clean the area and gently apply an antibiotic ointment.
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4. Apply a moisturizing lotion, such as one with aloevera. After the burned area has been cooled,
apply a lotion to provide relief and to keep the area from drying out.
5. Loosely bandage the burn. Use sterile gauze. Avoid fluffy cotton that could shed and get stuck to
the healing area. Also avoid putting too much pressure on the burned skin.
3.1.5 Self-Assessment
1. How should PPE be stored?
2. Can PPE be shared, reused, or altered?
3. How do you clean lead contaminated clothes?
4. When Performing Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation By You On An Adult, The Correct Ratio Of
Compressions To Breaths Is?
5. How Do You Check For A Response To Determine Whether Someone Is Unconscious?
6. What Is The Very First Thing You Should Do When You Arrive At An Incident Scene?
7. How Do You Check For A Response To Determine Whether Someone Is Unconscious?
8. When Providing First Aid To An Unconscious Breathing Casualty, How Would You Position
Them?
9. When Using A Defibrillator, How Do You Know Where To Place The Pads?
10. What Is The Best Way To Stop External Blood Loss?
⚫ Hacksaws
⚫ Hammer
⚫ Spirit levels
⚫ Phase Tester
⚫ Side cutters
3.1.7 References
1. https://www.healthline.com/health/electric-shock
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2. https://www.haspod.com/blog/fire/classes-of-fire
3. https://www.realinsurance.com.au/home-insurance/home-safety/the-most-common-causes-
of-house-fires
4. J. Craig Voelkert, A Brief Guide To Fire Chemistry And Extinguishment Theory For Fire
Equipment Service Technicians, 2009 – Revised 2015, Amerex Corporation
5. John F. Riley, Standard for Fire Extinguishers, Rating and Fire Testing of, UL 711 Fifth Edition,
1995, , Institute of Gas Technology
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7. Checking for a response is part of the primary survey. You should check for a response by shouting at
the victim to see if they are reusable. If this does not work, a gentle tap on the shoulders can be used.
8. You should place all unconscious but breathing casualties into the recovery position (on their side
with their head tilted back).
9. Look at the pads! They will have a diagram indicating exactly where on the chest they should be
placed.
10. The best way to stop external blood loss is by applying direct pressure over the wound. Elevation
can also help slow bleeding from a limb.
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Learning Outcome 2: Use of workshop tools, Instruments and equipments
3.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that most injuries on construction sites
involve excavation cave-ins, power tool accidents, falls, electrical hazards, and exposure to
potentially dangerous materials
Working with power tools, you can get an electric shock, lose a finger, lose an eye, or go deaf. It's
especially dangerous to use a tool that's defective, that's been modified, or that's not designed for
the job. Of course, you can also get injured if you use any tool carelessly.
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Figure 40 Drilling machine
Safety Precautions
• Do not support the work piece by hand – use work holding device.
• Use brush to clean the chip
• No adjustments while the machine is operating
• Ensure for the cutting tools running straight before starting the operation.
• Ease the feed if drill breaks inside the work piece.
• Do not wear loose or baggy clothing, ties, jewelry, or sandals. If you have long hair, tie it back or
wear a cap — especially when drilling
• Wear eye protection when sawing and drilling. Safety glasses or goggles are inexpensive and
available at any hardware store.
• Do not hold your finger on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool — it may start
accidentally.
• Grip all tools firmly.
• Be sure to work at a safe distance from others.
• Do not use electric power tools in wet or damp locations.
• Never carry a power tool by its cord.
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The grinding machine consists of a bed with a fixture to guide and hold the work piece, and a power-
driven grinding wheel spinning at the required speed. The speed is determined by the wheel’s diameter
and manufacturer’s rating. The user can control the grinding head to travel across a fixed work piece, or
the work piece can be moved while the grind head stays in a fixed position.
Safety precautions:
Grinding machines are used daily in a machine shop. To avoid injuries follow the safety precautions
listed below.
Welding is joining metal parts (usually) together by heating the surfaces to the point of
melting with a blowpipe, electric arc, or other means, and uniting them by pressing,
hammering, etc.
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Make provisions for ventilation before welding
Compressed gas cylinders should always be secured in an upright position when not in use and
handled with extreme care
Gas cylinders should be stored at least 20 feet away from flammable materials and heat sources
Oxygen cylinders should be stored at least 20 feet away from gas cylinders and combustible
materials.
When not possible, use a 5 feet tall noncombustible barrier with a 30 min. fire-resistance rating
or better.
Shearing machine :
A shearing machine is an industrial machine that cuts metal. An industrial shearing machine generally
presses blades down into metal sheets to punch out shapes. These shapes may be the desired end
product or they may be the waste product. While shearing metal sheets is most common, other metallic
objects may be processed in one of these machines.
Safety Precautions
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• Shearing edges should be maintained in good condition, should be distortion free and
correctly adjusted.
• Working parts should be well lubricated and the blades free of rust and dirt.
• Ensure no slip/trip hazards are present in work spaces and walkways.
• Sufficient space must exist around the machine to prevent accidental contact with passersby.
• Familiarize yourself with and check all machine operations and controls.
• Never use bench shears for cutting metal that is beyond the machine’s capacity with respect
to thickness, shape, or type.
• Material should be properly supported during cutting and industrial type gloves should be
worn to protect the hands.
• Use supports for long material - signpost if a tripping hazard.
• Manual handling tasks should be assessed and appropriate procedures put in place.
• Hold material securely to prevent it tilting during the cut.
• Ensure fingers and limbs are clear before operating the bench shears.
• When not in use this machine must be locked by, for example, a stout pin through the hole in
the blades and kept in place by a padlock.
• Leave the work area in a safe, clean and tidy state.
• Closing movements between shearing surfaces and other parts can result in trapping
• Sharp edges on cutters, work pieces can cause cuts
• Squash/crush and pinch points
Hand tools are non-powered. They include hammers, hacksaw, spanners, chisels, vice, pliers...etc. The
greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance.
General precautions
• Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting
the user
• Using a tool with a wooden handle (e.g., hammer) if the handle is loose, splintered, or
cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or another worker;
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• Using a spanner (wrench) if its jaws are sprung, because it might slip
• Using impact tools (e.g., chisels, wedges) if they have mushroomed heads, the heads might
shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying.
• Hacksaw blades, knives or other tools be directed away from passage-way areas and others
working in close proximity. Knives and scissors shall be sharp. Dull tools can be more
hazardous than sharp ones;
• Floors shall be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around
dangerous hand tools; and
• Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a
dangerous ignition source. Where this hazard exists, spark-resistant tools made from brass,
plastic, aluminum or wood shall be used.
• Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing and when changing accessories such as
blades, bits and cutters
1. Hand tools are tools manipulated by hands without using electrical energy such as: puller,
hacksaw, pull-push rule, pliers, hammer, and others.
2. Machine/Power tools are tools manipulated by our hands and with the use of electrical energy
such as: electric drill, grinding wheels, vacuum cleaner and others.
3. Pneumatic tools are tools or instruments activated by air pressure. Pneumatic tools are
designed around three basic devices: the air cylinder, the vane motor, and the sprayer
Hand tools
they include screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, wrenches and pullers. 1. Screwdrivers are used to drive, or
turn screws. The common type has a single flat blade for driving screws with slotted heads. The other
type has the cross slotted head.
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1. Hammers are mostly used tools in the shop. They should be gripped at the end of the handle.
2. Pliers are specified types of adjustable wrenches. The two legs move on a pivot so that items of
various sizes can be gripped.
3. Wrenches are used to turn screws, nuts and bolts with hexagonal heads. ―Hexagonal‖ means six-
sided. A variety of wrenches are used in the shop.
4. Pullers are used to remove gears and hubs from shafts, bushings from blind holes, and cylinders’
liners from the engine blocks.
Machine/Power Tools
Electric drill has an electric motor that drives a chuck. The chuck has jaws that can be opened and then
closed to grip a drill kit.
Grinding tool can be either bench-mounted or installed on a pedestal. They may either have a grinding
wheel, view wheel, or two grinding wheels.
Vacuum cleaner is used for cleaning the floor and car interiors after service.
Pneumatic tools
These are tools powered by compressed air. Common types of these tools that are used in industry
include; buffers, nailing and stapling guns, graders, drills, jacks chipping hammers, riveting guns,
sanders and wrenches.
Pliers
Pliers are available in different types, shape, and sizes. They are also available in both insulated and
uninsulated handles. An insulated handle should be used when working on or near hot wires. It is also
used for cutting big and small wires.
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Figure 42 pliers
Screw Drivers
A screwdriver comes in various sizes and with several tip shapes. Screwdrivers used by electricians
should have insulated handles. Using a screwdriver for a particular job, the width of the screwdriver tip
should match the width of the screw slot.
Drilling Equipment
Drilling equipment is needed to make holes in building structure passages of conduits and wires.
Figure 44 driller
Sawing and Cutting
Tools Saws commonly used by electricians include the crosscut, keyhole, and hacksaw.
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Figure 45 hark saw
Soldering Equipment
In doing electric wiring splices and taps (connections made to wire) should be soldered, unless you use
solderless connectors. Typical equipments available for soldering are shown below.
Figure 47 hammers
Measuring Tools
To measure wire length and other items, the electrician finds considerable use for measuring tools
such as the extension or zigzag rule, push-pull rule and a steel tape as shown below.
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Figure 48 Measuring tools
Care and Maintenance of workshop tools and Instruments
If you take care of your tools, they will return the favor. Proper care and routine maintenance of your
hand tools and power tools makes any home improvement or repair project easier, safer and more
successful. Proper tool care also saves you money because the better they’re cared for, the longer they
will last.
Hand tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, pliers, levels, and wire cutters are examples of
common household tools that are often left out in places such as basements, garages and tool sheds.
Tools are tough, but they are not indestructible and exposure to the elements can take its toll.
Below are some tips on how to take care of your tools and store them properly so that you get optimum
use out of them.
Make it a habit to clean tools after each use before you return them to storage. Wipe them down with a
rag or old towel and be sure they are free of dust, grease and debris before you put them into their proper
places. This is also an opportunity to look for any damage or defects. Check your tools' handles for
splinters, breaks and cracks. Also, make sure that metal parts show no signs of corrosion or rust. Repair
or replace any tools that show signs of damage.
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Cold chisels, log-splitting wedges and other striking tools can be very dangerous if they are not
maintained properly. Because these types of tools are used for repeated striking, the surface of the metal
head eventually mushrooms out and spreads to form a lip or ridge around the edge. With continued use,
there is more spreading and the metal lip may continue to thin, split or curl until it finally breaks. If the
metal head separates from the handle while in use, this could result in a dangerous projectile. To prevent
this hazard, just grind off the metal edges with a powered grinder on a regular basis.
A proper storage system is a must for hand tools. A toolbox, storage container, shelving unit, or a
combination of all of these can be used to keep your tools protected and in peak condition. Ideally, your
storage units should be kept somewhere with minimal exposure to moisture and temperature changes.
Remember to keep tools in their respective places or hung on designated hangers when a job has been
completed.
Use a small tool bag for the tools you use most often such as tools for simple jobs around the house.
The rest of your tool arsenal can remain in your main toolbox.
You should have a space where you can inspect your tools and perform necessary maintenance
tasks, such as a worktable. Cover it with newspaper or plastic sheeting to protect the table and make
it easier to clean up after you're done with the job.
Hang lawn and garden tools, such as shovels and rakes, on a wall to get them off of the ground and
to protect them from moisture.
Power tools such as electric drills, saws, sanders and nailers need routine maintenance just like your
hand tools. Because of their mechanical and electrical parts, power tools are more susceptible to
problems caused by poor maintenance, dust and debris accumulation and general malfunction. The
following are some helpful tips on how to clean and properly store your tools.
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Dust and grime can bring your power tools to a grinding halt if left unchecked over time. Wipe them
clean with a rag after every job has been completed and then store them. Deep clean periodically by
using a damp cloth. Get into exhausts and intakes and other hard-to-clean areas with lightly oiled cotton
swabs or other slender tools.
Keep your power tools protected from dust, moisture and other adverse conditions by storing them
properly after use. Keep them in their original cases if possible, or tuck them away in storage drawers or
tool chests, preferably in a garage or basement with a moderately controlled climate. This not only
protects them, it also keeps them organized so you can easily find the tool you need when you need it.
Periodically inspect power tools for any signs of wear or damage. Pay special attention to power cords.
If you see frayed insulation or exposed wires, have the cord repaired or replaced immediately by a
professional, unless you have the expertise to do it yourself. Damaged power cords can potentially lead
to injury from electric shock or can cause a fire. Also, check the cord’s prongs to see if they are bent or
loose. If any are, repair or replace.
Keep moving parts lubricated for premium performance. Not only does it keep the mechanics of a tool
running smoothly, it also decreases the chance of rust developing. While common machine oil is a good
choice, consult your owner’s manual to see if the manufacturer recommends or requires a specific type
of oil.
Cordless, battery-powered tools are convenient and portable and have become very popular for
contractors and homeowners alike. To keep them running efficiently and effectively, it is essential for
their batteries to be maintained.
Batteries remain working at peak level by fully charging and then fully discharging their power once
every couple of weeks. Don’t let batteries sit unused for extended periods of time. Try to use batteries
once every two weeks.
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Care for batteries by cleaning contacts with cotton swabs and alcohol. Store batteries you won’t be using
for a while in a dry, clean place away from excessive heat.
3.2.7 References
1. https://gltnhs-tle.weebly.com/lesson-45.html
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2. Mario Gastegger and Simon Zünd, Maintenance of technical and user documentation, 201
3. https://projects.truevalue.com/maintenance_and_repair/basic_maintenance/proper_tool_maintenance.
aspx
2006. Safe Operating Procedure: hand and portable powered tool safetyuniversity of Nebraska. Lincoln
3.2.8 Answers to self-assessment
1.
• If a tool is defective, remove it from service, and tag it clearly "Out of service for repair".
• Replace damaged equipment immediately – do not use defective tools "temporarily".
• Have tools repaired by a qualified person – do not attempt field repairs.
2.
• Inspect tools for any damage prior to each use.
• Check the handle and body casing of the tool for cracks or other damage.
• If the tool has auxiliary or double handles, check to see that they installed securely.
• Inspect cords for defects: check the power cord for cracking, fraying, and other signs of
wear or faults in the cord insulation.
• Check for damaged switches and ones with faulty trigger locks.
3.
• Wear or use personal protective equipment (PPE) or clothing that is appropriate for the
work you are doing; this may include items such as safety glasses or goggles, or a face
shield (with safety glasses or goggles), hearing protection, dust mask, gloves, safety boots
or shoes, or rubber boots.
• Switch off the tools before connecting them to a power supply.
• If a power cord feels more than comfortably warm or if a tool is sparking, have it checked
by an electrician or other qualified person.
• Disconnect the power supply before making adjustments or changing accessories.
• Remove any wrenches and adjusting tools before turning on a tool.
• Inspect the cord for fraying or damage before each use. Tag defective tools clearly with
an "Out of service" tag and replace immediately with a tool in good running order.
• During use, keep power cords clear of tools and the path that the tool will take.
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• Use clamps, a vice or other devices to hold and support the piece being worked on, when
practical to do so. This will allow you to use both hands for better control of the tool and
will help prevent injuries if a tool jams or binds in a work piece.
• Use only approved extension cords that have the proper wire size (gauge) for the length
of cord and power requirements of the electric tool that you are using. This will prevent
the cord from overheating.
• For outdoor work, use outdoor extension cords marked "W-A" or "W".
• Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping
hazards.
• Eliminate octopus connections: if more than one receptacle plug is needed, use a power
bar or power distribution strip that has an integral power cord and a built-in over current
protection.
• Pull the plug, not the cord when unplugging a tool. Pulling the cord causes wear and may
adversely affect the wiring to the plug and cause electrical shock to the operator.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures – keep the work area free of clutter and debris that
could be tripping or slipping hazards.
• Keep power cords away from heat, water, oil, sharp edges and moving parts. They can
damage the insulation and cause a shock.
• Ensure that cutting tools, drill bits, etc. are kept sharp, clean and well maintained.
• Store tools in a dry, secure location when they are not being used.
• Inspect the plug for cracks and for missing, loose or faulty prongs
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5. To avoid injuries follow the safety precautions listed below.
9. Types of maintenance?
• Preventive maintenance.
• Condition-based maintenance.
• Predictive maintenance.
• Corrective maintenance.
• Predetermined maintenance.
• Gaining maintenance knowledge with interplay learning.
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10. Classifications of tools and equipment according to their uses:
⚫ Measuring tools.
⚫ Holding tools.
⚫ Cutting tools.
⚫ Driving tools.
⚫ Boring tools 6. Electrical equipment 7. Miscellaneous tools/instrument/equipment.
⚫
3.3 Learning Outcome 3: Prepare workshop tools and instruments for an Electrical installation
practical
Wire Strippers
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Professional electricians regularly strip the plastic coating on wires to expose the copper and make
customized connections with other wiring or components. This essential electrical maintenance tool
comes in a variety of models and types.
Fish Tape
Fish tape is one of many popular electrician tools. It’s used to run wiring between gang boxes (or other
electrical components) through conduit piping. Fish tape is housed in a retractable coil and can be fed
through installed conduit piping. Once the end of the fish tape appears on the opposite side, wiring can
be hooked to the tape and the tape can be retracted—pulling the wire along the conduit.
Fishing Rods
Fishing rods are essential electrician tools when installing wire through walls, below carpets, or above
ceilings. Rods are typically fiberglass and include hooks on the end for easy manoeuvring.
Terminal Block
These modular, insulated devices assist electricians when grouping multiple wires together. They’re
used to connect wiring to a ground or connect electrical switches and outlets to mains.
Voltage Tester
To safely perform electrical work, electrical power must be cut off in key sections of the property
(usually via the circuit breaker). A hand held voltage tester allows electricians to test outlets for power,
so they know when they’re safe to work on. Electricians also use this tool to confirm power has been
restored.
Reaming Bit
An installing new conduit (or replacing old ones) means connecting different segments of piping
together to create a wiring route between electrical components. A reaming bit attaches to an electric
drill and widens the opening on one end of the piping, allowing it to connect to another segment of
piping and complete a secure conduit.
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Conduit Bender
When determining a wiring route, electricians often run wiring along the corner of the wall or in other
mostly hidden areas. Conduit benders are electrician tools used to curve conduit piping to accommodate
these routes and ensure the conduits remain non-intrusive and efficiently placed in the customer’s home.
Splicing Connector
These plastic clips help electricians make quick connections with multiple pieces of wire. They can be
used with multiple cables, including device wires, telephone cables, and electrical cables.
Flashlights
For an electrician, working in the dark is a potential hazard of the job. Keep essential electrician tools,
like flashlights and other various work lights, handy and within reach
Issuing and confirmation of tools and instruments before and after practical
You can specify tools on job plans and work orders to indicate which tools are needed to perform a task.
In the Stocked Tools application, you can issue tools to those work orders to indicate that the tools are
dispatched for use with the right job
While planning for a practical, one needs to be sure that the tools are in the right order. Some of the
things to consider while testing tools are:
1. making sure that they are working as expected
2. they can give accurate ,measurement
3. Screw drivers are not blunt
4. Stripping tools are.
3.3.4 Learning Activities
A textile manufacturing factory in Thika has organized a workshop and asked to train the electrical
technicians on some new installation skills. As the lead technician, prepare workshop tools and
instruments for the expected demonstration.
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2. Electrical tools need to last for a long time. What should be done to make them last for a
long time?
3. There are different types of wire strippers. What are they?
4. Pliers are available in a variety of designs for different specialist tasks. Which are these
types?
5. What are the best electrician’s screwdrivers?
6. How do you manage tools and equipment?
7. How do you manage office equipment?
8. What are the basic maintenance of electrical tools and equipment?
9. Why is classifying tools and equipment important?
10. What equipment can be used to test electricity?
3.3.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Pliers
Hacksaws
Hammer
Spirit levels
Phase Tester
Side cutters
3.3.7 References
https://www.servicetitan.com/blog/best-electrician-tools
https://www.ibm.com/support/knowledgecenter/SSWT9A_7.6.1.2/com.ibm.mbs.doc/toolinv/t_issue_sto
cked_tools.html.
1. Workplace safety should be a continuous effort for any company. You will most likely never
achieve perfect safety, so there will always be areas for improvement. Here are some ways you
can start improving the safety or your facility:
• Organize: Often times a messy or cluttered facility can lead to injury. A great first step in
improving your safety strategy is to organize workbenches and cells. Arranging spaces in a
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logical manner, organizing tools and materials, and cleaning will make it much easier for people
to do their job without worrying about slipping or tripping.
• Develop a committee: Workplace safety is seen as a priority when workers are brought together
to form a safety committee. The safety committee is a permanent committee dedicated to
identifying potential safety risks and implementing a solution. Senior management should
support changes or improvements recommended by the committee.
• Perform a JSA: In order to fully understand the state of your facility’s safety it will be
important to conduct a Job Safety Analysis. It is proves use to identify safety hazards in specific
jobs and use accepted best practices to make improvements; the more specific the better!
• Go visual: Visual cues are one of the most effective ways to remind workers of safety practices
and promote a culture of safety. The best visual communication strategies include a combination
of equipment labels, wall signs, floor signs, floor markings, chemical labels, and more.
• Take a Gemba walk: Sometimes managers and supervisors don’t spend much time on the
production line or the facility floor and can often overlook safety hazards. Taking a Gemba walk
in the workplace and speaking with the front line workers can show you if jobs are being
performed safely, if there are any glaring issues, and how people feel about current safety
procedures.
There are so many different avenues to choose from when looking to improve the safety of your facility;
above are just a few! The most important thing to remember when addressing occupational safety is to
do it with a continuous improvement mind-set and don’t forget to include everyone.
2. It’s all well and good to ensure you have all the tools of the trade, but if you don’t look after them, it
will just end up costing hundreds, if not thousands, to continually replace them.
On top of this, tools that are in better condition are safer and a safer working environment is essential. So, here
are some tips and tricks.
• Ensure they are stored correctly. Store them in bags, boxes, hang them on the wall or create a dedicated tool
shelf, but either way, never leave your tools just lying around. A peg board is a fantastic way to store your
small tools.
• Make sure the storage place is dry. Humidity and moisture can do a world of damage to your tools so take the
required measures to protect them. There’s nothing worse than rusty tools.
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• Whenever you’re done for the day, clear your tools prior to storing them. A clean cloth to remove any excess
oils, sawdust or grease.
• Repair your tools when required. Check your tools after every job and take immediate measures to fix anything
that needs fixing. If the tool is completely ruined, replace it immediately.
Adjustable strippers - these combine stripping with crimping and wire-snipping abilities.
Triple action wire strippers – these strippers are made for thicker cabling with tough insulation
and can use a unique spiral cutting motion.
Wire stripper pliers – these feature V-shaped stripping jaws for thicker, multicore cables.
Sheath stripper – these use a rotary action and produce a neat ring cut.
Pistol wire stripper – these strippers have a self-adjusting blade and use a compound stripping
action with a firm grip.
Automatic wire strippers – these use a mechanism to remove insulation and cut wire rapidly,
with a single application of pressure
Manual wire strippers – these are the standard, hand-operated model, but usually, include a
spring-loaded handle and safety lock.
4. Pliers are available in a variety of designs for different specialist tasks. These include:
Long nose pliers- these have long tapered jaws making them ideal for gripping small objects.
Combination pliers– these feature a design that combines wire cutting, insulation stripping and
gripping functions in a single tool.
Water pump pliers– also known as slip joint pliers, tongue-and-groove pliers and adjustable
pliers (among other names), these tools feature a movable lower jaw, allowing the span of the
grip to be adjusted. They are ideal for use with nuts, bolts and fasteners.
Side-cutting pliers– also known as wire cutters, these are typically used with wire. A variant
called diagonal cutter applies different finishes to the cut wire.
Mole grips/ locking pliers– these are ideal when working with metal.
5. The best electrician’s screwdrivers are fully insulated against electrical shocks: an obvious safety
hazard.
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Properly insulated tools are a safety basic.
6. Tips for better equipment inventory management
⚫ Keep your machines clean. Machines should be kept clean and free from dust at all times.
⚫ Put some thought into where you place your machines. ...
⚫ Regularly check for small repairs and defects. ...
⚫ Follow instruction manuals for usage. ...
⚫ Follow required inspection and maintenance. ...
⚫ Need help managing your print equipment?
8. Basic maintenance of electrical tools and equipment • clean out the dust. to make sure that your
electric tools are ready to go when you are, keep them clean and free of dust. spend some time to
clean out the dust every once in a while on your tools while they are inactive in storage.
9. Each tool is precisely designed for a specific purpose, so choosing the correct tool will also
decrease the amount of effort required to get a job done right without causing damage to either
the equipment or the surface being worked on.
10. Multimeters are the most versatile of the electrical testers and, as the name implies, they are
capable of many different testing functions. All professional electricians own one of these tools.
Most multimeters can provide precise readings of resistance, AC and DC voltage, continuity,
capacitance, and frequency.
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3.3 Learning Outcome 4: Prepare the workshop for an Electrical practical
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• Decide on the order of the topics. Move the most important skills or information to the early part
of the workshop. Depending on the subject of the workshop, it may also be useful to introduce
and build on each topic, beginning with the simplest or most straight forward topic and
concluding with the more difficult or complex topic.
• Determine ground rules for the workshop. Rules or guidelines such as only one person speaks at
a time or raising a hand to speak, as well as shutting off any cell phones or distracting devices are
good to establish at the onset of the workshop.
• Decide how you will wrap up the workshop. You might include a short review of learned skills,
announce the next level in a series of workshops and/or implement a participant feedback form.
4. Assign an estimated length of time to each item on the outline. For particularly complicated
topics or skills, allot a sufficient amount of time in case participants get stuck or have questions.
It is also important to factor in scheduled breaks during the workshop to give the participants a
chance to go to the bathroom or stretch their legs.
5. Once you complete your outline, practice giving your workshop presentation. Rehearsal is
an important part of the workshop preparation process. Present your information to colleagues,
friends or relatives ahead of time, and ask them to give you feedback on the clarity and
effectiveness of your presentation.
➢ Interpretation of a list of practical material
Electrical Materials include;
⚫ Electrical Conduit and Conduit Fitting. Conduit fittings, also called electrical fittings, are used to
connect runs of conduit together or to connect conduit to electrical devices. Select from conduit
fittings such as adapters, bushings, couplings, elbows, straps, and connectors.
⚫ Electrical Wire and Cable. Electrical cable and wires are considered as a same thing. In fact they are
quite different. A wire is made of a single electrical conductor while a cable is a group or bundle of
multiple wires inside a common sheathing. Both of them are used for carrying electrical current.
⚫ Circuit Breakers. A circuit breaker is an automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect
an electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current from an overload
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covered with matching electrical box covers. You can't cover them with drywall, paneling or other wall
coverings.
⚫
3.4.4 Learning Activities
You are a team leader in a practical lesson. The trainer gives you the following circuit to install.
Interpret the circuit and prepare a list of materials to be used during the practical.
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3.4.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
⚫ Pliers
⚫ Hacksaws
⚫ Hammer
⚫ Spirit levels
⚫ Phase Tester
⚫ Side cutters
3.4.7 References
https://www.wikihow.com/Prepare-a-Workshop
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piYv9cdMgP8
3.4.8 Answers to Self-Assessment
1. Industrial Electricity Workshop This workshop specializes in maintaining and repairing power
circuits, alternators, power panels, electromechanical equipment, field generators and other related
equipment.
⚫ Disconnect completely. Meaning that the electrical installation must be disconnected from live parts
on all poles. …
⚫ Secure against re-connection. …
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⚫ Verify that the installation is dead. …
⚫ Carry out earthing and short-circuiting. …
⚫ Provide protection against adjacent live parts.
4. What is the most important rule of electrical safety? Never work on an energized circuit except if the
power cannot be disconnected. A piece of equipment can help us to think before acting. Do not depend
on circuit breakers, fuses which may misguide wrongly.
5. A power tool is a tool that is actuated by an additional power source and mechanism other than the
solely manual labor used with hand tools. The most common types of power tools use electric motors.
.Power tools are classified as either stationary or portable, where portable means hand-held.
6. Basic electricity:
⚫ Series Circuit. A series circuit there is only one path for the electrons to flow (see image of series
circuit).
⚫ Parallel Circuit. .
⚫ Series/parallel circuits
9. Basic steps to estimate electrical job
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8. Build your Proposal.
10. Dedicate two 20-amp circuits for bench top and portable-tool outlets. Larger 120-volt machines
(table saw, planer, dust-collector, etc.) require a 20- or 30-amp circuit. If you run two machines at once,
such as your table saw and dust collector, then each needs a separate circuit.
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3.5 Learning Outcome 5: Store Electrical tools and materials after practicals
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Electrical instruments are classified according to the electrical quantity or the measured characteristics.
It is also classified according to the type of test function, according to the current that can be measured
by them.
Ammeter
An ammeter is an instrument which is used to measure the electric current in amperes in a branch of an
electric circuit. In order to measure the current it must flow through the ammeter, so the ammeter must
be placed in series with the measured branch and it must have very low resistance so that the alteration
of the current can be avoided which is measured. Instruments which is used to measure smaller currents
are micro-ammeter. The ammeter is connected in series to the device which is to be measured because
objects in series have the same current.
Types of ammeter
Moving iron ammeter
In a moving iron, ammeter can measure the AC and DC; it has an iron piece instead of the spring and
pointer system of the galvanometer. The iron will act by the magnetic field created in the coil.
Zero centre ammeters are used where the voltage needs to be monitored in two directions and they are
used along with a battery. In this the charging of battery deflects the needle in one direction and
discharging of the battery deflects the battery in the other.
Galvanometer
Galvanometer was the first type of ammeter, it is used to detect and measure electric current. It is an
analogue electromechanical transducer which makes a rotary deflection in response to the electric
current flowing through the coil. A galvanometer can read direct current flow, the magnetic field
created as current flows through a coil acts on a spring, which will move the needle indicator.
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Figure 50 galvanometer
Shunt
A shunt can be used in ammeters to measure large currents, shunt acts as a resistor the known quantity
of resistance is used to obtain an accurate reading. Digital ammeters use analog to digital converter to
measure the current across the shunt.
Clamp meter
Clamp meters are used to measure the current flowing through a conductor, AC clamp meters have a
current transformer in it. With the help of the current transformer the reading will be taken. There are
two types of clamp meters AC clamp meter which is used to measure the AC and the DC clamp meter
which is used to measure the DC.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter can be considered as a kind of galvanometer, which can be used to measure the voltage
potential of an electrical circuit or the potential difference between two points. A voltmeter can also be
considered as an ammeter they also measure the current, voltage is only measured when the current is
transmitted in a circuit through resistance. Voltmeters are capable to measure the current, voltage and
resistance. Voltmeters are also termed as high resistance ammeters they can also measure DC and AC. A
voltmeter can measure the change in voltage by two points in an electrical circuit and they are connected
in parallel with the portion of the circuit on which the measurement is made. Voltmeters must have high
resistance so that it won’t have any effect on the current or voltage associated with the circuit.
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Types of voltmeter
Digital voltmeter
Digital voltmeters can measure the AC and DC voltages and it displays the result in converted digital
form with decimal point and polarity. It can provide accurate details about the current draw and current
continuity and this will help the users to troubleshoot erratic loads.
Ohmmeter
An ohmmeter is an instrument that is used to measure the resistance and they can measure the value of
resistance accurately. According to their measurement and construction, these instruments are classified
into the series type and shunt type ohmmeter. It can be used to check the continuity of the electrical
circuits and components. Series type ohmmeters are used to measure the high resistance values while the
shunt type is used to measure low resistance values.
Potentiometer
Potentiometer is instruments that can be used to measure the unknown voltage. The known voltage will
be supplied from a standard cell or any other known voltage reference source. Potentiometer
measurement has high accuracy because the measurement is done by the comparison method and the
obtained result is not by the deflection of the pointer. Potentiometer can be used to compare the E.M.F
of the two cells, it can be used to determine the E.M.F of a cell, it can be used to determine the internal
resistance of a cell and to calibrate the voltmeter and ammeter.
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Wattmeter
Watt-meters are used to measure power; these instruments are similar in design and construction of an
ammeter. It can be used to measure the average electric power in watts. Wattmeter has two coils they are
current and pressure coil. Wattmeter can be used to measure the gain in amplifiers, bandwidth in filters.
Multi-meter
Multi-meters can be used to make various electrical measurements; they can be used to measure AC and
DC voltage, AC and DC current, and resistance. It is known as multi-meter because it can do the
functions of various meters such as voltmeter, ammeter, and ohm-meter. Multi-meters can also be used
to check the continuity. Multi-meters are of two types they are analog and digital multi-meter analog
multi-meter has an analog scale and they are less accurate, while the digital multi-meter and the reading
are in digital and they are more accurate.
The proper care and storage of tools and equipment are not only the concern of the
management but of the workers who use the equipment.
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5. Store knives properly when not in use with sharp edge down.
9. Metal equipment can be stacked on one another after drying such as storage dishes and
bowls.
10. Make sure the areas where you are storing the equipment are clean, dry and not
overcrowded.
Store short-handled tools in a plastic bin or box. Tie together long-handled tools in a garbage can while
in storage. Otherwise hang these tools on a wall. If you are storing tools in self-storage, place
small tools in plastic bins.
➢ Tools are cleaned as per the workshop standard operating procedure
To ensure tools have a longer utility and lifespan, they must be properly cared for. Cleaning your tools
should be approached in the same manner that you clean any other equipment or surface in your facility.
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As part of the care strategy, cleaning tools should be hung to thoroughly dry. Brushes, brooms and
squeegees should be stored in wall brackets and shouldn’t touch the walls or other cleaning tools while
drying or while being stored.
In addition to keeping tools clean, facilities should also move beyond the concept of just fixing or
replacing a tool when it is broken. A tool that breaks while in use can trigger significant downtime and
operational losses. Several companies have transitioned to the practice of diagnostic maintenance, where
the maintenance crew sets a troubleshooting and monitoring schedule to ensure that tools and equipment
are functioning as intended.
➢ Waste Disposal
Waste is any substance which is discarded after primary use, or is worthless, defective and of no use. A
by-product by contrast is a joint product of relatively minor economic value.
Waste management (or waste disposal) includes the activities and actions required to
manage waste from its inception to its final disposal. This includes the collection, transport, treatment
and disposal of waste, together with monitoring and regulation of the waste management process.
1.4.1.3 Recycling
Recycling refers to both the direct reuse of used products (e.g. used clothing and functioning parts
removed from used vehicles) and material recycling, that is the recovery of raw materials from waste
(e.g. production of new glass from fragments, the melting of scrap iron and the production of recycled
building materials from construction waste). Down cycling refers to the transformation of waste to
materials of lower quality than the initially used material.
1.4.1.4 Incineration
Combustible waste from households and waste wood that is not suitable for recycling undergo thermal
treatment in waste incineration plants or waste wood furnaces. The heat released in the process is used
to generate electricity and heat buildings. Waste with a high calorific value and low level of pollutant
contamination can be used in industrial plants, e.g. cement plants, as an alternative to fossil fuels. Waste
that is contaminated with organic pollutants undergoes separate thermal treatment (e.g. in hazardous
waste incineration plants). Incinerators must have a flue gas treatment system. The requirements for flue
gas treatment and the incineration system are based on the nature of the waste.
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1.4.1.5 Chemical-physical and biological treatment
The objective of both chemical-physical and biological treatment is to enable the removal of pollutants
from waste or its safe land filling. Waste water and polluted excavated material are typical of the types
of waste that are managed in this way. Following chemical-physical treatment, the pollutants can be
disposed of in concentrated form in facilities suitable for this purpose.
1.4.1.6 Landfills
Residues from waste incineration or waste that is not suitable for material recycling or thermal treatment
are deposited in landfills that are compliant with the legal requirements. If the waste does not fulfil the
requirements for land filling, it must be pre-treated
The waste management sector involves many different specialised actors. Their tasks include the
collection of waste at source (industry, commerce and households) in suitable transport containers, its
intermediate storage and handover to waste disposal operations. The treatment of waste is often based on
a cascade of specialised plants. In all cases, smooth logistics are a precondition for the efficient
management of waste. In the case of hazardous waste, in accordance with the Ordinance on Movements
of Waste, the handover must be documented.
⚫ Measuring tools.
⚫ Holding tools.
⚫ Cutting tools.
⚫ Driving tools.
⚫ Boring tools
4. There are hundreds of tools used in a workshop. Saws are some of the most common. A circular saw
is attached to a table and spins round in a circle. It is used to cut large sheets of wood. ... A drill is an
electric tool that spins round and is used to make holes in material so that a screw can be put in.
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5. Waste disposal, the collection, processing, and recycling or deposition of the waste materials of
human society. The term waste is typically applied to solid waste, sewage (waste water),
hazardous waste, and electronic waste.
6. Disposing of waste has huge environmental impacts and can cause serious problems. ...
Some waste will eventually rot, but not all, and in the process it may smell, or generate methane gas,
which is explosive and contributes to the greenhouse effect. Leachate produced as waste decomposes
may cause pollution.
7. The mismanagement of landfill waste caused by garbage pollution
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3.6 Learning Outcome 6: Troubleshoot and repair of workshop tools and equipment
3.6.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
The level of troubleshooting most often performed on tools and equipments hardware is
exchanging Field Replaceable Units (FRUs). The cost of using a technician to diagnose the problem
further, and repair it, can quickly exceed the cost of the new replacement unit.
3.6.2 Performance Standard
➢ Meaning of troubleshooting
➢ Common faults in Electrical equipments
• Fault diagnosis procedure
➢ Repair/Replace of components in Electrical equipments
3.6.3 Information Sheet
➢ Meaning of troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is a form of problem solving, often applied to repair failed products or processes on a
machine or a system. It is a logical, systematic search for the source of a problem in order to solve it,
and make the product or process operational again. Troubleshooting is needed to identify the symptoms.
Determining the most likely cause is a process of elimination—eliminating potential causes of a
problem. Finally, troubleshooting requires confirmation that the solution restores the product or process
to its working state.
A system can be described in terms of its expected, desired or intended behavior (usually, for artificial
systems, its purpose). Events or inputs to the system are expected to generate specific results or outputs.
(For example, selecting the "print" option from various computer applications is intended to result in
a hardcopy emerging from some specific device). Any unexpected or undesirable behavior is a
symptom. Troubleshooting is the process of isolating the specific cause or causes of the symptom.
Frequently the symptom is a failure of the product or process to produce any results. (Nothing was
printed, for example). Corrective action can then be taken to prevent further failures of a similar kind.
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➢ Common faults in Electrical equipments
Fault-finding for electronic/electrical equipment is a skill that is neither an art nor a science, but an
engineering discipline in its own right. Effective fault-finding requires:
• A good general knowledge of electricity and electronics.
• Specialized knowledge of the faulty equipment.
• Suitable test equipment.
• Experience in using such test equipment.
• The ability to formulate a procedure for isolating a fault.
• The availability of service sheets and other guides.
Common Problems
An electrical fault is the deviation of voltages and currents from nominal values or states. Under
normal operating conditions, power system equipment or lines carry normal voltages and currents which
results in safer operation of the system.
But when a fault occurs, it causes excessively high currents to flow which causes damage to equipment
and devices. Fault detection and analysis are necessary to select or design suitable switchgear
equipment, electromechanical relays, circuit breakers, and other protection devices.
There are mainly two types of faults in the electrical power system. Those are symmetrical and
unsymmetrical faults.
Symmetrical faults
These are very severe faults and occur infrequently in the power systems. These are also called balanced
faults and are of two types namely line to line to ground (L-L-L-G) and line to line (L-L-L).
2.Unsymmetrical faults
These are very common and less severe than symmetrical faults. There are mainly three types namely line
to ground (L-G), line to line (L-L), and double line to ground (LL-G) faults.
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1. Collect the Evidence
All the evidence collected must be relevant to the problem in hand. If one is in doubt as to whether
anything is relevant, then include it. Reject it afterwards at the first opportunity if it clearly is not
relevant. The quantity of information collected is unimportant, what matters are that all information
collected is relevant. Observe the system running, if you consider it safe to do so. Use all your senses:
smell (burning), hearing (vibration), touch (temperature), sight (for unusual conditions). Refer to any
relevant documentation.
Consider all the evidence collected and, if possible, reject any which after further careful consideration
is not relevant. Study the hard core of relevant evidence and – through the process of careful, logical
thinking –diagnose the likely fault or at least the area or region of the fault.
In a sense this is a continuation of the process of ‘analyses. The areas or regions are systematically
reduced in size until a specific part can be identified as being faulty. For example, if a door bell does not
ring when it should; it is only by means of a systematic approach that one determines that the bell itself
is faulty.
If the cause of a fault is not removed, the fault will recur even though the fault has been rectified. For
instance, a flat bicycle tyre might be the result of a puncture (the fault) in the inner tube. If the puncture
is repaired (i.e. the fault is removed) this will not be of much use if the cause of the puncture in the first
place is not determined and appropriate action taken. The cause of the puncture may be a nail which has
penetrated the outer cover. This must be removed
This may be a simple task, as in the case referred to above, or it may be a much bigger one. Whatever is
the case, it is a specific task based on earlier findings.
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6. Check the System
It is important to ensure that the machine, equipment or system is functioning normally after the cause of
the fault and the fault itself has been dealt with. In the case of the puncture, it is easy to confirm that the
cause of the fault – and the fault itself – has indeed been dealt with satisfactorily, assuming that the tyre
remains inflated. With more sophisticated equipment or systems it may necessary to ‘fine-tune’ the
system in order to return it to optimum working conditions.
Any electronic instrument or piece of equipment can be considered as a system. A system can be defined
as “anything formed of component parts connected together to make a regular and complete whole”.
An instrument or piece of equipment can have subsystems made in blocks to perform specific functions.
These subsystems are made up of electronic circuits, which are forms of electronic/electrical or
electromechanical component parts. The failure of a component in equipment may lead to the failure of
the system. Failure is said to be the inability of a system to perform its required function. The need for
continuous performance of equipment requires that it is given regular maintenance. It is, therefore
imperative that the meaning of maintenance is well understood.
Maintenance
This is all the activities carried out on an equipment in terms of proper installation, good servicing,
routine checks, repairs and replacement of faulty parts in order for such equipment to operate at it
maximum output throughout its useful life. An equipment or instrument is considered to have failed when
under any of these conditions:
b) when it is still in operation but unable to perform the required function any longer
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Maintenance of tools and equipment in electrical workshop
Preventive Maintenance
This is the practice or arrangement whereby a piece of equipment or instrument are regularly
checked, oiled, greased or cleaned according to manufacturer’s specification for effective
performance. This maintenance method is normally carried out at a specified time of a year and in
that case the entire working system is shut down. Fund is normally provided to ensure that spare
parts and some other materials meant for such maintenance are provided. The essence of this form
of maintenance is to ensure that the equipment does not break down and thus performs to
specification.
Corrective Maintenance
This method is applied to equipment that has failed and thus broken down due to either improper
operations or a defective part. It is concerned with the detection, location and repairs of faults as
they occur. This requires a good understanding of system fault location methods in addition to an
understanding of overall system and circuit operation.
Types of Maintenance
There are five different types of maintenance and these are as follows:
This is servicing of equipment periodically at regular intervals. The particular maintenance requirements
will probably vary with the level of service. For example the requirements for 12 monthly services will be
different for those for 3 monthly.
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This type of maintenance requires the use of human senses to know when it is needed. In the cause of
operating an equipment one may see signs of smoking, electrical sparks, feel for excessive heated, smells
for signs of burning and some others. The condition at which the equipment is will necessitate that it
should be opened up immediately for maintenance. This act will assist in preventing further damage.
Some more complex systems have sensing devices built in to them, and alarm systems to detect variation
from the norm.
This is carried out when an equipment is opened up for repairs and this opportunity is used to do any
other maintenance tasks which are due in the near future, such as routine servicing and the replacement of
any parts which are at the end of their useful life. Also, the opportunity can be used to replace a broken
part which had occurred before opening the equipment but had no effect in its operation.
This maintenance type is used on equipment which has a part that is failing regularly due to an apparent
design weakness. It may be possible to upgrade the weak part and effectively change the design for the
better. If a particular part is not available one may be able to change the design to allow a more common
part to be used. In spectrophotometry, for example, it may be possible to modify a simple car headlamp
bulb to enable it to function as a tungsten source.
These are cases whereby equipment is not given general routine care but it is allowed to fail before any
other maintenance is attempted. This is widely used on electronic equipment which normally is not just
taken to a mechanic for servicing while still functional. They are only opened up when they have broken
down. This means that equipment is operated to failure before it is opened up for maintenance.
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3.6.4 Learning Activities
You are an employee of Igembe tea factory in Meru County. The production manager notices that the
circuit breaker connected to the tea leafs drying section keeps on tripping. As a qualified electrician,
troubleshoot the root cause of the problem.
3.6.5 Self-Assessment
1. How do you troubleshoot electrical equipment?
2. What are the three main electrical test instruments used in troubleshooting?
3. What are the six steps in the troubleshooting process?
4. Mention what are the challenges that maintenance and repair work usually face?
5. What is the potential risk that repair and maintenance work usually face?
3.6.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
⚫ Pliers
⚫ Hacksaws
⚫ Hammer
⚫ Spirit levels
⚫ Phase Tester
⚫ Side cutters
3.6.7 References
https://www.industrial-electronics.com/elec-srvc-level-3_39.html
https://www.mcptechnicaltraining.com/blog/six-step-approach-to-fault-finding
https://medium.com/@Adamu67981783/maintenance-and-repair-of-electronics-equipment-stp-221-
4fe287c5208e
3.6.8 Answers to self-assessment
1. Electrical Troubleshooting in Seven Steps
⚫ Gather information.
⚫ Understand the malfunction.
⚫ Identify which parameters need to be evaluated.
⚫ Identify the source of the problem.
⚫ Correct/repair the component.
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⚫ Verify the repair.
⚫ Perform root cause analysis.
2. Meters and test equipment, as well as print tools, such as operating logs and schematics, will all help
you diagnose and solve electrical problems. The fundamental diagnostic tools and test equipment are
the voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter. The basic functions of these meters are combined in a
multimeter.
3.
⚫ Identify the problem.
⚫ Establish a theory of probably cause.
⚫ Test the theory to determine cause.
⚫ Establish a plan of action to resolve the problem and implement the solution.
⚫ Verify full system functionality and if applicable implement preventative measures.
⚫ Document findings, actions, and outcomes
4. The challenges faced include:
• Unusual working condition like bad weather or low temperature
• May have to work in an unusual shift
• May have to work in a messy area
• May sometimes be physically distressing and exhausting
• May have to work in dangerous places like working at height or working with electrical
appliances and wires
5. The potential risk that repair and maintenance worker faces are
• Faulty electrical: Risk of electrocuted always remains with repair and maintenance workers, if
not equipped with electric-proof tools and attires. They are prone to burns, shocks, etc.
• Lifting equipment: Workers usually have to deal with heavy metal objects and lifting equipment
is not inspected or maintained then they are at risk of a fatal accident
• Maintenance of working and walking surfaces: Slippery working surfaces, sharp tools and nails
scattered on working surface, slip and trip, uneven and potholed are some potential hazard that may
cause an accident
• Dust: It potential risk for the workers specially working in woodworking or iron industries
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CHAPTER FOUR: TECHNICAL DRAWING
Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard; Prepare and interpret technical drawings
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to prepare and interpret technical drawings. It involves
competencies to select, applying and maintaining drawing equipment and materials, producing plane
geometry drawings, producing solid geometry drawings, producing orthographic and pictorial drawings and
applying CAD packages
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee to be competent in identifying, and gathering
drawing and drawing materials according to task requirements. It also covers content on maintenance of
drawings and drawing materials.
Performance standard
A draftsperson needs some basic tools to draw. These should include the following:
i. A range of pencils
ii. Ruler
iii. Set squares
iv. Rubber
v. Compasses
vi. Dividers
vii. Drawing board
viii. T-square
ix. Clips or tape
x. Emery board or fine sandpaper
Pencils: You will need a selection of pencils. A hard leaded pencil (6H) can be used for light
lines, a softer pencil (2H) for the outlines and an even softer pencil (HB) for printing. (More
than one pencil of each grade will save you from frequent re-sharpening.)
Ruler: It is advisable to have a transparent ruler.
Set squares: You will need at least two set squares: a 60 ° and a 45 ° set square. It will be also
useful to have an adjustable set square, which will enable you to set the angle on the set square
to anywhere between 0 ° and 90 °. If you have an adjustable set square you can manage without
the other two.
Rubber: Choose a good quality rubber, one that does not smudge.
Compasses: You will need at least two compasses: a small spring bow compass for small
circles and one for larger circles.
Dividers: A pair of dividers is essential.
Drawing board and T-square: Drawing boards for size A2 paper can be bought with a fitted
horizontal square which slides up and down on rollers. A less expensive board is one that is
used with a separate T-square which slides up and down on the side of the drawing board and
has to be held in place when used.
Clips or tape: The best tape to use to hold paper on the drawing board is masking tape but
metal drawing board clips are easier to use.
Emery board or fine sandpaper: This is used to ensure that the lead in the pencils is kept
sharp.
• Compass
• French curve
Instruments for Measuring Distance
• Divider
• Scales
Instruments for Measuring Angles
• Protractors
• Set-squares
• Special Tool
• Mini drafter
There are other instruments that will help you to draw quickly and accurately.
These include the following:
a) French curves (for drawing non-circular curves accurately).
b) Large spring bow compasses.
c) Trammel (for drawing circles with very large diameters).
d) Scales (rulers with special markings for drawing items bigger or smaller than they are in real life)
Drawing materials
These are consumable items used for technical drawing. They are consumable because they cannot be reused
after being used.
1. Drawing paper
These are white papers on which drawing is done. The mostly used sizes are A2 to A4
2. Erasers
Erasers are rubber materials used to clean errors made. A good eraser should be able to clean errors
without tearing the paper.
3. Handkerchief
It is a small clothing material used for cleaning and dusting.
4. Emery clothes/glass paper
They are materials used to maintain the sharpness of pencils at all times
5. Adhesives
It is commonly called callotape.it is used to fix drawing paper on the drawing board.
6. Drawing pencils
The drawing pencil is used for preparing the drawing on the drawing paper.
Pencils
Pencils are the main drawing instruments used to draw the lines, circles, arcs, polygons, etc. with respect to
the scale provided. Some of the pencils are hard and some of the pencils are smooth.
The hard pencils are used to draw the construction lines and the smooth pencils are used to draw the main
lines.
4. H Grades:
H leads give cleaner lines and are also smudge resistant, making them perfect for outlining, technical
drawings, painting with watercolors after the sketch and light sketches.
The only flip side is that as you move up the scale, the harder the leads will get and they tend to be scratchy.
So make sure you practice and experiment before you begin on your actual art project.
2. HB:
3. B Grade:
B grades smudge easily, are smooth to write and draw with. But they are easily erasable. As you go higher
up the scale with these pencils, artists can take advantage of the brush- like expressions that can result while
using this grade of pencils. Animators in particular love using 10B on the animator paper as it writes so
smoothly – like butter, creating quick, heavy lines without friction.
4. F Grade:
The F grade also lies in the middle of the spectrum. The letter ‘F’ stands for ‘fine’. The lead with ‘F’ grade
contains a limited amount of graphite and more amount of clay. It has a hard lead but gives a lighter shade
when used.
Depending on the smooth and hard quality or the hardness, pencils are classified into 18 grades and they are
as follows.
9H Hardest
3H Very hard
2H Hard
H Moderately hard
F Firm
HB Medium hard
7B Softest
3H Construction lines
2. Wood.
3. Painted body.
4. Ferrule.
5. Eraser.
Drawing board
1.Do not use drawing board for any other purpose than for drawing
2.The surface of the drawing board must be in good condition. Do not using sharp object to cut on
it.
3. Always clean the drawing board before use.
4. Cover drawing board surface with paper or cardboard after use
Tee square
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Title Block
The title block should lie within the drawing space at the bottom right hand comer of the sheet. The title
block can have a maximum length of 170 mm providing the following information.
1. Title of the drawing
2. Drawing number
3. Scale
4. Symbol denoting the method of projection
5. Name of the firm
6. Initials of staff who have designed, checked and approved
7. Date when the drawing was finished
8. Name of the person who checked the drawing
9. Remarks
Lettering
Lettering used in engineering drawing is referred to as a Single Stroke, Commercial Gothic Hints
on Lettering
Most notes on drawings are done in upper case (capital letters) although this is not always so.
Two alphabets and numbers are shown below.
Most draftspersons develop great skills in printing by hand. If you need to print, try both standard
and italic and develop a style that suits you.
Standard print
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghIjklmnopqrstuvwxyz
1234567890
Lines
In Engineering Drawing, we make use of different lines and line styles to convey the desired message.
These lines differ in (i) thickness and (ii) style
Recommended
line thickness [mm]
Type of Line and Designation Applications
PAPER SIZE
A4/A3/A2 A1/A0
B: 1. Dimensioning line
2. Projection or extension lines
(used to project points from one view to
A continuous thin line
another) 0.25 0.35
3. Hatching
4. Outlines of adjacent parts
5. Outline of revolved views or
revolved sections
Learning Activities
Make a sketch of an A 1 size drawing sheet, showing in it, the border lines, margin lines, folding marks,
zones and the title block. Give the untrimmed and trimmed sizes of this sheet.
In an A3 size sheet, Copy the drawings below as per layout shown. [All dimensions are in mm.]
Write freehand the following, using single stroke vertical (CAPITAL and lower-case) letters:
Self-assessment
1. Drawing tools
2. Drawing set
3. Drawing papers
4. Erasers
5. Series of pencils
6. Drawing board
References
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee to acquire the competence of producing plane geometry
drawings.
Performance Standard
i. Different types of lines used in drawing and their meanings are identified according to standard drawing
conventions
ii. Different types of geometric forms are constructed according to standard conventions
iii. Different types of angles are constructed according to principles of trigonometry
iv. Different types of angles are measured using appropriate measuring tools
v. Angles are bisected according to standard conventions
vi. Freehand sketching of different types of geometric forms, tools, , diagrams is conducted
Information sheet
i. Add the ratios 1+3+4 = 8 and divide the line into 8 equal divisions.
ii. Obtain P and Q to divide the line AB in the ratio 1:3:4.
Triangles
i. Scalene triangle is a triangle with three unequal sides and three unequal angles.
ii.Isosceles triangle is a triangle with two sides, and hence two angles, equal.
iii.
Equilateral triangle is a triangle with all the sides, and hence all the angles, equal.
iv.Right-angled triangle is a triangle containing one right angle. The side opposite the right angle is
called the ‘hypotenuse’.
v. Obtuse-angled triangle
Acute-angled triangle
Constructions of triangles
Example:
To construct a ΔABC in which ∠B = 60°; ∠C = 45° and their included side BC = 3cm
▪ Draw BC = 3cm
▪ Construct ∠BCQ = 45°
▪ Construct ∠PBC = 60°
▪ The lines BP and CQ at point A
▪ Thus, ΔABC is the required triangle
Quadrilaterals
Types of quadrilaterals
i. Square is a quadrilateral with all four sides of equal length and one of its angles (and hence the other
three) a right angle.
ii. Rectangle is a quadrilateral with its opposite sides of equal length and one of its angles (and hence
the other three) a right angle.
iii. Parallelogram is a quadrilateral with opposite sides equal and therefore parallel.
iv. Rhombus is a quadrilateral with all four sides equal.
v. Trapezium is a quadrilateral with one pair of opposite sides parallel.
vi. Trapezoid is a quadrilateral with all four sides and angles unequal.
Step 3: Draw an arc with B as the center and radius 5 cm, cutting ray BX at C.
Step 4: Draw an arc with C as the center and radius 5 cm.
Step 5: Draw another arc with A as the center and radius 5 cm, cutting the previous arc at D.
Step 6: Join points D, A and D, C. ABCD is the required square.
A C
3 cm O 3 cm
Y
Figure 61: Construct a square whose one diagonal
Construction of Parallelogram
Construction of a parallelogram when both the diagonals and the angle between them are
given.
Construct a parallelogram ABCD in which diagonal AC = 8 cm, diagonal BC = 9.2 cm and the
angle between them is 50°.
In a parallelogram, diagonals bisect each other:
AO = ½ AC = ½ × 8 = 4 cm
BO = ½ BD = ½ × 9.2 = 4.6
cm
Step 1: Draw line segment AC = 8 cm
Step 2: Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC.
Step 3: Construct. DAOX = 50°. Extend XO to Y.
Step 4: With O as the centre and radius equal to 4.6 cm, draw an arc cutting OX at D, and OY at B.
Step 5: Join points A, B, points B, C, points C, D and points A, D. ABCD is the required
parallelogram.
CIRCLES
Definition
A circle is a plane figure bounded by a curved line called the circumference, which is always
equidistant from the center.
PROPERTIES OF A CIRCLE
POLYGONS
Definitions
A polygon is a plane figure bounded by more than four straight sides. Polygons are frequently
referred to have particular names. Some of these are listed below
Polygons
1. A pentagon is a plane figure bounded by five sides
2. A hexagon is a plane figure bounded by six sides
3. A heptagon is a plane figure bounded by seven sides
4. An octagon is a plane figure bounded by eight sides
5. A nonagon is a plane figure bounded by nine sides
6. A decagon is a plane figure bounded by ten sides.
7. A regular polygon is one that has all its sides equal and therefore all its exterior angles
equal and all its interior angles equal.
The diameter of that circle is called the diameter of the polygon.
The diagonal of a polygon is the distance from one corner to the corner furthest away from it.
Figure 68:
67: Regular
Octagonoctagon
To construct a rectangular octagon; given the diameter, i.e, within a given square.
Q C D R
B E
T
A F
P G S
H
Figure 69: Rectangular octagon
There are three fairly simple way of constructing a regular polygon. Two
methods require a simple calculation and the third requires very careful
construction if it is to be exact. All three methods are shown. The constructions
work for any polygon, and a heptagon (seven sides) has been chosen to illustrate
them
Method 1
Method 2
Tangency
A tangent to a circle is a straight line that touches the circle at one point.
Construct the different conditions of tangency
1. Common tangent to two equal circles
2. Common interior tangent to two equal circles
3. Common tangent between two unequal circles
4. Common internal tangent between two unequal circles
Construct the following conditions Inscribed, Circumscribed and Escribed
In this section, we will learn how to construct angles of 600, 300, 900, 450 and 1200 with the using a
ruler and compasses only.
Steps of Construction
Step 1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With centre O and any radius draw an arc PQ with the help of compasses, cutting the ray OA
Steps of Construction:
0
Step 1: Draw ∠AOB = 60 by using the steps mentioned above.
Step 2: With centre O and any convenient radius draw an arc cutting OA and OB at P and Q
respectively.
Step 3: With centre P and radius more than 12(PQ), draw an arc in the interior of ∠AOB.
Step 4: With centre Q and the same radius, as in step III, draw another arc intersecting the arc in step
III at R.
Step 5: Join OR and product it to any point C.
0
Step 6: The angle ∠AOC is the angle of measure 30 .
Steps of Construction:
Step1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With O as centre and any convenient radius, draw an arc, cutting OA at P.
Step 3: With P as centre and the same radius, an arc cutting the arc drawn in step 2 at Q.
Step 4: With Q as centre and the same radius as in steps 2 and 3, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn
in step 2 at R.
Step 5: With Q as centre and the same radius, draw an arc.
Step 6: With R as centre and the same radius, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn in step V at B.
Step 7: Draw OB and produce it to C. ∠AOC is the angle of measure 900.
Steps of Construction:
0
Step 1: Draw ∠AOB = 90 by following the steps given above.
Step 2: Draw OC, the bisector of ∠AOB.
The angle ∠AOC so obtained is the required angle of measure 450.
Steps of Construction:
Step 1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With O as centre and any convenient radius, draw an arc cutting OA at P.
Step 3: With P as centre and the same radius draw an arc, cutting the first arc at Q.
Step 4: With Q as centre and the same radius, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn in step II at R.
Step 5: Join OR and produce it to any point C. ∠AOC so obtained is the angle of measure 1200
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Angle:
Two rays with a common end point form an angle. OA, OB is rays & O is end point.
O B
Types of Angles
In geometry, angles can be classified according to the size (or magnitude) of the angle.
1. Right angle: An angle, whose measure is 90°, is called a right angle. Two lines that meet at
a right angle are said to be perpendicular.
An angle of 360°:
If a ray OA starting from its original position OA, rotates about O, in the anticlockwise direction and
after making a complete revolution it comes back to its original position, we say that it has rotated
through 360 degrees, written as 360°.
A PROTRACTOR
Protractor: The Protractor is a circular or semi-circular tool for measuring angles. The units of
measurement used are degrees. Some protractors are simple half-discs. More advanced protractors
1. Place the notch or center point of your protractor at the point where the sides of the angle meet
(the vertex).
2. Place the protractor so that one of the lines of the angle you want to measure reads zero (that’s
actually 0°).
3. Read the number off the protractor where the second side of the angle meets the protractor.
Bisecting a Line
1. With A as centre and radius more than half of AB, draw arcs, one on each side of AB.
2. With B as centre and the same radius as in step 2, draw arcs cutting the arcs drawn in step
2 at C and E respectively.
3. Draw the line segment with C and E as end-points. Suppose it meets AB at D. Then bisects
the line segment AB.
In the construction industry all drawings are carried out to a British Standard referred to as BS 1192.
Drawing of a component, in addition to providing complete shape description, must also furnish
information regarding the size description. These are provided through the distances between the
surfaces, location of holes, nature of surface finish, type of material, etc. The expression of these
features on a drawing, using lines, symbols, figures and notes is called dimensioning.
Principles of Dimensioning
All drawings require some form of lettering and numbers. The principles to remember are:
They should be legible and clear – especially numbers, as they often have to be read on their own.
They should be of a suitable size and not less than 3mm tall. Title blocks and relative information
are usually larger.
They should be correctly spaced and positioned. Notes and captions should be placed so that they
can be read in the same direction as in the title block. In other worlds it should not be necessary to
turn a drawing on its side to read the information.
Notes should be grouped together and not spread over the drawing.
One of the most important features of any drawing is the border and title block. The border (or
margin) is a line which follows the outer edge of the drawing and is usually 10 or 20mm inside
it. This margin is very important because everything inside it forms part of any contract.
The ‘Title Block’ is locked within the boarder and contains information such as:
A scale can be used to increase the detail of a small object or to accurately represent a large object
on a smaller piece of paper. The majority of scaled work done in the construction industry is to
reduce objects to a smaller more suitable size that will fit on a sheet of paper.
The list below shows the scales used in BS 1192:
Block Plans 1:2500. These show the outlines of buildings and may also indicate roads, railway lines
or rivers.
General Location Drawings 1:200 or 1:100. These drawings can show pipe runs within the building
and the location of radiators and sanitary fixtures.
When details of boiler houses or plant rooms are given the scale may increase to 1:50. This enables
greater detail to be shown. Where particular detail is necessary the scale could be as high as 1:20 or
1:10. This could be in the case of a bracket or support for a piece of equipment.
LOCI
A locus (Plural loci) is the path traced out by a point which moves under given definite conditions
or rules. You may not have been aware of it, but you have met loci many times before. One of the
most common loci is that of a point which moves so that its distance from another fixed point remains
constant: this produces a circle. Another locus that you know is that of a point which moves so that
its distance from a line remains constant: this produces parallel lines.
The problems of loci can take several different forms. One important practical application in building
is in the setting out of curves such as parabolic, hyperbolic and circular curves. Another important
application of loci in engineering is finding the path traced out by points on mechanisms. This may
be simply to see if there is sufficient clearance around a mechanism.
ELLIPSE
Definition
An ellipse is the locus of a point which moves so that distance from a fixed point (called the focus)
bears a constant ratio, always less than 1, to its perpendicular distance from a straight line called the
directrix). An ellipse has two foci and two and two directrices. Figure 3 shows how to draw an ellipse
given the relative positions of and the directrix, and the eccentricity. In this case the focus and the
directrix are 20mm apart and the eccentricity is 4/3
The first point to plot is the one that lies between the focus and the directrix. This is done by dividing
DF in the same ratio as the eccentricity 4:3. The other end of the ellipse, point is found by working
out the simple algebraic sum shown on
The condition for the locus is that it is always ¾ as far from the focus as it is from the directrix. It is
therefore ¾ as far from the directrix as it is from the focus. Thus. If the point is 30mm from F, it is
40\3mm from the directrix; if the point is 20mm from F, it is ¾ x20mm from the directrix; if the
To construct an ellipse when the distance of the focus from the directrix is equal to 50 mm and
eccentricity is 2/3
vi. A scale may now be constructed on the axis (as explained below), which will directly give
the distances in the required ratio
vii. At V, draw a perpendicular VE equal to VF. Draw a line joining C and E.
thus, in triangle CVE, VE/VC =VF/VC=2/3
viii. Mark any point 1 on the axis and through it, draw a perpendicular to meet CE-produced
at 1’ .
ix. With centre F and radius equal to 1-1 ', draw arcs to intersect the perpendicular through 1
at points P1 and P'1. These are the points on the ellipse, because the distance of P1 from
AB is equal to C1,
x. 𝑃1𝐹 = 1 − 1’
and
1 − 1′ 𝑉𝐹 2
= =
𝐶1 𝑉𝐶 3
Similarly, mark points 2, 3 etc. on the axis and obtain points P2 and P'2, P3 and P'3 etc. (x)
Exercise
Draw the ellipse through these points. It is a closed curve having two foci and two
directrices.
The ellipse is drawn by, first determining a number of points through which it is known to pass and
then, drawing a smooth curve through them, either freehand or with a french curve. Larger the
number of points, more accurate the curve will be.
i. Draw the major axis AB and the minor axis CD intersecting each other at O.
As the curve is symmetrical about the two axes, points in the remaining quadrants may be
located by drawing perpendiculars and horizontals from P1, P2 etc. and making each of them
of equal length on both the sides of the two axes. For example, P2x = x P11 and P2y = yP5.
Learning activity
i. Draw horizontal line AB = 100 mm. Take A as centre draw an arc of 80 mm. Similarly B as
centre and the radius equal to 60 mm, draw the arc such that it intersects previously drawn arc
at the point C. Join ABC to complete triangle.
ii. Mark the mid point of AB such that OA = OB = 50 mm. Join OC and extend CO such that CO
= OD.
PARABOLA
Use of parabolic curves is made in arches, bridges, sound reflectors, light reflectors etc.
Mathematically a parabola can be described by an equation y2 =4 ax or x2 = 4a y.
To construct a parabola when the distance of the Focus from the directrix is 50 mm.
Rectangular method
Tangent method
(i) Draw the base AB and the axis ff. (These are taken different from those in method I.)
(ii) Produce ff to O so that EF = FO.
(iii) Join O with A and 8. Divide lines OA and OB into the same number of equal parts, say 8.
(iv) Mark the division-points as shown in the figure.
(iv) Draw lines joining 1 with 1 ', 2 with 2' etc. Draw a curve starting from A and tangent to lines
1-1 ', 2-2' etc. This curve is the required parabola.
Definition
A hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves so that its distance from a fixed point (called the
focus) bears a constant ratio, always greater than 1, to its perpendicular distance from a straight line
(called the directrix).
Figure 45 shows how to draw a hyperbola given the relative positions of the focus and the directrix
and the eccentricity (3/2). The first point to plot is the one that lies between the focus and the directrix.
This is done by dividing the distance between them in the same ratio as the eccentricity.3:2.
The condition for the locus is that it is always 2/3 as far from the directrix as it is from the focus.
Thus, if the point is 15mm from the focus, it is 2/3 × 15𝑚𝑚 from the directrix; if it is 20mm from
the focus, it is 2/3 x 20mm from the directrix. This is continued for as many points as may be required.
It is a curve traced out by a point moving in such a way that the product of its distances from two
fixed lines at right angles to each other is a constant. The fixed lines are called asymptotes.
This curve graphically represents the Boyle's Law, viz. P x V = a, P = pressure, V = volume and a is
constant. It is also useful in design of water channels.
General method of construction of a hyperbola
𝑥2 𝑦2
Mathematically, we can describe a hyperbola by 𝑎2 − 𝑏2 = 1
(figure 44): Construct a hyperbola, from the directrix is 65 mm and eccentricity is f
i. Draw the directrix AB and the axis CD.
ii. Mark the focus F on CD and 65 mm from C.
iii. Divide CF into 5 equal divisions and mark V the vertex, on the second division from C.
𝑉𝐹 3
Thus, eccentricity=𝑉𝐶 = 2
To construct the scale for the ratio draw a line VE perpendicular to CD such that VE = VF.
Join C with E.
𝑉𝐸 𝑉𝐹 3
Thus, in triangle CVE,𝑉𝐶 = 𝑉𝐶 = 2
i. Mark any point 1 on the axis and through it, draw a perpendicular to meet CE-produced at 1
Figure 95
Freehand Sketching
Freehand sketching is one of the effective methods to communicate ideas irrespective of the branch
of study. The basic principles of drawing used in freehand sketching are similar to those used in
drawings made with instruments.
Learning activities
To draw a fine perpendicular to a given horizontal line from a given point within it.
Self-assessment
A. a circumscribed
B. a concentric
C. an eccentric
D. an escribed
E. an inscribed
3. Draw a parabola by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 1:1.
4. Draw a hyperbola by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 2:3.
5. Draw an ellipse by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 3:2.
1. Drawing tools
2. Drawing set
3. Drawing papers
4. Erasers
5. Series of pencils
6. Drawing board
References
1. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing: Plane and Solid Geometry.
Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
2. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd.,
Anand.
3. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age
International Publ., New Delhi.
4. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing. B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
5. Textbook of Engineering Drawing Second Edition K. Venkata Reddy Prof. & HOD of
Mechanical Engineering Dept. C.R. Engineering College
6. https://www.aplustopper.com/construction-of-angles-using-compass-ruler/
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to produce solid
geometry drawings. Knowledge on how to develop and interpret patterns is learnt and exercised in
this learning outcome
Performance Standard
Information sheet
Methods of development
The method to be followed for making the development of a solid depends upon the nature of its
lateral surfaces. Based on the classification of solids, the following are the methods of
development.
i. Parallel-line Development
It is used for developing prisms and single curved surfaces like cylinders in which all the edges /
generators of lateral surfaces are parallel to each other.
Orthographic views
The development of the lateral surface of a cone is a sector of a circle. The radius and length
of the arc are equal to the slant height and circumference of the base of the cone respectively.
The included angle of the sector is given by (r / s) x 360°, where r is the radius of the base of
the cone and s is the true length.
Ducts, pipe joints, smoke stacks, boilers, containers, machine castings etc., involve intersection of
surfaces. Sheet metal work required for the fabrication of the above objects necessitates the
preparation of the development of the joints objects. Orthographic drawings of lines and curves of
intersection of surfaces must be prepared first for the accurate development of objects.
When a prism penetrates another prism, plane surface of one prism intersects the plane surfaces of another prism and hence the
lines of intersection will be straight lines. In these cases, lines on the surface of one of the solids need not necessarily be drawn as
it is done with cylinders. Instead, the points of intersections of the edges with the surface are located by mere inspection. These
points are projected in the other view and the lines of intersection obtained.
Learning activities
i. Divide the circle in the top view into twelve equal parts. Project the division points to the front view and draw the
generators. Mark points a', b' and b'1, c' and c'1 etc. in which the generators are cut.
Cut-off the arc so that it subtends the angle ϴ at the centre and divide it into twelve equal parts.
iv. Step-off with a bow-divider, twelve equal divisions on the arc, each equal to one of the divisions of the base-circle.
(This will give an approximate length of the circumference. Note that the base-circle should not be divided into less than twelve
equal parts.)
v. Join the division-points with 0, thus completing the development of the whole cone with twelve generators shown
vi. The truncated portion of the cone may be deducted from this development by marking the positions of points at which
generators are cut and then drawing a curve through them. For example, generators o'2' and o'12' in the front view are cut
at points b' and b'1 which coincide with each other. The true length of o' b' may be obtained by drawing a line through b',
parallel to the base and cutting o'7' at b". Then o'b" is the true length of o'b'.
vii. Mark points B and B1 on generators O2 and O-12 respectively, such that OB = 0B1 = o' b". Locate all points in the same
way and draw a smooth curve through them. The figure enclosed this curve and the arc is the development of the truncated
cone.
Self-assessment
1. The bounding box method for setting up an isometric drawing helps the drafter ________.
3. In the section view, the areas that would have been in actual contact with the cutting plane are shown with:
A. A cutting plane line
B. Section lining
C. Visible lines
D. Lines and arrows
c) d)
i. Drawing tools
ii. Drawing set
iii. Drawing papers
iv. Erasers
v. Series of pencils
vi. Drawing board
References
1. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing: Plane and Solid Geometry. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd.,
Anand.
©TVET CDACC 2021 249
2. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
3. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International Publ., New Delhi.
4. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing. B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
5. Textbook of Engineering Drawing Second Edition K. Venkata Reddy Prof. & HOD of Mechanical Engineering Dept. C.R.
Engineering College,
4.4 Produce Orthographic and Pictorial Drawings
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to produce orthographic and pictorial drawings.
Performance Standard
i. Symbols and abbreviations are identified and their meaning interpreted according to standard drawing conventions
ii. First and third angle orthographic drawings are interpreted and produced in accordance with the standard conventions
iii. Orthographic elevations are dimensioned in accordance with standard conventions
iv. Isometric drawings are interpreted and produced in accordance with standard conventions
v. Assembly drawing is produced and interpreted in line with the operating standards
Information sheet
Definitions
Projections
The technique of representing an object in a drawn form is referred to as projection. Projection can be divided into pictorial
(3- dimensional) projection and orthographic (2- dimensional) projection. Pictorial projection is further divided into isometric,
©TVET CDACC 2021 250
oblique and perspective projections; while the orthographic projection is divided into 1 st angle and 3rd angle projection is
referred to as projection. Projection can be divided into pictorial (3- dimensional) projection and orthographic (2- dimensional)
projection. Pictorial projection is further divided into isometric, oblique and perspective projections; while the orthographic
projection is divided into 1st angle and 3rd
angle projection.
'ORTHO' means right angle and orthographic means right angled drawing. When the projectors are perpendicular to the plane on
which the projection is obtained, it is known as orthographic projection. It is in two dimensions (2D). It uses multiple views of
the object, from points of view rotated about the object's center through increments of 90°. The views are positioned relative
to each other according to either of two schemes: first- Angle or third-Angle projection. In each, the appearances of views
may be thought of as being projected onto planes that form a transparent "box" around the object.
First-Angle Projection
In first-angle projection, each view of the object is projected in the direction (sense) of sight of the object, onto
the interior walls of the box
In third-angle projection, each view of the object is projected opposite to the direction (sense) of sight, onto the (transparent)
exterior walls of the box in the figure below.
To produce a sectional view, a cutting plane is imagined cutting through the part, as shown in fig. (a). Picture the two halves of the
object pulled apart, exposing the interior construction, as shown in fig. (b). In this case, we will look toward the left half of the object
in the section view. This sectional view replaces the right-side view.
Full Sections
The section produced by cutting through the entire object is called a full Section, as shown in fig. (c) below.
The cutting-plane line is shown as a special pattern. The arrows at the ends of the cutting plane line indicate the direction of sight
for the section view. We can think the cutting-plane line as showing the edge view of the cutting plane.
When a cutting-plane line coincides with a centerline, the cutting-plane line takes precedence.
Figures below show two line patterns used to show the cutting-plane line. Arrowheads indicate the direction in which the cut object
is viewed.
Sectional views often replace standard views. As figures shown, the cutting plane is a frontal plane and appears as a line in the top
view. The arrows at the ends of cutting-plane line point in the direction of sight for front section. The result is called a front section,
or front view in section, since it replaces the front view in the drawing.
A section-lined area is always completely bounded by a visible outline never by a hidden line. The cross hatching in all hatched
areas must be parallel in a sectional view of a single object, along or in assembly.
Cross-hatching patterns, shown in Fig. 7.6 are used to present general material types. Make hatching lines at 45 degrees with
horizontal, unless they look better at a different angle.
In figures above, cross-hatching at 45 degrees with horizontal would be nearly parallel or nearly perpendicular to a prominent feature.
In this case, the hatching appears better drawn at 30 degrees, 60 degrees, or some other angle.
Symmetrical objects can be sectioned using a cutting plane passing halfway through an object, resulting in a half section. A half
section exposes the interior of one half of the object and still shows the exterior of the other half. Half sections are very useful in
undimensioned assembly drawing since they show both internal and external construction on the same view.
In general, hidden lines are omitted from both halves of a half section. However, they may be used in the unsectioned half if necessary
for dimensioning.
Often, only a partial section of a view is needed to expose interior shapes. Such a section, limited by a break line, is called a broken-
out section. In the first figure, a full of half section is not necessary. A broken-out section is sufficient to explain the construction.
In the second figure, a half section would have caused the removal of half the keyway. The keyway is preserved by breaking out
around it. In this case, the section is limited partly by a break line and partly by a centerline (i.e., break-around keyway).
The shape of the cross-section of a bar, arm, spoke, or other elongated object may be shown by means of a revolved section.
Revolved sections are made by assuming a plane perpendicular to the centerline or axis of the bar or other object, and then revolving
the plane through 90 degrees about a centerline at right angles to the axis.
A removed section is a section that is not direct projection from the view containing the cutting plane – it is located somewhere else
in the drawing.
Removed sections
In sectioning irregular objects, we may show features that do not lie in a straight line by offsetting, or bending the cutting plane.
Such a section is called an offset section.
In figure (a) the cutting plane is offset in several places to include the hole at the left end, one of the parallel slots, the rectangular
recess, and one of the holes at the right end.
To avoid a false impression of thickness and solidity, ribs, webs, gear teeth, and other similar flat features are not sectioned, even
though the cutting plane passes along the center plane of the feature.
For example, in figure at right the cutting plane A-A passes through the long dimension of the vertical web, or rib, but as figure a
shows, the web is not section lines. Such thin features should not be section lined, even though the cutting plane passes through
them.
To include in a section certain angled features, the cutting plane may be bent to pass through those features. The plane and features
are then imagined to revolve into the original plane.
For example, in figure below the cutting plane bends to pass through the angled arm and then is aligned to a vertical position, where
it is projected to the sectional view.
If space is limited on the paper or to save drafting time, partial views may be used in connection with sectioning. Figures (a) and (b)
only show half views of the top view. In each case the back half of the object in the circular view is shown to expose the back portion
of the object for viewing in section.
Another method of drawing a partial view is to break out much of the circular view, retaining only those features that are needed for
minimum representation, as shown in figure (c).
Where an intersection is small or unimportant in a section, it is standard practice to disregard the true projection of the figure of
intersection, as shown in a and c. Larger figures of intersection may be projected, as shown in fig. (b), or approximated by circular
arcs, as shown for the smaller hole in fig. (d).
Note that the larger hole K is the same diameter as the vertical hole. In such cases the curves of intersection, or ellipses, appear as
straight lines, as shown.
To shorten a view of an elongated object, whether in section or not, conventional breaks are recommended, as shown below.
Introduction
A drawing which displays the parts of a machine or a machine unit assembled in their relative working positions
is known as assembly drawing.
Layout assembly
This is an assembly drawing showing how the parts are assembled with their basic proportions (dimensions).
Installation assembly
This is prepared for the installation or erection of a machine. This is also sometimes known as an outline assembly.
A complete set of working drawings of a machine comprises of detailed drawings, giving all necessary
information for the production of individual parts and assembly drawing showing the location of each part. The
assembly drawing should be ready before the detailed drawings are accepted as finished and the blue-prints are
made.
General assembly
It comprises of the detailed drawings of the individual parts, sub-assembly and the assembly drawings of the
machine
(i) Selection of views: The main or important view which is usually in section should show all the individual
parts and their relative locations. Additional views are shown only when they add necessary information.
(ii) Sectioning: The parts should be sectioned according to the requirements (i.e. half-section or partial
section) to show important assembly details. Code of the BIS ( SP:46-1988) for general engineering
drawings must be observed
(iii) Dotted lines: The dotted lines should be omitted from the assembly drawing when a proper section is
taken. If the view of a part is drawn by the half-section, then in un section portion of the view, the dotted
lines may be drawn to clarify details of the part.
(iv) Dimensions: The overall dimensions and centre-to centre distances showing the relationship of parts to
the machine as a whole, are sometimes shown.
(v) Detailed dimensions are given on working assembly drawings when the detailed drawings are not
prepared.
Bill of Materials
Bill of materials: Each part of the machine is identified on assembly drawing by the leader line and number,
which are used in the detail drawing and in the bill of material. The height of the number may be
Suggested approach
1. Preparing an assembly form exploded view is easy task as clue to the position and sequence is available
2. For preparing from orthographic view of the individual components some skill is needed
The suggested approach is
(i) Study functional requirements of each component and their inter relationship. • Learn the actual working
of a machine.
(ii) Study carefully the views of each component in the detail drawing and decide the relative location of
each part for the proper functioning of the machine.
(iii) Decide the mating dimensions between two components which are required to be assembled.
(iv) Prepare free-hand sketch of the main view or an important view (generally front-elevation). Add
additional views, if necessary.
(v) Select a suitable scale for the entire assembly drawing.
(vi) Lay out the views of the assembly drawing so that it become easier to understand.
(vii) Prepare the bill of materials.
(viii)Label each component by the leader-line and number it.
Machine drawing
It is pertaining to machine parts or components. It is presented through a number of orthographic views, so that
the size and shape of the component is fully understood. Part drawings and assembly drawings belong to this
classification. An example of a machine drawing is given in the tigure below.
A production drawing, also referred to as working drawing, should furnish all the dimensions, limits and special
finishing processes such as heat treatment, honing, lapping, surface finish, etc., to guide the craftsman on the shop
floor in producing the component. The title should also mention the material used for the product, number of parts
required for the assembled unit, etc. Since a craftsman will ordinarily make one component at a time, it is advisable
to prepare the production drawing of each component on a separate sheet. However, in some cases the drawings
of related components may be given on the same sheet. Figure below represents an example of a production
drawing.
A drawing that shows the various parts of a machine in their correct working locations is an assembly drawing as
shown in the figure below There are several types of such drawings.
Design Assembly Drawing When a machine is designed, an assembly drawing or a design layout is first drawn to
clearly visualise the performance, shape and clearances of various parts comprising the machine.
It is usually made for simple machines, comprising of a relatively smaller number of simple parts. All the
dimensions and information necessary for the construction of such parts and for the assembly of the parts are given
directly on the assembly drawing. Separate views of specific parts in enlargements, showing the fitting of parts
together, may also be drawn in addition to the regular assembly drawing.
Many assemblies such as an automobile, lathe, etc., are assembled with many pre-assembled components as well
as individual parts. These pre-assembled units are known as sub-assemblies. A sub-assembly drawing is an
On this drawing, the location and dimensions of few important parts and overall dimensions of the assembled unit
are indicated. This drawing provides useful information for assembling the machine, as this drawing reveals all
parts of a machine in their correct working position.
Special assembly drawings are prepared for company catalogues. These drawings show only the pertinent details
and dimensions that would interest the potential buyer. Fig. 1.4 shows a typical catalogue drawing, showing the
overall and principal dimensions. Assembly Drawings for instruction manuals These drawings in the form of
assembly drawings, are to be used when a machine, shipped away in assembled condition, is knocked down in
order to check all the parts before reassembly and installation elsewhere. These drawings have each component
numbered on the job. Figure below shows a typical example of such a drawing.
Main switch(8)
Clamping handle(17)
Lamp switch(9)
In some cases, exploded pictorial views are supplied to meet instruction manual requirements. These drawings
generally find a place in the parts list section of a company instruction manual. Figure shows drawings of this type
which may be easily understood even by those with less experience in the reading of drawings; because in these
exploded views, the parts are positioned in the sequence of assembly, but separated from each other.
Rough castings and forgings are sent to the machine shop for finishing operation. Since the machinist is not
interested in the dimensions and information of the previous stages, a machine shop shown in figure below.
Schematic assembly drawing.
Pictorial Drawing
Isometric Drawing
• Cavalier
• Cabinet
The following are the relations between the lines in isometric projection
• The lines that are parallel on the object are parallel in the isometric projection.
• Vertical lines on the object appear vertical in the isometric projection.
• Horizontal lines on the object are drawn at an angle of 3 0° with the horizontal in the isometric
projection.
• A line parallel to an isometric axis is called an isometric line and it is fore shortened to 82%.
• A line which is not parallel to any isometric axis is called non-isometric line and the extent of
foreshortening of non-isometric lines are different if their inclinations with the vertical planes are
different.
• Box construction
• Four center method
Oblique Drawing
In oblique projection, the front face of the object appears in its true size and shape, as it is placed parallel to the
picture plane. The receding lines representing the other two faces are usually drawn at 30°, 45° or 60° to the
horizontal, 45° being the most common practice.
Oblique projections are classified as cavalier, cabinet.
i. Enclose the circle in a square 1-2-3-4 and draw diagonals. Also draw lines YA horizontally and XA
vertically.
ii. To draw the isometric view of the square 1-2-3-4
iii. Mark the mid points of the sides of the square as B 0 F and H.
iv. Locate the points X and Y on lines 1-4 and 1-2 respectively.
v. Through the point X, draw A X parallel to line 1-2 to get point A on the diagonal 1-3. The point A can
be obtained also by drawing Y A through the point Y and parallel to the line 1-4.
vi. Similarly obtain other points C, E and G
vii. Draw a smooth curve passing through all the points to obtain the required isometric view of the
horizontal circular plane.
viii. Similarly obtain isometric view of the vertical circular plane
As already mentioned, angles, circles and irregular curves on the surfaces, parallel to the picture plane, appear in
true size and shape. However, when they are located on receding faces, the construction methods, similar to
isometric drawing may be followed.
For example, the method of representing a circle on an oblique face may be carried out by offset method and the
four center method cannot be used. In case of cabinet oblique, the method and the result is the same as that of
isometric drawing, since the angle of the receding axis can be the same as that of isometric axis.
Shows circles of same size in both isometric and oblique projections using 45° for the receding axis for oblique
projections.
Curved features of all sorts on the receding faces or inclined surfaces may be plotted either by the off-set or co-
ordinate methods as shown in the figure below.
i. The following figures are in isometric view. Draw the orthographic views in first angle.
A pentagonal pyramid of base side 40 mm and axis length 80mm is resting on HP on its base with one of its base
side parallel to VP. It is cut by a plane inclined at 30° to HP and perpendicular to VP and is bisecting the axis.
Draw its front view, sectional top view, and the true shape of section.
Draw the projection of the pyramid in the given position. The top view is drawn and the front view is projected.
To draw the cutting plane, front view and sectional top view
1. Draw the VT of the cutting plane inclined at 30° to XY line and passing through the midpoint of J the axis.
2. As a result of cutting, new comers 1', 2', 3', 4' and 5' are obtained on slant edges a '0', b '0', c '0', d'o' and e '0'
respectively.
4. Project the new points to get 1,2,3,4 and 5 in the top view on the respective slant edges.
5. Note that 2' is extended horizontally to meet the extreme slant edge a ' 0 ' at m', it is projected to meet ao in top
view at m. Considering 0 as centre, om as radius, draw an arc to get 2 on bo
Learning activity 3
Assemble the following parts and Draw full sectional view of the assembly for the following:
Self-assessment
A. An orthographic drawing
B. An isometric drawing
C. A perspective drawing
D. An oblique drawing
5. This drawing is an example of:
A. An orthographic drawing
B. An isometric drawing
10.0
30.0
100.0
25.0 70.0 40.0
A. 30
B. 70
C. 10
D. 20
1. Drawing tools
2. Drawing set
3. Drawing papers
4. Erasers
5. Series of pencils
6. Drawing board
References
1. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing: Plane and Solid Geometry. Charotar Publ.
House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
2. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
3. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International Publ.,
New Delhi.
4. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing . B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to apply CAD packages.
In this learning outcome AutoCAD has been selected to be the dominant CAD software to be learnt.
Performance Standard
Information sheet
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the use of an application to help create or optimize a design. Therefore, CAD
software allows engineers, architects, designers, and others to create precision drawings or technical illustrations
in 2D or 3D. This category of software can increase productivity, improve quality, and maximize organization by
creating a documentation database for manufacturing.
CAD software has a host of applications, including the design of manufacturing parts, electronic circuit boards,
prototypes for 3D printers, and buildings. Typically, this software uses either traditional vector-based graphics or
raster graphics which show how finished objects would actually look.
CAD software can also facilitate the flow from the design process to the manufacturing process. This software can
simulate the movement of a part through the manufacturing process in three dimensions. As this software becomes
ever better at simulating the manufacturing process, specialized software for designing the manufacturing process
and controlling machine tools called Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) has become integrated with CAD as
a single platform.
AutoCAD
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Basics
Viewing
Pan and zoom in a drawing, and control the order of overlapping objects.
Geometry
Create basic geometric objects such as lines, circles, and hatched areas.
Precision
Layers
Properties
You can assign properties such as color and linetype to individual objects, or as default properties assigned to
layers.
Modifying
Perform editing operations such as erase, move, and trim on the objects in a drawing.
Blocks
Insert symbols and details into your drawings from commercial online sources or from your own designs.
Layouts
Display one or more scaled views of your design on a standard-size drawing sheet called a layout.
Create notes, labels, bubbles, and callouts. Save and restore style settings by name
Dimensions
Printing
Output a drawing layout to a printer, a plotter, or a file. Save and restore the printer settings for each layout.
Review the basic AutoCAD controls. After you launch AutoCAD, click the Start Drawing button to begin a new
drawing.
At the heart of AutoCAD is the Command window, which is normally docked at the bottom of the
application window. The Command window displays prompts, options, and messages.
You can enter commands directly in the Command window instead of using the ribbon, toolbars, and
menus.
When several options are available, such as in the example below, make your choice by clicking the
correct option or using the arrow keys and then pressing Enter or the Spacebar to confirm your selection.
Most people use a mouse as their pointing device, but other devices have equivalent controls.
Here’s a Tip:
Depending on where your cursor is located, different menus will display relevant commands and options.
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New Drawings
You can easily conform to industry or company standards by specifying settings for text, dimensions,
linetypes, and several other features. For example, this backyard deck design displays two different
dimension styles.
All these settings can be saved in a drawing template file. Click New to choose from several drawing
Template files:
For imperial drawings that assume your units are inches, use acad.dwt or acadlt.dwt.
For metric units that assume your units are millimeters, use acadiso.dwt or acadltiso.dwt.
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The “Tutorial” template files in the list are examples of the architectural or mechanical design templates
using both imperial (i) and metric (m) measurements.
Most companies use drawing template files that conform to company standards, and they will often use
different drawing template files depending on the project or client.
You can save any drawing (.dwg) file as a drawing template (.dwt) file. You can also open any existing
drawing template
If you work independently, you can develop your drawing template files to suit your working preferences,
adding settings for additional features as you become familiar with them.
To modify an existing drawing template file, click Open, specify Drawing Template (*.dwt) in the Select
File dialog box, and choose the template file. Important:
If your company has already established a set of drawing template files, check with your CAD manager
before modifying any of them.
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Units
When you first start a drawing, you need to decide what the length of one unit represents an inch, a foot,
a centimeter, a kilometer, or some other unit of length. For example, the objects below could represent
two buildings that are each 125 feet long, or they could represent a section from a mechanical part that is
measured in millimeters.
After you decide what unit of length that you want to use, the UNITS command lets you control several
unit display settings including the following:
Format (or Type): For example, a decimal length of 6.5 can be set to display as a fractional length of 6-
1/2 instead.
Precision: For example, a decimal length of 6.5 can be set to display as 6.50, 6.500, or 6.5000.
If you plan to work in feet and inches, use the UNITS command to set the unit type to Architectural, and
then when you create objects, specify their lengths in inches. If you plan to use metric units, leave the unit
type set to Decimal. Changing the unit format and precision does not affect the internal precision of your
drawing, it affects only how lengths, angles, and coordinates are displayed in the user interface
Here’s a Tip:
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If you need to change the UNITS settings, make sure that you save the drawing as a drawing template file
(.dwt). Otherwise, you will need to change the UNITS
Model Scale
Always create your models at full size (1:1 scale). The term model refers to the geometry of your design.
A drawing includes the model geometry along with the views, notes, dimensions, callouts, tables, and the
title block displayed in the layout.
You can specify the scaling that is necessary to print a drawing on a standard-sized sheet later, when you
create the layout.
Recommendations
To open Help for information about the command in progress, press F1.
To see various options, select an object and right-click or right-click a user interface element.
For example GUIDE TO AUTOCAD BASICS: PRINTING e, if you click in the drawing area before
entering a command, you will see something like the following:
Here’s a Tip:
Viewing
Zoom in on a drawing to better control the order of overlapping objects. The easiest way to change your
view is by using the mouse wheel.
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Zoom in or out by rolling the wheel.
Pan a view in any direction by holding the wheel down while moving your mouse.
Zoom in on a specific area for greater detail holding your mouse over the area and clicking the wheel
twice.
Here’s a Tip:
When you zoom in or out, the location of the cursor is important. Think of your
cursor as a magnifying glass. For example, if you position the cursor in the upper-right area of the floor
plan as shown below, zooming in magnifies the dressing room without shifting the view.
NOTE: If you cannot zoom or pan any more, type REGEN in the Command window and press Enter.
This command regenerates the drawing display and resets the extents available for panning and z
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Overlapping Objects
If you create objects that overlap, you might need to change which objects are displayed on top or in front
of the others. For example, if you want the yellow highway to cross the blue river rather than the other
way around,
You can access several draw order options from the Modify panel on the ribbon. Click to expand the
Modify panel, and then click the down-arrow as shown below.
The draw order options that are listed include sending all hatches to the back, all text to the front, and so
on.
Geometry
Create basic geometric objects such as lines, circles, and hatched areas.
You can create many different types of geometric objects in AutoCAD, but you only need to know a few
of them for most 2D drawings.
NOTE: If you want to simplify the display while creating geometric objects, press F12 to turn off dynamic
input.
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Lines
The line is the most basic and common object in AutoCAD drawings. To draw a line, click the Line tool.
Alternatively, you can type LINE or just L in the Command window, and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
To specify the starting point for this line, you would type in the coordinates 0,0. It is a good idea to locate
one corner of your model at 0,0, which is called the origin point. To locate additional points, you could
specify additional X,Y coordinate
locations in the drawing area, however more efficient methods for specifying points are available, and will
be presented in the Precision topic.
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After you specify the next point, the LINE command automatically repeats itself, and it keeps
prompting you for additional points.
The user coordinate system (UCS) icon indicates the direction of the positive X and Y axis for any
coordinates that you enter, and it also defines the horizontal and vertical directions in a drawing. In some
2D drawings, it can be convenient to click, drag, and rotate the UCS to change the origin point, and the
horizontal and vertical directions.
Grid Display
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Some people like working with grid lines as a reference, while others prefer working in a blank area. To
turn off the grid display, press F7. Even with the grid turned off, you can force your cursor to snap to grid
increments by pressing F9.
Circles
The default option of the CIRCLE command requires you to specify a center point and a radius.
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The other circle options are available from the drop-down:
Alternatively, you can also enter CIRCLE or just C in the Command window and click to choose an
option. If you do, you can specify a center point, or you can click one of the highlighted command options
as shown below.
Circles can be useful as reference geometry. For example, you can see that the two doors in the illustration
can interfere with each other.
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Polylines and Rectangles
A polyline is a connected sequence of line or arc segments that is created as a single object.
Continuous paths for which you need to know the total length
Polylines can have a constant width or they can have different starting and ending widths. After you
specify the first point of the polyline, you can use the Width option to specify the width of all subsequently
created segments. You can change the width value at any time, even as you create new segments.
Here is an example of a printed
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Polylines and Rectangles
Polylines can have different starting and ending widths for each segment as shown here:
Simply click two diagonal points for the rectangle as illustrated. If you use this method, turn on grid snap
(F9) for precision.
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In AutoCAD, a hatch is a single, compound object that covers a specified area with a pattern of lines, dots,
shapes, a solid fill color, or a gradient fill.
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When you start the HATCH command, the ribbon temporarily displays the Hatch Creation tab. On this
tab, you can choose from over 70 industry-standard imperial and ISO hatch patterns along with many
specialized options.
The simplest procedure is to choose a hatch pattern and scale from the ribbon, and click within any area
that is completely enclosed by objects. You must specify the scale factor for the hatch in order to control
its size and spacing.
After you create a hatch, you can move the bounding objects to adjust the hatch area, or you can delete
one or more of the bounding objects to create partially bounded hatches:
Here’s a Tip:
If you set a solid or gradient fill hatch pattern, also consider setting a transparency level
Here are some examples of how you can use solid-fill hatches:
Here’s a Tip:
If you need to align the pattern in a hatch, which might be the case with the decking boards above, use the
Set Origin option to specify an alignment point.
Precision
Polar tracking: Snap to the closest preset angle and specify a distance along that angle.
Locking angles: Lock to a single, specified angle and specify a distance along that angle.
Object snaps: Snap to precise locations on existing objects, such as an endpoint of a polyline, the
midpoint of a line, or the center point of a circle.
Coordinate entry: Specify a location by its Cartesian or polar coordinates, either absolute or relative.
The three most commonly used features are polar tracking, locking angles, and object snaps.
Polar Tracking
When you need to specify a point, such as when you create a line, you can use polar tracking to guide the
movement of your cursor in certain directions.
For example, after you specify the first point of the line below, move your cursor to the right, and then
enter a distance in the Command window to specify a precise horizontal length for the line.
By default, polar tracking is turned on and guides your cursor in a horizontal or vertical direction (0 or 90
degrees).
Locking Angles
If you need to draw a line at a specified angle, you can lock the angle for the next point. For example, if
the second point of a line needs to be created at a 45 degree angle, you would enter ‘<45’ in the Command
window.
After you move your cursor in the desired direction along the 45-degree angle, you can enter the length
of the line.
Object Snaps
By far, the most important way for you to specify precise locations on objects is to use object snaps. In
the following illustration, several different kinds of object snaps are represented by markers.
Object snaps become available during a command whenever AutoCAD prompts you to specify a point.
For example, if you start a new line and move your cursor near the endpoint of an existing line, the cursor
will automatically snap to it.
Set Default Object Snaps
Enter the OSNAP command to set the default object snaps, which are also called “running” object snaps.
For example, you might find it useful to turn on the Midpoint object snap by default.
Recommendations
At any prompt for a point, you can specify a single object snap that overrides all other object snap
settings. Hold down Shift, right-click in the drawing area, and choose an object snap from the Object Snap
menu. Then move the cursor to select a location on an object.
Make sure that you zoom in close enough to avoid mistakes. In a densely populated model, snapping to
the wrong object will result in an error that can propagate throughout your model.
Object Snap Tracking
During a command, you can align points both horizontally and vertically from object snap locations. In
the following illustration, you first hover over endpoint 1 and then hover over endpoint
2. When you move your cursor near location 3, the cursor locks into the horizontal and vertical location
shown.
You can now finish creating the line, circle, or other object that you were creating from that location.
Recheck your geometry to catch mistakes early. Enter the DIST command (or just DI) to measure the
distance between any two points in your model.
For example, you might need to find the clearance between two points shown, which might represent the
corner of a wall and a small table, or perhaps a 2D section of a plastic part and a wire.
After you enter DIST, click the endpoint on the corner (1). Next, hold down Shift as you right-click, and
then choose Perpendicular from the object snap menu. Finally, click the circle (2).
Handy Function Key Reference
All keyboard function keys have assignments in AutoCAD. The ones that are most commonly turned on
and off are indicated with a key.
F11 Object Snap Tracking Tracks the cursor horizontally or vertically from object snap locations.
Layers
When a drawing becomes visually complex, you can hide objects that you currently do not need to see.
In the drawing below, the doors and electrical wiring were temporarily hidden by hiding their layers.
Layers
You gain this level of control by organizing the objects in your drawing on layers that are associated with
a specific function or purpose. It might be helpful to think of layers as clear plastic sheets:
Enforce linetype, color, and other property standards for each layer
Layer Controls
To see how a drawing is organized, use the LAYER command to open the Layer Properties Manager.
You can either enter LAYER or LA in the Command window, or you can click the Layer Properties tool
on the ribbon.
Here’s what the Layer Properties Manager displays for this drawing.
As indicated, layer 10 WALLS is the current layer. All new objects are automatically placed on that layer.
In the list of layers, the green check next to layer 10 WALLS indicates that it is the current layer.
In the column labeled On, notice that the light bulb icons for two layers are dark. This indicates that these
layers were turned off to hide the doors and electrical wiring in the floor plan.
Notice that each layer name starts with a two-digit number. This convention makes it easy to control the
order of the layers because their order does not depend on the alphabet.
Here’s a Tip:
For complex drawings, you might want to consider a more elaborate layer naming standard. For example,
layer names could begin with 3 digits followed by a naming code that accommodates multiple floors in a
building, project numbers, sets of survey and property data, and so on.
Practical Recommendations
Layer 0 is the default layer that exists in all drawings and has some esoteric properties. Instead of using
this layer, it’s best to create your own layers with meaningful names.
Any drawing that contains at least one dimension object automatically includes a reserved layer named
Defpoints.
Create a layer for behind-the-scenes construction geometry, reference geometry, and notes that you
usually do not need to see or print.
Create a layer for layout viewports. Information about layout viewports is covered in the Layouts topic.
Create a layer for all hatches and fills. This lets you to turn them all on or off in one action.
Layer Settings
The following are the most commonly used layer settings in the Layer Properties Manager. Click the icon
to turn the setting on and off.
Turn off Layers: This will help reduce the visual complexity of your drawing while you work
Freeze Layers: Freeze layers that you do not need to access for a while. Freezing layers is similar to turning
them off, but improves performance in very large drawings.
Lock Layers: Locking layers prevents accidental changes to the objects on those layers.
Controls in the Layer Properties Manager
To create a new layer, click the button shown and enter the name of the new layer. To make a different
layer the current one, click the layer and then click the indicated button.
The Layer Properties Manager takes up a lot of space, and you may not always need to access all the
options. For quick access to the most common layer controls, use the controls on the ribbon. When no
objects are selected, the Layers panel on the Home tab displays the name of the current layer as shown
here.
Occasionally, check to make sure that the objects you create will be on the correct layer. It’s easy to forget
to do this, but it’s also easy to set. Click the drop-down arrow to display a list of layers, and then click a
layer on the list to make it the current layer. You can also click on any layer setting icon in the list to
It’s important to either establish or conform to a company-wide layer standard. With a layer standard,
drawing organization will be more logical, consistent, compatible, and maintainable over time and across
departments. Layer standards are essential for team projects.
If you create a standard set of layers and save them in a drawing template file, those layers will be available
when you start a new drawing, and you can start working immediately. Additional information about
drawing template files is presented in the Basics topic.
Properties
You can assign properties such as color and linetype to individual objects, or as default properties assigned
to layers.
In the following drawing, the walls, exterior stone facing, doors, fixtures, cabinetry, HVAC, electrical,
and text were created using different colors to help differentiate them.
The Properties palette is an essential tool. You can open it with the PROPERTIES command (enter PR
in the Command window), you can press Ctrl + 1, or you can click the tiny arrow in the Properties panel
on the Home tab whichever you prefer.
GUIDETOAUTOCADBASICS:PROPERTIES
The Properties palette displays a list of all the important property settings. You can click any of the
available fields to change the current settings. In the following example, if no objects are selected, the
current color will be changed from ByLayer to Red and the UCS icon will be turned off.
Verify and Change Object Properties
You can use the Properties palette to verify and change property settings for selected objects. If you click
an object in your drawing to select it, here is what you might see in the Properties palette.
Notice that the current properties for the selected object are displayed in the palette. You can change any
of these properties by clicking and changing the setting.
A property that is set to “ByLayer” inherits its setting from the layer. In the previous example, the objects
that were created on the 20 ELECTRICAL layer are purple because that is the default color of the objects
on that layer.
If you select several objects, only their common properties are listed in the Properties palette. If you
change one of these properties, all the selected objects will change in one operation. Selecting objects is
covered in more detail in the Modifying topic
The Properties panel works the same way as the Properties palette. When you select an object, the current
property settings are replaced by the properties assigned to the selected object, and you can use this panel
to easily change the properties of one or more selected objects.
For a fast way to copy the properties of a selected object to other objects, use the Match Properties tool,
or enter MATCHPROP or MA in the Command window.
Select the source object, and then select all of the objects that you want to modify.
Linetypes
Dashed and other non-continuous linetypes are assigned from the Properties panel. You must first load a
linetype before you can assign it.
Click Load. Choose one or more linetypes that you want to use. Notice that dashed (non-continuous)
linetypes come in several preset sizes.
Specify a different “global scale factor” for all linetypes—the larger the value, the longer the dashes and
spaces. Click OK.
Once you’ve loaded the linetypes that you plan to use, you can select any object and specify a linetype
from the Properties panel or the Properties palette. Alternatively, you can specify a default linetype for
any layer in the Layer
Properties Manager.
Lineweights
The Lineweight property provides a way to display different thicknesses for selected objects. The
thickness of the lines remains constant regardless of the scale of the view. In a layout, lineweights are
always displayed and printed in real-world units. Lineweights can also be assigned from the Properties
panel.
You can leave the lineweight set to ByLayer, or you can specify a value that overrides the layer’s
lineweight. In some cases, the lineweight previews look the same because they are displayed in
approximated pixel widths on a monitor. However, they will print at the correct thickness.
To control the display of lineweights, click the Lineweight Settings button at the bottom of the lineweight
list. In the Lineweight Settings dialog box, you can choose whether you want to display or hide
lineweights.
Regardless of the display setting, lineweights will always be printed at the correct scale.
Here’s a Tip:
It’s usually best to leave lineweights turned off while you work. Heavy lineweights can obscure nearby
objects when you use object snaps. You might want to turn
Modifying
Perform editing operations such as erase, move, and trim on the objects in a drawing.
The most common modifying tools are located on the Modify panel of the Home tab. Take a minute to
look through them.
Erase
To erase an object, use the ERASE command. You can enter E in the Command window, or click the
Erase tool. When you see the cursor change to a square pickbox, click each object that you want to erase,
and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
With a crossing selection, any objects within or touching the green area are selected.
With a window selection, only the objects completely contained within the blue area are selected.
The result is called the selection set, which is the set of objects that will be processed by a command.
Here’s a Tip:
You can easily remove objects from the selection set. For example, if you select 42 objects, and two of
them should not have been
selected, hold down Shift and then select the two that you want to remove. Then, press Enter or the
Spacebar, or right click to end the selection process.
Here’s how you would use the COPY command to lay out a row of decorative tiles. Starting with a
polyline that represents its shape, you need to make copies that are 1/8” apart.
Click the Copy tool or enter CP in the Command window to start the command. From here, you can
choose between two methods, depending on which is more convenient. You will use these two methods
frequently.
The second tile needs to be a total of 9-7/8” + 1/8” = 10” to the right of the original tile. Start by selecting
the tile, pressing Enter or the Spacebar to end your selection, and clicking anywhere in the drawing area
(1). This point does not have to be located on the tile.
Next, move your cursor to the right, relying on the polar tracking angle to keep the direction horizontal,
and then enter 10 for the distance. Press Enter or the Spacebar a second time to end the command.
Another method, one that you will often use when you don’t want to add numbers together, requires two
steps. Enter the COPY command and select the tile as before, but this time click the two endpoints as
shown. These two points also define a distance and direction.
Next, to add the 1/8” space between the tiles, click the Move tool or enter M in the Command window.
The MOVE command is similar to the COPY command. Select the newly copied tile, and press Enter or
the Spacebar. As before, click anywhere in the drawing area and move your cursor to the right. Enter 1/8
or .125 for the distance.
Here’s a Tip:
The two points that define the distance and direction don’t need to be located on the object that you want
to copy. You can use two points specified anywhere in your
You can use the two-point method as a repeating sequence. Let’s say that you want to make more copies
of the circle at the same horizontal distance. Enter the COPY command and select the circle as shown.
Then, using the Center object snap, click the center of circle 1, followed by the center of circle 2, and so
on.
For larger numbers of copies, try experimenting with the Array option of the COPY command. For
example, here’s a linear arrangement of deep foundation piles. From a base point, you specify number of
copies and the center-to-center distance.
Offset
Most models include a lot of parallel lines and curves. Creating them is easy and efficient with the
OFFSET command. Click the OFFSET tool or enter O in the Command window
Select the object (1), specify the offset distance, and click to indicate on which side of the original that
you want the result (2). Here is an example of offsetting a polyline.
Trim and Extend
A popular technique is to use the OFFSET command in combination with the TRIM and EXTEND
commands. In the Command window, you can enter TR for TRIM or EX for EXTEND. Trimming and
extending are some of the most commonly used operations.
In the following illustration, you want to extend the lines that represent the steps for this deck. Enter the
EXTEND command, select the boundary, and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
Pressing Enter or the Spacebar indicates that you’ve finished selecting the boundaries, and that you’re
now ready to select the objects to be extended. Here’s a Tip:
A faster method is to press Enter or the Spacebar right away instead of selecting any boundary objects.
The result is that all objects are available as possible boundaries
Next, select the objects to be extended (near the ends to be extended), and then press Enter or the Spacebar
to end the command.
As you can see, the selected lines are extended to the boundary.
The TRIM command follows the same steps, except that when you select the objects to trim, you select
the portions to trim away.
Mirror
The following illustration comes from a tile project. The walls in this residential bathroom are flattened
out to be able to lay out the tile pattern and estimate the number of tiles needed.
You can save a lot of work by taking advantage of the symmetry between the left and right walls. All you
need to do is create the tiles on one wall and then mirror the wall across the center of the room. In the
example below, begin the MIRROR command (or enter
2) to select the geometry on the right wall, press Enter or the Spacebar, and then specify a mirror line (3
and 4) corresponding to the centerline of the bathroom.
Finally, Stretch
You can stretch most geometric objects. This lets you lengthen and shorten parts of your model. For
example, this model might be a gasket or the design for a public park.
Use the STRETCH command (or enter S in the Command window) and select the objects with a crossing
selection as shown below (1 and 2). The crossing selection is mandatory— only the geometry that is
crossed by the crossing selection is stretched. Then click anywhere in the drawing area (3), move the
cursor to the right, and enter 50 as the distance. This distance might represent millimeters or feet.
To shorten the model by a specified amount, you’d move your cursor to the left instead.
Fillet
The FILLET command (enter F in the Command window) creates a rounded corner by creating an arc
that is tangent to two selected objects. Notice that the fillet is created relative to where you select the
objects.
You can create a fillet between most types of geometric objects, including lines, arcs, and polyline
segments.
Here’s a Tip:
If you specify 0 (zero) as the radius of the fillet (imagine a circle shrinking to a radius of 0), the result
trims or extends the selected objects to a sharp corner.
Explode
The EXPLODE command (enter X in the Command window) disassociates a compound object into its
component parts. You can explode objects such as polylines, hatches, and blocks (symbols).
After you explode a compound object, you can modify each resulting individual object.
Edit Polylines
You can choose from several useful options when you want to modify a polyline. The PEDIT command
(enter PE in the Command window) is located on the drop-down list of the Modify panel.
Join two polylines into a single polyline if they share a common endpoint
Convert lines and arcs into a polyline—simply enter PEDIT and select the line or arc
Here’s a Tip:
In some cases, the easiest method to modify a polyline is to explode it, make the modifications, and then
turn the objects back into a polyline using the Join option of the PEDIT command.
Grips
Grips are displayed when you select an object without starting a command. Grips are often handy
for light editing. For example, the line below accidentally snapped to the wrong endpoint. You can
select the misaligned line, click on a grip and then click to specify the correct location.
By default, when you click a grip, you automatically start in **STRETCH** mode as indicated in the
Command window. If you want to explore other ways of editing
Blocks
Insert symbols and details into your drawings from commercial online sources or from your own designs.
In AutoCAD, a block is a collection of objects that are combined into a single named object. The following
are some sample blocks at various scales.
Some of these blocks are realistic representations of objects, some are symbols, and one of them is an
architectural title block for a D-size drawing.
Insert a Block
Typically, each of these blocks is an individual drawing file, perhaps saved in a folder with similar drawing
files. When you need to insert one into your current drawing file, use the INSERT command (or enter I
in the Command window).
Insert a Block
The first time you insert the drawing as a block, you must click Browse to locate the drawing file. Make
sure you organize your blocks into easy-to-find folders.
Once inserted, the block definition is stored in your current drawing. From then on, you can choose it from
the Name drop- down list without needing to click the Browse button.
Here’s a Tip:
The default settings in the Insert dialog box are usually acceptable. After you choose the block name, click
OK, and then specify its location in your drawing. You can rotate it later, if necessary.
Notice that when you insert a block, it is attached to your cursor at the point indicated. This location is
called the insertion point. By default, the insertion point is the origin point (0,0) of the original drawing.
After inserting the block, you can select it and a grip appears. You can easily move and rotate this block
using this grip.
In the following example, a drawing file is inserted into the current drawing to provide a standard detail
view.
NOTE: Inserting a drawing file as a block provides a static reference to the specified drawing. For a
reference that automatically updates, you can attach the drawing with the External References palette
(XREF command) instead.
Instead of creating a drawing file to be inserted as a block, you might want to create a block definition
directly in your current drawing. Use this method if you do not plan to insert the block into any other
drawing. In that case, use the BLOCK command to create the block definition.
For example, this is how you could create a module for a cubicle design.
Select the objects that you created for the block (click 1 and 2).
You can enter the information for steps 3, 4, and 5 into the Block Definition dialog box in any order.
Create a Block Definition (continued)
After creating the block definition, you can insert, copy, and rotate the block as needed.
Using the EXPLODE command, you can explode a block into its component objects if you need to make
changes. In the illustration below, the cubicle on the right was exploded and modified.
In this example, you would probably create a new block definition from the objects in the exploded block.
Layouts
Display one or more scaled views of your design on a standard- size drawing sheet called a layout.
After you finish creating a model at full size, you can switch to a paper space layout to create scaled views
of the model, and to add notes, labels, and dimensions. You can also specify different linetypes and line
widths for display in paper space.
After paper space was introduced, you could click a layout tab to access a space designed specifically for
layouts and scaling. In the following illustration, paper space is active. There are currently only two objects
in paper space: a drawing border block, and a single layout viewport, which displays a view of model
space.
Four Methods for Scaling
There are four different methods in AutoCAD that are used to scale views, notes, labels, and dimensions.
Each method has its advantages depending on how the drawing will be used.
The Original Method: You create geometry, annotate, and print from model space.
Dimensions, notes, and labels must all be scaled in reverse. You set the dimension scale to the inverse of
the plot scale. With this method, scaling requires a little math. For example, a common scale used in
architecture is 1/4” = 1’-0” which is 1:48 scale. If a note is to be printed 1/4” high, then it must be created
48 times as large, or 12” high in model space. The same scale factor also applies to dimensions, and an
ARCH D drawing border at that scale is 144 feet long. When the drawing is printed as a D-size sheet,
everything scales down to the correct size.
The Layout Method: You create geometry and annotate in model space, and print from the layout. Set
the dimension scale to 0 and the dimensions will scale automatically.
The Annotative Method: You create geometry in model space, create annotative dimensions, notes, and
labels (using a special annotative style) in model space from the layout, and you print from the layout.
Annotative objects display only in layout viewports that share
NOTE: Many AutoCAD drawings were created with this method, and many companies still use it. Once
everything is set up, the method works well for 2D drawings with single views and inserted details.
the same scale. The dimension scale is automatically set to 0 and all annotative objects scale automatically.
The Trans-Spatial Method: You create geometry in model space, create annotations in paper space on
a layout with dimension scale set to 1, and you print from the layout. This is arguably the easiest, most
direct method, and it is the method of choice for this guide.
Talk to other AutoCAD users in your discipline about these four methods and why they chose the method
that they use.
The first thing you should do when you access a layout tab (1) is right-click the tab (2) and rename it (3)
to something more specific than Layout 1. For a D-size layout, ARCH D or ANSI D might be good
choices.
Next, open the Page Setup Manager (4) to change the paper size displayed in the layout tab.
NOTE: You might be wondering why there are two entries in the list for every sheet size. This is because
some printers and plotters do not recognize the drawing orientation setting.
Layout Viewports
A layout viewport is an object that is created in paper space to display a scaled view of model space. You
can think of it as a closed-circuit TV monitor that displays part of model space. In the illustration, model
space is active and accessible from within the current layout viewport
In a layout, when model space is active, you can pan and zoom, and anything else that you could do on
the Model tab. For example, let’s say that you created a backyard deck design in model space, and now
you want to lay out and print your design from a layout tab.
The view in the layout viewport is not yet set to the correct scale.
Important:
You can switch between paper space and model space by double-clicking inside or outside the layout
viewport.
NOTE: You can use the MVIEW (make view) command to create additional layout viewports in paper
space. With several layout viewports, you can display several views of model space at the same or at
different scales.
Here are the steps to follow if you use the trans-spatial method of annotating your drawing:
Click the layout tab. If you started the drawing with your own custom drawing template file, several tasks
might already have been completed: the layout might already be set to
D-size, and the title block might already have been inserted in the layout.
By default, paper space is active, so double-click within the layout viewport to make the model space
active. Notice that the edge of the layout viewport becomes thicker as a result of switching to model space.
Zoom out and center the model space view by panning. Note that the displayed view will not yet be set to
the correct scale.
Double-click outside the layout viewport to make paper space active again.
Open the Properties palette and then click to select the edge of the layout viewport.
1’-0” from the drop-down list. This action scales your view of model space precisely to the D-size
drawing. You should also set the Display Locked property from No to Yes, which will prevent any
unintentional display changes to the view.
(continued)
Move the layout viewport as needed, and adjust its edges using grips.
Create notes, labels, and dimensions directly in paper space. They will automatically appear at the correct
size.
Turn off the layer on which you created the layout viewport object. This hides the edges of the layout
viewport as shown below.
NOTE: After you have finished dimensioning, you can use the EXPORTLAYOUT command to merge
everything in model and paper space into the model space of a separate drawing file. This operation
creates a drawing file that conforms to the original method of creating the model and all annotations in
model space.
Create notes, labels, bubbles, and callouts. Save and restore style settings by name.
You can create general notes using the MTEXT command (or enter MT in the Command window), which
stands for multiline text. The multiline text tool is available on the Annotation panel.
After you start the MTEXT command, you are prompted to create a “text box” with two diagonal clicks.
As with several other annotation features, multiline text provides a lot of settings. You can save these
settings as a text style
using the STYLE command, and then you can access the text styles you’ve saved by clicking the drop-
down arrow on the Annotation panel. The current text style is displayed at the top of the drop-down list.
To create a new text style, click the Text Style control as shown.
Multileaders
Multileader objects are used to create text with leader lines such as general labels, reference labels,
bubbles, and callouts.
Create a Multilayer
To create a multilayer, use the MLEADER command. Click the Multilayer tool in the Annotation panel
or enter MLD in the Command window. Follow the prompts and options in the Command window. Feel
free to experiment.
After you create a multilayer, select it and then modify it by clicking and moving its grips.
Grip menus appear when you hover over arrowhead and leader grips. From these menus, you can add
leader segments or additional leaders.
You can create your own multileader styles from the drop-down list in the expanded Annotation panel, or
by entering MLEADERSTYLE in the Command window.
For example, to create a “detail callout” style, start the MLEADERSTYLE command. In the Multileader
Styles Manager, click New and choose a descriptive name for the new multileader style. Click the Content
tab, choose Block, and then Detail Callout as shown.
NOTE: As with text styles, once you create one or more multileader styles, save them in your drawing
template files.
Dimensions
Here is an example of several types of dimensions using an architectural dimension style with imperial
units.
Linear Dimensions
You can create horizontal, vertical, aligned, and radial dimensions with the DIM command. The type of
dimension depends on the object that you select and the direction that you drag the dimension line.
The following illustration demonstrates one method for using the DIM command. Once you start the
command, press Enter or the Spacebar, select the line (1), and then click the location of the dimension line
(2).
Linear Dimensions (continued)
For the 8’-0” dimension below, you use another method. You start the DIM command, click two endpoints
(1 and 2) and then the location of the dimension line (3). To line up the dimension lines point 3 was
snapped to the endpoint of the previously created dimension line.
Use the DIM command to create dimensions that are parallel to an object by dragging the dimension line
at an angle rather than horizontally or vertically.
Here’s a Tip:
If points 1 and 2 are not on the same horizontal line, press Shift to force the dimension line to be horizontal.
In addition, if the building or part being dimensioned is at an angle, enter DIMROTATED for that case.
Another Tip:
Because it is easy to accidentally snap to the wrong feature or part of a dimension object, be sure to zoom
In this example, you select the dimension to display its grips. Next, click the grip on the dimension text
and drag it to a new location, or click one of the grips at the end of the dimension line and drag the
dimension line.
Here’s a Tip:
If the changes are more complicated than this, it might be faster simply to delete and then recreate the
dimension.
Dimension Styles
Dimension styles help establish and enforce drafting standards. There are many dimension variables that
can be set with the DIMSTYLE command to control virtually every nuance of the appearance and
behavior of dimensions. All these settings are stored in each dimension style.
The default dimension style is named either Standard (imperial) or ISO-25 (metric). It is assigned to all
dimensions until another style is set as the current dimension style.
The current dimension style name, Hitchhiker in this case, is displayed in the drop-down list of the
Annotation panel.
To open the Dimension Style Manager, click the indicated button. You can create dimension styles that
match nearly any standard, but you will need to invest time into specifying them completely. For this
reason, you should save any dimension styles that you create in one or more drawing template files.
Printing
Output a drawing layout to a printer, a plotter, or a file. Save and restore the printer settings for each
layout.
Originally, people printed text from printers and plotted drawings from plotters. Now, you can perform
both with either device, so this guide will use the terms ‘print’ and ‘plot’ interchangeably.
The command to output a drawing is PLOT and you can access it from the Quick Access toolbar.
To display all of the options in the Plot dialog box, click the More Options button.
As you can see, there are many settings and options available.
For the sake of convenience, you can save and restore collections of these settings by name. These are
called page setups. With page setups you can store the
To open the Page Setup Manager, right-click on the Model tab or a layout tab and choose Page Setup
Manager. The command is PAGESETUP.
Each layout tab in your drawing can have an associated page setup. This is convenient when you use more
than one output device or format, or if you have several layouts with different sheet sizes in the same
drawing.
To create a new page setup, click New and enter the name of the new page setup. The Page Setup dialog
box that displays next looks like the Plot dialog box. Choose all the options and settings that you wish to
save.
When you are ready to plot, simply specify the name of the page setup in the Plot dialog box, and all your
plot settings will be restored. In the following illustration, the Plot dialog box is set to use the Hitchhiker
page setup, which will output a DWF (Design Web Format) file rather than print to a plotter.
Here’s a Tip:
You can
The following example shows you how to create a page setup for creating PDF files.
From the Printer/plotter drop-down list, choose AutoCAD PDF (General Documentation).pc3:
Next, choose the size and scale options that you want to use:
Paper Size: The orientation (portrait or landscape) is built into the choices in the drop-down list.
Plot Area: You can clip the area to be plotted with these options, but typically everything will be plotted.
Plot Offset: This setting changes based on your printer, plotter, or other output. Try centering the plot or
adjusting the origin, but remember that printers and plotters have a built-in margin around the edges.
Plot Scale: Choose your plot scale from the drop-down list. A scale such as 1/4” = 1’-0” is meant for
printing to scale from the Model tab. On a layout tab, you normally print at a 1:1 scale.
The plot style table provides information about processing colors. Colors that look good on your monitor
might not be suitable for a PDF file or for printing. For example, you might want to create a drawing in color,
but create monochrome output. Here is how you specify monochrome output:
Learning activities
The following figure is an orthographic view of a lever crank. Redraw the view using AutoCAD.
Draw this circuit, using the techniques you have learned using AutoCAD.
Draw the figure below using line, circle, rectangle, fillet, rectangular array, polar array, dimension, hatch,
layer, hidden line, and center line etc., commands.
1. When creating your own blocks, it is important to avoid drawing any portion of the block in the ________
layer.
A. 0
B. center line
C. hatch
D. hidden line
2. An AutoCAD term that refers to a pre-drawn object which is stored in a drawing file and can be inserted
into any other drawing file as needed is a ________.
A. Block
B. Brick
C. Balloon
D. none of the above
3. Before starting an isometric drawing in AutoCAD the drafter needs to ________.
11. When filling an area with a hatch pattern in AutoCAD the drafter needs to be able to ________.
A. See the entire bounding area to hatch
B. set Ortho on
C. turn ISO grid off
D. set the layer to Defpoints
12. The default position of the UCS icon is positioned at ________ on the AutoCAD grid.
A. 0,0,0
B. 10,10,10
C. 20,20,20
D. None of the above
13. A cylinder can be created by drawing a rectangular shape then the ________ tool.
A. Revolve
B. Sweep
C. Extrude
D. none of the above
14. The MASSPROP shortcut will provide the following information.
A. mass
B. volume
C. bounding box
18. The Conceptual Visual Style tool is located on the ________ toolbar.
A. Visual Styles
B. Modify
C. 3-D Modeling
D. All of the above
19. Drawings created with commercial software are typically saved as:
A. Rapid prototypes
B. Electronic files
C. Draft drawings
D. Change orders
20. Newer versions of AutoCAD utilize the ________ to make block library management very easy.
A. File / find
B. Design Center
C. File / search
D. None of the above
21. Inserting blocks into a drawing file usually requires exacting placement. The drafter should insure that
________ is turned on.
A. O Snaps
B. Ortho
C. Grid
1. Drawing tools
2. Drawing set
3. Drawing papers
4. Erasers
5. Series of pencils
6. Drawing board
1. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing : Plane and Solid Geometry. Charotar
Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
2. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
3. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International
Publ., New Delhi.
4. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing . B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
5. Textbook of Engineering Drawing Second Edition K. Venkata Reddy Prof. & HOD of Mechanical
Engineering Dept. C.R. Engineering College,
6. Learn about AutoCAD manual. An Introduction to AutoCAD for Beginners
4.7 MODEL ANSWERS
1. B
2. A
3. B
4. C
5. A
6. B
7. Why the drawing is called the language of Engineers?
Engineering drawing teaches us to imagine and read the drawing,which is important in industrial or
construction engineers to execute the construction with the help of a drawing and execute according
to the drawing.Without drawing we can’t construct in construction work
8. What is the Necessity of Dimension a Drawing?
1. D 9
2. D an inscribed
3. Ellipse
4.
Add the ratios 1+3+4 = 8 and divide the line into 8 equal divisions.
Obtain P and Q to divide the line AB in the ratio 1:3:4.
Answer: a
Explanation: Here the isometric view of some example picture is given. Arrow in question
represents the line of sight in case of front view from that we can get other view. Front view is
asked which can be watched along the arrow.
i. The following figures are in isometric view. Draw the orthographic views in first angle.
1. D
2. B
3. B
4. A
5. A
6. B
7. A
8. B
9. C
10. A
11. D
12. D
Side view
Plan
15. First angle projection:-In this projection the object is assumed to be situated in first quadrant, i.e.
in front of V.P and above HP the projections obtained on these planes is called first angle
projection. The symbol for the first angle projection is
Third angle projection: – In this Projection the object is assumed to be situated in the third quadrant
that is below HP and behind VP .The front view comes below the XY line and the top view above it.
The symbol for the third angle projection is
1. Definitions;
i. Schematic diagram
Schematic diagram: a diagram that uses lines to represent the wires and symbols to represent
components. It is used to show how the circuit functions.
Battery
Inverter
Filament lamp
3. A pictorial diagram to show the connection of the solar panel, the battery, and the load to a charge
controller.
1. A
2. A
3. A
4. B
5. A
6. A
7. C
8. B
9. C
10. A
23. Answer: c
Explanation: The commands Erase, Copy, Mirror, Trim, Extend, Break, Join, Scale, Array etc belongs to
‘Modify tool bar’. The commands Donut, Block, Spline, Hatch, Rectangle, Ellipse, Polygon, and Arc etc
belong to ‘Draw tool bar’.
24. Answer: d
Explanation: The commands Erase, Copy, Mirror, Trim, Extend, Break, Join, Scale, Array etc belongs to
‘Modify tool bar’. The commands Donut, Block, Spline, Hatch, Rectangle, Ellipse, Polygon, and Arc etc
belong to ‘Draw tool bar’.
25. Answer: a
Explanation: Chamfer works on two lines or a single poly line to create a beveled edge. Fillet is used to create
a round corner between two lines. Stretch command can either lengthen entities or shorten them and thus
their shapes.
26. Answer: b
Explanation: Fillet is used to create a round corner between two lines. Chamfer works on two lines or a single
poly line to create a beveled edge. Stretch command can either lengthen entities or shorten them and thus
their shapes.
27. Answer: c
Explanation: The command ‘Oops’ is used to retrieves all objects erased by the last erase. Mirror is used to
creates mirror image of selected objects about specified line. Command copy creates one or more copies of
selected objects at another location. The command ‘pedit’ is used for
28. Answer: d
Explanation: The command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘U’ is used for
reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands. Command ‘break’ is used for erases a portion
of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points.
30. Answer: b
Explanation: The command ‘U’ is used for reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands.
Command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘break’ is used for erases a portion of
line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points.
31. Answer: c
Explanation: The command ‘Explode’ is used for breaking a poly line into individual segments. Command
‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘U’ is used for reverses the effects of a series of
previously used commands.
32. Answer: c
Explanation: UCS is used to set a new coordinate system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired
location. 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides. VPOINT is
used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models.
33. Answer: a
Explanation: 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides. VPOINT
is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models. UCS is used to set a new coordinate
system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired location.
34. Answer: b
Explanation: VPOINT is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models. 3DFACE is used
for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides. UCS is used to set a new coordinate
system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired location.
35. Answer: d
Explanation: ELEV is used to set elevation and thickness properties for 2D wireframe objects such as line,
point, circle, polygon and arc. 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four
sides.
The cable joints are used to connect low, medium or high voltage cables. The type of cable joint sizes, shapes
and configurations vary according to the voltage, structure, insulation and the number of cores of the cable
to be jointed.
The joints provide electrical insulation as well as mechanical protection and strength. The electrical
connection is made in various ways and can crimping, or use of mechanical connectors, soldering, etc.
Voltage- The joints are designed for low, medium or high voltages and it is important to match the capacity
of the joint to voltage in the cable. Low power cable joint will fail if subjected to high current.
Structure- The cable joints are made according to how the cables are to be connected. The simple joints such
as the straight through connectors are used to connect two power cables at one point while the other more
advanced branch connectors may be used to accommodate a cable branching off the main line or several
cables coming into one joint to form one main cable.
Cores- The cable joints are required to have the same number of cores to those of the cables to be joined.
Insulation- There are different cable insulations depending on the application of the cable and the cable joint
must be compatible with the cable insulation. There are a variety of insulation procedures, and can be either
heat or cold shrinkable insulation, molded type of insulation, or use of tape.
Types of electrical power cable joints
There are about four commonly used types of joints; these differ in mechanical arrangement and where they
are used. However, some manufacturers may provide custom designs to suit unique customer requirements.
1. Riser
2. Earth continuity connection
3. C.J compound
4. Plastinet
5. Pouring gate
6. Core Insulation
7. PVC (NA) Tape
8. Ferrule
9. BOPP Tape two layers each half overlapped over plastinet
Branch which can be a T or Y joint- This is used to join low voltage, polymeric, non-shielded cables of
between 1 and 5 cores. The branch jointing provides a reliable electrical connection, electrical insulation and
mechanical protection. The connectors are either the compression or the mechanical type. The branch joints
can be used for indoor, outdoor, submerged and underground cable jointing.
T or Y joint
Pot End Joints- The pot end joints are used at the live voltage cable ends. In a typical cable, each of the cores
is sealed separately using a heat shrink cable end caps. A screen bandage is then applied to provide for earth
fault protection and the combination is then covered with a thick wall of heat shrink cable cap. The pot ends
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• Importance of termination
➢ Provides electrical continuity in the circuit
➢ Provides mechanical support and physical protection to the cables
➢ Ensures safety of the circuit, the user and maintenance technician
Types of cable terminations
Soldering- Flame soldering units can be used to automate the process. In a flame soldering application, the
object is placed over a tiny flame, heated for a specified time and a precise amount of solder is applied. Some
applications require the terminal to be soldered after it is crimped onto the end of the wire. This method is
mainly used in electronics
Insulation Displacement Connections- Insulation displacement connectors (IDC) are probably the fastest
way to terminate wires. The process can quickly and efficiently terminate the hundreds of wires in large
patch panels. There is no need to strip the wires when using IDC. IDC tools are inexpensive and virtually
error-proof. There are no chemicals to deal with and no insulation slugs to clean up. IDC applications are
usually reserved for small, stranded wire up to 22 AWG.
Crimping- Crimping is the most commonly used method of wire termination, and is most efficient for high-
volume wire termination. The terminations are fast, clean and mechanically strong. For low volume or
fieldwork, loose terminals are applied with a plethora of handheld and benchtop crimping devices.
Ultrasonic Welding- Ultrasonic welding is used in various bonding applications, such as joining such
dissimilar metals as copper, aluminum, nickel and brass. Ultrasonic welding is widely used in wire
harness manufacturing, where welding multiple wires is required. The resulting molecular bonds
are strong and can provide lower resistance than soldering or crimping. Ultrasonic welding can
also bond wire to terminals. The advantage is the lower resistance. The disadvantage is that this
process takes longer than crimping
Cable lug- A device attached to a conductor to permit connection to a terminal. It has provisions for
attachment of wires or similar electrical conductors in order to establish an electrical connection
and could require the use of tools for attachment of wire. A terminal may be attached to a wire by
a number of methods including screw-on, press-on or crimp-on
• Cable labeling
Letters, numbers, and wording on wiring labels tell you important information, such as the wire material,
the size of the wire, and the type of insulation used on the conducting wires. Labels are found on
both individual insulated wires and on insulated cable containing bundles of wires. Cables carry
labels indicating the cable type or construction as well as the number of wires inside the cable.
A ground wire is indicated by "G," "w/G," or "with Ground." The wire material is indicated by "CU" for
copper and "AL" for aluminum.
Example
➢ 14-2G: Cable contains two insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 14-gauge.
➢ 14-3G: Cable contains three insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 14-gauge.
➢ 12-2 w/G: Cable contains two insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 12-gauge.
➢ 12-3 w/G: Cable contains three insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 12-gauge.
➢ 600 V: Cable is rated for a maximum of 600 volts; this is standard for residential NM cable.
➢ TYPE NM-B: Non-metallic type-B cable; this is the current standard for residential installations.
"NM-B" cable is more heat-resistant than older "NM" cable.
Underground Feeder Cable
Most NM cable is used in "dry," or interior, locations, where the cable is protected inside wall, ceiling, and
floor cavities. Underground feeder (UF) cable is a special type of non-metallic cable that is suitable for "wet"
locations, or for unprotected locations like direct burial in the ground. UF cable is usually gray (not white,
yellow, orange, or black, like standard NM cable); it is labeled "UF-B" and may include "Sunlight Resistant"
or similar wording. UF cable uses the same symbols as standard NM cable to indicate the number and gauge
of wires.
Labels on Individual Wires
Individual insulated wires are used in home wiring when an installation calls for conduit—a rigid or flexible
protective pipe or tubing through which the wires are run. The important labeling on individual wires relates to
the wire insulation—the plastic coating that covers the metal conducting wire. The most common types of wire
used in home wiring include:
Low-voltage wiring used around the home includes small non-metallic cable used for thermostats and other
control devices and paired insulated wire used for landscape lighting systems. Wire for landscape lights usually
is black and has labeling stamped into the wire insulation. Labels typically include:
➢ Wire size: Indicated by a number (such as 12, for 12-gauge) or a number followed by "AWG," for
American Wire Gauge.
➢ Number of wires: Usually indicated by the number 2; landscape wiring typically has two insulated
wires stuck together (similar to a lamp cord) and contains no ground wire.
➢ Properties: Wording indicating sunlight-resistance or suitability for underground installation.
Thermostat cable is similar to NM cable but contains four or more small insulated wires and no ground wire.
The cable may or may not be labeled. Each wire has its own colour to help you connect to the appropriate
terminal at the thermostat and the equipment it controls. Although colour coding is not universal, the lettering
on the thermostat terminals is relatively standard:
C: Common wire; allows for continuous power flow from the R wire; not all thermostats use this terminal
Technicians in their line of work may also find it necessary to label cables especially in industrial installation,
cabinets and automated systems for easy troubleshooting and safety.
➢ Snips- They are used to cut small cables and conductors, and to trim insulation.
➢ Wire stripper hole for 22- to 24-gauge wire- They are used to strip insulation from conductors. The
adjusting screw should be used to prevent the cutting tips doing damage to the conductor. They may also
➢ Automatic wire stripper- The automatic wire stripper is designed to remove insulation from a range
of conductor sizes.
➢ Hack saw- It is used to cut the larger size cables, cut mini trunking and cut out openings in surface
boxes for cable entry.
➢ Electrician’s knife- Electrician’s penknife is mainly used to remove the sheath from the various types
of cables and flexible cords.
Practical activities
Industrial attachment
A case study
Carefully read the case study in the excerpt below and answer that follow
You are employed by ABC Company limited. The company which deals with electrical installation and
consultancy. The company is required to install electrical power in a wheat grinding plant. The plant
is powered by 3 phase 415V power to run grinding the machine. The company has assigned you
responsibility to supervise installation process. Installation is complete and now you are required to
terminate cables.
1. Explain how you would get 240V power from the 415V for lighting and socket outlets
2. Discuss various termination methods you will apply in the system
3. Give some considerations in selecting cable joints
4. Explain importance of termination in electrical installation
5. Names various tools and how they are applied in cable termination.
➢ Functional workshop
➢ Tools equipment used in electrical installation e.g.
✓ Pliers
✓ Cable strippers
✓ Crimping tools
✓ Materials e.g.
✓ Cables
✓ Trunking
✓ Conduits
✓ Enclosures
Supplies and consumables e.g.
✓ Cable ties
✓ Silicon glue
1.2.6.3 Self-Assessment
1. What are the factors you will consider before selecting the method of termination suitable for various
parts of the installation?
2. Give various types of the terminations you will apply for the installation
3. Explain importance of termination
4. What are the factors you will consider when selecting types of cable joints to apply during
installation?
5. Give various types of cable joints
6. Explain importance of cable labeling in electrical installation
7. Explain some tools used for performing various types of terminations
1.2.6.4 References
Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard; Prepare and interpret technical drawings
Unit Description
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee to be competent in identifying, and gathering
drawing and drawing materials according to task requirements. It also covers content on maintenance of
drawings and drawing materials.
Performance standard
Information sheet
A draftsperson needs some basic tools to draw. These should include the following:
xi. A range of pencils
xii. Ruler
xiii. Set squares
xiv. Rubber
xv. Compasses
xvi. Dividers
Pencils: You will need a selection of pencils. A hard leaded pencil (6H) can be used for light
lines, a softer pencil (2H) for the outlines and an even softer pencil (HB) for printing. (More
than one pencil of each grade will save you from frequent re-sharpening.)
Ruler: It is advisable to have a transparent ruler.
Set squares: You will need at least two set squares: a 60 ° and a 45 ° set square. It will be also
useful to have an adjustable set square, which will enable you to set the angle on the set square
to anywhere between 0 ° and 90 °. If you have an adjustable set square you can manage without
the other two.
Rubber: Choose a good quality rubber, one that does not smudge.
Compasses: You will need at least two compasses: a small spring bow compass for small
circles and one for larger circles.
Dividers: A pair of dividers is essential.
Drawing board and T-square: Drawing boards for size A2 paper can be bought with a fitted
horizontal square which slides up and down on rollers. A less expensive board is one that is
used with a separate T-square which slides up and down on the side of the drawing board and
has to be held in place when used.
Clips or tape: The best tape to use to hold paper on the drawing board is masking tape but
metal drawing board clips are easier to use.
Emery board or fine sandpaper: This is used to ensure that the lead in the pencils is kept
sharp.
• T- Square
• Set- squares
Instruments for Drawing Curved Lines
• Compass
• French curve
Instruments for Measuring Distance
• Divider
• Scales
Instruments for Measuring Angles
• Protractors
Drawing materials
These are consumable items used for technical drawing. They are consumable because they cannot be reused
after being used.
8. Erasers
Erasers are rubber materials used to clean errors made. A good eraser should be able to clean errors
without tearing the paper.
9. Handkerchief
It is a small clothing material used for cleaning and dusting.
10. Emery clothes/glass paper
They are materials used to maintain the sharpness of pencils at all times
11. Adhesives
It is commonly called callotape.it is used to fix drawing paper on the drawing board.
12. Drawing pencils
The drawing pencil is used for preparing the drawing on the drawing paper.
Pencils
Pencils are the main drawing instruments used to draw the lines, circles, arcs, polygons, etc. with respect to
the scale provided. Some of the pencils are hard and some of the pencils are smooth.
The hard pencils are used to draw the construction lines and the smooth pencils are used to draw the main
lines.
5. H Grades:
H leads give cleaner lines and are also smudge resistant, making them perfect for outlining, technical
drawings, painting with watercolors after the sketch and light sketches.
The only flip side is that as you move up the scale, the harder the leads will get and they tend to be scratchy.
So make sure you practice and experiment before you begin on your actual art project.
2. HB:
The HB grade lies in the middle of the spectrum. HB is dark enough to be read clearly with minimal smudging
and is therefore used mostly for writing.
3. B Grade:
B grades smudge easily, are smooth to write and draw with. But they are easily erasable. As you go higher
up the scale with these pencils, artists can take advantage of the brush- like expressions that can result while
using this grade of pencils. Animators in particular love using 10B on the animator paper as it writes so
smoothly – like butter, creating quick, heavy lines without friction.
4. F Grade:
Depending on the smooth and hard quality or the hardness, pencils are classified into 18 grades and they are
as follows.
9H Hardest
3H Very hard
2H Hard
H Moderately hard
F Firm
HB Medium hard
7B Softest
Out of the above 18 grades of pencils, the following grades are used in engineering drawings.
3H Construction lines
2. Wood.
3. Painted body.
4. Ferrule.
5. Eraser.
Drawing board
5.Do not use drawing board for any other purpose than for drawing
6.The surface of the drawing board must be in good condition. Do not using sharp object to cut on
it.
7. Always clean the drawing board before use.
8. Cover drawing board surface with paper or cardboard after use
Tee square
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Title Block
The title block should lie within the drawing space at the bottom right hand comer of the sheet. The title
block can have a maximum length of 170 mm providing the following information.
10. Title of the drawing
11. Drawing number
12. Scale
13. Symbol denoting the method of projection
14. Name of the firm
15. Initials of staff who have designed, checked and approved
16. Date when the drawing was finished
17. Name of the person who checked the drawing
18. Remarks
Lettering
Lettering used in engineering drawing is referred to as a Single Stroke, Commercial Gothic Hints
on Lettering
Most notes on drawings are done in upper case (capital letters) although this is not always so.
Two alphabets and numbers are shown below.
Most draftspersons develop great skills in printing by hand. If you need to print, try both standard
and italic and develop a style that suits you.
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghIjklmnopqrstuvwxyz
1234567890
Lines
In Engineering Drawing, we make use of different lines and line styles to convey the desired message.
These lines differ in (i) thickness and (ii) style
Recommended
line thickness [mm]
Type of Line and Designation Applications
PAPER SIZE
A4/A3/A2 A1/A0
B: 8. Dimensioning line
9. Projection or extension lines
(used to project points from one view to
A continuous thin line
another) 0.25 0.35
10. Hatching
11. Outlines of adjacent parts
12. Outline of revolved views or
revolved sections
13. Leaders for notes
14. Imaginary outlines
Learning Activities
Make a sketch of an A 1 size drawing sheet, showing in it, the border lines, margin lines, folding marks,
zones and the title block. Give the untrimmed and trimmed sizes of this sheet.
In an A3 size sheet, Copy the drawings below as per layout shown. [All dimensions are in mm.]
Write freehand the following, using single stroke vertical (CAPITAL and lower-case) letters:
Self-assessment
7. Drawing tools
8. Drawing set
9. Drawing papers
10. Erasers
11. Series of pencils
12. Drawing board
References
6. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing : Plane and Solid Geometry. Charotar
Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
7. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
8. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International
Publ., New Delhi.
9. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing . B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee to acquire the competence of producing plane geometry
drawings.
Performance Standard
vii. Different types of lines used in drawing and their meanings are identified according to standard drawing
conventions
viii. Different types of geometric forms are constructed according to standard conventions
ix. Different types of angles are constructed according to principles of trigonometry
x. Different types of angles are measured using appropriate measuring tools
xi. Angles are bisected according to standard conventions
xii. Freehand sketching of different types of geometric forms, tools, , diagrams is conducted
Information sheet
i. Add the ratios 1+3+4 = 8 and divide the line into 8 equal divisions.
ii. Obtain P and Q to divide the line AB in the ratio 1:3:4.
Triangles
vi. Scalene triangle is a triangle with three unequal sides and three unequal angles.
vii. Isosceles triangle is a triangle with two sides, and hence two angles, equal.
viii. Equilateral triangle is a triangle with all the sides, and hence all the angles, equal.
ix. Right-angled triangle is a triangle containing one right angle. The side opposite the right angle is
called the ‘hypotenuse’.
x. Obtuse-angled triangle
Acute-angled triangle
Constructions of triangles
Example:
To construct a ΔABC in which ∠B = 60°; ∠C = 45° and their included side BC = 3cm
▪ Draw BC = 3cm
▪ Construct ∠BCQ = 45°
▪ Construct ∠PBC = 60°
▪ The lines BP and CQ at point A
▪ Thus, ΔABC is the required triangle
Quadrilaterals
Types of quadrilaterals
vii. Square is a quadrilateral with all four sides of equal length and one of its angles (and hence the other
three) a right angle.
viii. Rectangle is a quadrilateral with its opposite sides of equal length and one of its angles (and hence
the other three) a right angle.
ix. Parallelogram is a quadrilateral with opposite sides equal and therefore parallel.
x. Rhombus is a quadrilateral with all four sides equal.
xi. Trapezium is a quadrilateral with one pair of opposite sides parallel.
xii. Trapezoid is a quadrilateral with all four sides and angles unequal.
Step 3: Draw an arc with B as the center and radius 5 cm, cutting ray BX at C.
Step 4: Draw an arc with C as the center and radius 5 cm.
Step 5: Draw another arc with A as the center and radius 5 cm, cutting the previous arc at D.
Step 6: Join points D, A and D, C. ABCD is the required square.
A C
3 cm O 3 cm
Y
Figure 149: Construct a square whose one diagonal
Construction of Parallelogram
Construction of a parallelogram when both the diagonals and the angle between them are
given.
Construct a parallelogram ABCD in which diagonal AC = 8 cm, diagonal BC = 9.2 cm and the
angle between them is 50°.
In a parallelogram, diagonals bisect each other:
AO = ½ AC = ½ × 8 = 4 cm
BO = ½ BD = ½ × 9.2 = 4.6
cm
Step 1: Draw line segment AC = 8 cm
Step 2: Draw the perpendicular bisector of AC.
Step 3: Construct. DAOX = 50°. Extend XO to Y.
Step 4: With O as the centre and radius equal to 4.6 cm, draw an arc cutting OX at D, and OY at B.
Step 5: Join points A, B, points B, C, points C, D and points A, D. ABCD is the required
parallelogram.
CIRCLES
Definition
A circle is a plane figure bounded by a curved line called the circumference, which is always
equidistant from the center.
PROPERTIES OF A CIRCLE
POLYGONS
Definitions
A polygon is a plane figure bounded by more than four straight sides. Polygons are frequently
referred to have particular names. Some of these are listed below
Polygons
8. A pentagon is a plane figure bounded by five sides
9. A hexagon is a plane figure bounded by six sides
10. A heptagon is a plane figure bounded by seven sides
11. An octagon is a plane figure bounded by eight sides
12. A nonagon is a plane figure bounded by nine sides
13. A decagon is a plane figure bounded by ten sides.
14. A regular polygon is one that has all its sides equal and therefore all its exterior angles
equal and all its interior angles equal.
The diameter of that circle is called the diameter of the polygon.
The diagonal of a polygon is the distance from one corner to the corner furthest away from it.
Figure 156:
155: Regular
Octagonoctagon
To construct a rectangular octagon; given the diameter, i.e, within a given square.
Q C D R
B E
T
A F
P G S
H
Figure 157: Rectangular octagon
There are three fairly simple way of constructing a regular polygon. Two
methods require a simple calculation and the third requires very careful
construction if it is to be exact. All three methods are shown. The constructions
work for any polygon, and a heptagon (seven sides) has been chosen to illustrate
them
Method 1
Method 2
Tangency
A tangent to a circle is a straight line that touches the circle at one point.
Construct the different conditions of tangency
5. Common tangent to two equal circles
6. Common interior tangent to two equal circles
7. Common tangent between two unequal circles
8. Common internal tangent between two unequal circles
Construct the following conditions Inscribed, Circumscribed and Escribed
v. Circumscribed Circle
Perpendicularly bisect any two sides to intersect in O. (If the third side is bisected it should also
pass through O). O is the centre of the circumscribed circle. This centre is called the circumcenter.
In this section, we will learn how to construct angles of 600, 300, 900, 450 and 1200 with the using a
ruler and compasses only.
Steps of Construction
Step 1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With centre O and any radius draw an arc PQ with the help of compasses, cutting the ray OA
Steps of Construction:
0
Step 1: Draw ∠AOB = 60 by using the steps mentioned above.
Step 2: With centre O and any convenient radius draw an arc cutting OA and OB at P and Q
respectively.
Step 3: With centre P and radius more than 12(PQ), draw an arc in the interior of ∠AOB.
Step 4: With centre Q and the same radius, as in step III, draw another arc intersecting the arc in step
III at R.
Step 5: Join OR and product it to any point C.
0
Step 6: The angle ∠AOC is the angle of measure 30 .
Steps of Construction:
Step1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With O as centre and any convenient radius, draw an arc, cutting OA at P.
Step 3: With P as centre and the same radius, an arc cutting the arc drawn in step 2 at Q.
Step 4: With Q as centre and the same radius as in steps 2 and 3, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn
in step 2 at R.
Step 5: With Q as centre and the same radius, draw an arc.
Step 6: With R as centre and the same radius, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn in step V at B.
Step 7: Draw OB and produce it to C. ∠AOC is the angle of measure 900.
Steps of Construction:
0
Step 1: Draw ∠AOB = 90 by following the steps given above.
Step 2: Draw OC, the bisector of ∠AOB.
The angle ∠AOC so obtained is the required angle of measure 450.
Steps of Construction:
Step 1: Draw a ray OA.
Step 2: With O as centre and any convenient radius, draw an arc cutting OA at P.
Step 3: With P as centre and the same radius draw an arc, cutting the first arc at Q.
Step 4: With Q as centre and the same radius, draw an arc, cutting the arc drawn in step II at R.
Step 5: Join OR and produce it to any point C. ∠AOC so obtained is the angle of measure 1200
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Angle:
Two rays with a common end point form an angle. OA, OB is rays & O is end point.
O B
Types of Angles
In geometry, angles can be classified according to the size (or magnitude) of the angle.
8. Right angle: An angle, whose measure is 90°, is called a right angle. Two lines that meet at
a right angle are said to be perpendicular.
An angle of 360°:
If a ray OA starting from its original position OA, rotates about O, in the anticlockwise direction and
after making a complete revolution it comes back to its original position, we say that it has rotated
through 360 degrees, written as 360°.
A PROTRACTOR
Protractor: The Protractor is a circular or semi-circular tool for measuring angles. The units of
measurement used are degrees. Some protractors are simple half-discs. More advanced protractors
1. Place the notch or center point of your protractor at the point where the sides of the angle meet
(the vertex).
2. Place the protractor so that one of the lines of the angle you want to measure reads zero (that’s
actually 0°).
3. Read the number off the protractor where the second side of the angle meets the protractor.
Bisecting a Line
4. With A as centre and radius more than half of AB, draw arcs, one on each side of AB.
5. With B as centre and the same radius as in step 2, draw arcs cutting the arcs drawn in step
2 at C and E respectively.
6. Draw the line segment with C and E as end-points. Suppose it meets AB at D. Then bisects
the line segment AB.
In the construction industry all drawings are carried out to a British Standard referred to as BS 1192.
Drawing of a component, in addition to providing complete shape description, must also furnish
information regarding the size description. These are provided through the distances between the
surfaces, location of holes, nature of surface finish, type of material, etc. The expression of these
features on a drawing, using lines, symbols, figures and notes is called dimensioning.
Principles of Dimensioning
14. All dimensional information necessary to describe a component clearly and completely
shall be written directly on a drawing.
15. Each feature shall be dimensioned once only on a drawing, i.e. dimension marked in one
view need not be repeated in another view. Never repeat a dimension.
16. Dimension should be placed on the view where the shape is best seen
17. As far as possible, dimensions should be expressed in one unit only preferably in
millimeters, without showing the unit symbol (mm).
18. As far as possible dimensions should be placed outside the view.
19. Dimensions should be taken from visible outlines rather than from hidden lines.
20. No gap should be left between the feature and the start of the extension line.
21. Crossing of center lines should be done by a long dash and not a short dash.
22. Circles are usually dimensioned using the measurement of their diameter.
23. There are dimension lines and projection lines. Projection lines are thin lines, which begin
1mm from the drawing and extend beyond the last dimension line by 2mm. They define
the area being dimensioned and never touch the actual object. Dimension lines are also
thin lines with arrows placed at each end that touch the projection line.
24. Each dimension line starts 10mm from the object and is then 10mm apart. The smaller
dimensions are placed closer to the object. Longest dimension lines are furthest away from
a view (for example, total height).
25. Each Dimension Line has an arrowhead that can be open or closed. Arrowheads touch (but
do not cross) projection lines.
26. Dimension numbers can be written vertically or horizontally. The selection of vertical or
horizontal writing must be consistent throughout the drawing.
All drawings require some form of lettering and numbers. The principles to remember are:
They should be legible and clear – especially numbers, as they often have to be read on their own.
They should be of a suitable size and not less than 3mm tall. Title blocks and relative information
are usually larger.
They should be correctly spaced and positioned. Notes and captions should be placed so that they
can be read in the same direction as in the title block. In other worlds it should not be necessary to
turn a drawing on its side to read the information.
Notes should be grouped together and not spread over the drawing.
One of the most important features of any drawing is the border and title block. The border (or
margin) is a line which follows the outer edge of the drawing and is usually 10 or 20mm inside
it. This margin is very important because everything inside it forms part of any contract.
The ‘Title Block’ is locked within the boarder and contains information such as:
A scale can be used to increase the detail of a small object or to accurately represent a large object
on a smaller piece of paper. The majority of scaled work done in the construction industry is to
reduce objects to a smaller more suitable size that will fit on a sheet of paper.
The list below shows the scales used in BS 1192:
Block Plans 1:2500. These show the outlines of buildings and may also indicate roads, railway lines
or rivers.
General Location Drawings 1:200 or 1:100. These drawings can show pipe runs within the building
and the location of radiators and sanitary fixtures.
When details of boiler houses or plant rooms are given the scale may increase to 1:50. This enables
greater detail to be shown. Where particular detail is necessary the scale could be as high as 1:20 or
1:10. This could be in the case of a bracket or support for a piece of equipment.
LOCI
A locus (Plural loci) is the path traced out by a point which moves under given definite conditions
or rules. You may not have been aware of it, but you have met loci many times before. One of the
most common loci is that of a point which moves so that its distance from another fixed point remains
constant: this produces a circle. Another locus that you know is that of a point which moves so that
its distance from a line remains constant: this produces parallel lines.
The problems of loci can take several different forms. One important practical application in building
is in the setting out of curves such as parabolic, hyperbolic and circular curves. Another important
application of loci in engineering is finding the path traced out by points on mechanisms. This may
be simply to see if there is sufficient clearance around a mechanism.
ELLIPSE
Definition
An ellipse is the locus of a point which moves so that distance from a fixed point (called the focus)
bears a constant ratio, always less than 1, to its perpendicular distance from a straight line called the
directrix). An ellipse has two foci and two and two directrices. Figure 3 shows how to draw an ellipse
given the relative positions of and the directrix, and the eccentricity. In this case the focus and the
directrix are 20mm apart and the eccentricity is 4/3
The first point to plot is the one that lies between the focus and the directrix. This is done by dividing
DF in the same ratio as the eccentricity 4:3. The other end of the ellipse, point is found by working
out the simple algebraic sum shown on
The condition for the locus is that it is always ¾ as far from the focus as it is from the directrix. It is
therefore ¾ as far from the directrix as it is from the focus. Thus. If the point is 30mm from F, it is
40\3mm from the directrix; if the point is 20mm from F, it is ¾ x20mm from the directrix; if the
To construct an ellipse when the distance of the focus from the directrix is equal to 50 mm and
eccentricity is 2/3
xvi. A scale may now be constructed on the axis (as explained below), which will directly give
the distances in the required ratio
xvii. At V, draw a perpendicular VE equal to VF. Draw a line joining C and E.
thus, in triangle CVE, VE/VC =VF/VC=2/3
xviii. Mark any point 1 on the axis and through it, draw a perpendicular to meet CE-produced
at 1’ .
xix. With centre F and radius equal to 1-1 ', draw arcs to intersect the perpendicular through 1
at points P1 and P'1. These are the points on the ellipse, because the distance of P1 from
AB is equal to C1,
xx. 𝑃1𝐹 = 1 − 1’
and
1 − 1′ 𝑉𝐹 2
= =
𝐶1 𝑉𝐶 3
Similarly, mark points 2, 3 etc. on the axis and obtain points P2 and P'2, P3 and P'3 etc. (x)
Exercise
Draw the ellipse through these points. It is a closed curve having two foci and two
directrices.
The ellipse is drawn by, first determining a number of points through which it is known to pass and
then, drawing a smooth curve through them, either freehand or with a french curve. Larger the
number of points, more accurate the curve will be.
vii. Draw the major axis AB and the minor axis CD intersecting each other at O.
As the curve is symmetrical about the two axes, points in the remaining quadrants may be
located by drawing perpendiculars and horizontals from P1, P2 etc. and making each of them
of equal length on both the sides of the two axes. For example, P2x = x P11 and P2y = yP5.
Learning activity
vi. Draw horizontal line AB = 100 mm. Take A as centre draw an arc of 80 mm. Similarly B as
centre and the radius equal to 60 mm, draw the arc such that it intersects previously drawn arc
at the point C. Join ABC to complete triangle.
vii. Mark the mid point of AB such that OA = OB = 50 mm. Join OC and extend CO such that CO
= OD.
PARABOLA
Use of parabolic curves is made in arches, bridges, sound reflectors, light reflectors etc.
Mathematically a parabola can be described by an equation y2 =4 ax or x2 = 4a y.
To construct a parabola when the distance of the Focus from the directrix is 50 mm.
Rectangular method
Tangent method
(v) Draw the base AB and the axis ff. (These are taken different from those in method I.)
(vi) Produce ff to O so that EF = FO.
(vii) Join O with A and 8. Divide lines OA and OB into the same number of equal parts, say 8.
(iv) Mark the division-points as shown in the figure.
(viii) Draw lines joining 1 with 1 ', 2 with 2' etc. Draw a curve starting from A and tangent to lines
1-1 ', 2-2' etc. This curve is the required parabola.
Definition
A hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves so that its distance from a fixed point (called the
focus) bears a constant ratio, always greater than 1, to its perpendicular distance from a straight line
(called the directrix).
Figure 45 shows how to draw a hyperbola given the relative positions of the focus and the directrix
and the eccentricity (3/2). The first point to plot is the one that lies between the focus and the directrix.
This is done by dividing the distance between them in the same ratio as the eccentricity.3:2.
The condition for the locus is that it is always 2/3 as far from the directrix as it is from the focus.
Thus, if the point is 15mm from the focus, it is 2/3 × 15𝑚𝑚 from the directrix; if it is 20mm from
the focus, it is 2/3 x 20mm from the directrix. This is continued for as many points as may be required.
It is a curve traced out by a point moving in such a way that the product of its distances from two
fixed lines at right angles to each other is a constant. The fixed lines are called asymptotes.
This curve graphically represents the Boyle's Law, viz. P x V = a, P = pressure, V = volume and a is
constant. It is also useful in design of water channels.
General method of construction of a hyperbola
𝑥2 𝑦2
Mathematically, we can describe a hyperbola by 𝑎2 − 𝑏2 = 1
(figure 44): Construct a hyperbola, from the directrix is 65 mm and eccentricity is f
iv. Draw the directrix AB and the axis CD.
v. Mark the focus F on CD and 65 mm from C.
vi. Divide CF into 5 equal divisions and mark V the vertex, on the second division from C.
𝑉𝐹 3
Thus, eccentricity=𝑉𝐶 = 2
To construct the scale for the ratio draw a line VE perpendicular to CD such that VE = VF.
Join C with E.
𝑉𝐸 𝑉𝐹 3
Thus, in triangle CVE,𝑉𝐶 = 𝑉𝐶 = 2
v. Mark any point 1 on the axis and through it, draw a perpendicular to meet CE-produced at 1
Figure 183
Freehand Sketching
Freehand sketching is one of the effective methods to communicate ideas irrespective of the branch
of study. The basic principles of drawing used in freehand sketching are similar to those used in
drawings made with instruments.
Learning activities
To draw a fine perpendicular to a given horizontal line from a given point within it.
Self-assessment
A. a circumscribed
B. a concentric
C. an eccentric
D. an escribed
E. an inscribed
10. Draw a parabola by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 1:1.
11. Draw a hyperbola by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 2:3.
12. Draw an ellipse by locus of a point method such that the distance between the focus and
the directrix is 40mm and the eccentricity is 3:2.
7. Drawing tools
8. Drawing set
9. Drawing papers
10. Erasers
11. Series of pencils
12. Drawing board
References
7. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing: Plane and Solid Geometry.
Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
8. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd.,
Anand.
9. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age
International Publ., New Delhi.
10. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing. B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
11. Textbook of Engineering Drawing Second Edition K. Venkata Reddy Prof. & HOD of
Mechanical Engineering Dept. C.R. Engineering College
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This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to produce solid
geometry drawings. Knowledge on how to develop and interpret patterns is learnt and exercised in
this learning outcome
Performance Standard
Information sheet
Methods of development
The method to be followed for making the development of a solid depends upon the nature of its
lateral surfaces. Based on the classification of solids, the following are the methods of
development.
i. Parallel-line Development
It is used for developing prisms and single curved surfaces like cylinders in which all the edges /
generators of lateral surfaces are parallel to each other.
Orthographic views
The development of the lateral surface of a cone is a sector of a circle. The radius and length
of the arc are equal to the slant height and circumference of the base of the cone respectively.
The included angle of the sector is given by (r / s) x 360°, where r is the radius of the base of
the cone and s is the true length.
Ducts, pipe joints, smoke stacks, boilers, containers, machine castings etc., involve intersection of
surfaces. Sheet metal work required for the fabrication of the above objects necessitates the
preparation of the development of the joints objects. Orthographic drawings of lines and curves of
intersection of surfaces must be prepared first for the accurate development of objects.
When a prism penetrates another prism, plane surface of one prism intersects the plane surfaces of another prism and hence the
lines of intersection will be straight lines. In these cases, lines on the surface of one of the solids need not necessarily be drawn as
it is done with cylinders. Instead, the points of intersections of the edges with the surface are located by mere inspection. These
points are projected in the other view and the lines of intersection obtained.
Learning activities
iv. Divide the circle in the top view into twelve equal parts. Project the division points to the front view and draw the
generators. Mark points a', b' and b'1, c' and c'1 etc. in which the generators are cut.
Cut-off the arc so that it subtends the angle ϴ at the centre and divide it into twelve equal parts.
xi. Step-off with a bow-divider, twelve equal divisions on the arc, each equal to one of the divisions of the base-circle.
(This will give an approximate length of the circumference. Note that the base-circle should not be divided into less than twelve
equal parts.)
xii. Join the division-points with 0, thus completing the development of the whole cone with twelve generators shown
xiii. The truncated portion of the cone may be deducted from this development by marking the positions of points at which
generators are cut and then drawing a curve through them. For example, generators o'2' and o'12' in the front view are cut
at points b' and b'1 which coincide with each other. The true length of o' b' may be obtained by drawing a line through b',
parallel to the base and cutting o'7' at b". Then o'b" is the true length of o'b'.
xiv. Mark points B and B1 on generators O2 and O-12 respectively, such that OB = 0B1 = o' b". Locate all points in the same
way and draw a smooth curve through them. The figure enclosed this curve and the arc is the development of the truncated
cone.
Self-assessment
7. The bounding box method for setting up an isometric drawing helps the drafter ________.
9. In the section view, the areas that would have been in actual contact with the cutting plane are shown with:
A. A cutting plane line
B. Section lining
C. Visible lines
D. Lines and arrows
c) d)
References
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to produce orthographic and pictorial drawings.
Performance Standard
vi. Symbols and abbreviations are identified and their meaning interpreted according to standard drawing conventions
vii. First and third angle orthographic drawings are interpreted and produced in accordance with the standard conventions
viii. Orthographic elevations are dimensioned in accordance with standard conventions
ix. Isometric drawings are interpreted and produced in accordance with standard conventions
x. Assembly drawing is produced and interpreted in line with the operating standards
Information sheet
Definitions
Projections
angle projection.
'ORTHO' means right angle and orthographic means right angled drawing. When the projectors are perpendicular to the plane on
which the projection is obtained, it is known as orthographic projection. It is in two dimensions (2D). It uses multiple views of
the object, from points of view rotated about the object's center through increments of 90°. The views are positioned relative
©TVET CDACC 2021 193
to each other according to either of two schemes: first- Angle or third-Angle projection. In each, the appearances of views
may be thought of as being projected onto planes that form a transparent "box" around the object.
First-Angle Projection
In first-angle projection, each view of the object is projected in the direction (sense) of sight of the object, onto
the interior walls of the box
In third-angle projection, each view of the object is projected opposite to the direction (sense) of sight, onto the (transparent)
exterior walls of the box in the figure below.
To produce a sectional view, a cutting plane is imagined cutting through the part, as shown in fig. (a). Picture the two halves of the
object pulled apart, exposing the interior construction, as shown in fig. (b). In this case, we will look toward the left half of the object
in the section view. This sectional view replaces the right-side view.
Full Sections
The section produced by cutting through the entire object is called a full Section, as shown in fig. (c) below.
The cutting-plane line is shown as a special pattern. The arrows at the ends of the cutting plane line indicate the direction of sight
for the section view. We can think the cutting-plane line as showing the edge view of the cutting plane.
When a cutting-plane line coincides with a centerline, the cutting-plane line takes precedence.
Figures below show two line patterns used to show the cutting-plane line. Arrowheads indicate the direction in which the cut object
is viewed.
Sectional views often replace standard views. As figures shown, the cutting plane is a frontal plane and appears as a line in the top
view. The arrows at the ends of cutting-plane line point in the direction of sight for front section. The result is called a front section,
or front view in section, since it replaces the front view in the drawing.
A section-lined area is always completely bounded by a visible outline never by a hidden line. The cross hatching in all hatched
areas must be parallel in a sectional view of a single object, along or in assembly.
Cross-hatching patterns, shown in Fig. 7.6 are used to present general material types. Make hatching lines at 45 degrees with
horizontal, unless they look better at a different angle.
In figures above, cross-hatching at 45 degrees with horizontal would be nearly parallel or nearly perpendicular to a prominent feature.
In this case, the hatching appears better drawn at 30 degrees, 60 degrees, or some other angle.
Symmetrical objects can be sectioned using a cutting plane passing halfway through an object, resulting in a half section. A half
section exposes the interior of one half of the object and still shows the exterior of the other half. Half sections are very useful in
undimensioned assembly drawing since they show both internal and external construction on the same view.
In general, hidden lines are omitted from both halves of a half section. However, they may be used in the unsectioned half if necessary
for dimensioning.
Often, only a partial section of a view is needed to expose interior shapes. Such a section, limited by a break line, is called a broken-
out section. In the first figure, a full of half section is not necessary. A broken-out section is sufficient to explain the construction.
In the second figure, a half section would have caused the removal of half the keyway. The keyway is preserved by breaking out
around it. In this case, the section is limited partly by a break line and partly by a centerline (i.e., break-around keyway).
The shape of the cross-section of a bar, arm, spoke, or other elongated object may be shown by means of a revolved section.
Revolved sections are made by assuming a plane perpendicular to the centerline or axis of the bar or other object, and then revolving
the plane through 90 degrees about a centerline at right angles to the axis.
A removed section is a section that is not direct projection from the view containing the cutting plane – it is located somewhere else
in the drawing.
Removed sections
In sectioning irregular objects, we may show features that do not lie in a straight line by offsetting, or bending the cutting plane.
Such a section is called an offset section.
In figure (a) the cutting plane is offset in several places to include the hole at the left end, one of the parallel slots, the rectangular
recess, and one of the holes at the right end.
To avoid a false impression of thickness and solidity, ribs, webs, gear teeth, and other similar flat features are not sectioned, even
though the cutting plane passes along the center plane of the feature.
For example, in figure at right the cutting plane A-A passes through the long dimension of the vertical web, or rib, but as figure a
shows, the web is not section lines. Such thin features should not be section lined, even though the cutting plane passes through
them.
To include in a section certain angled features, the cutting plane may be bent to pass through those features. The plane and features
are then imagined to revolve into the original plane.
For example, in figure below the cutting plane bends to pass through the angled arm and then is aligned to a vertical position, where
it is projected to the sectional view.
If space is limited on the paper or to save drafting time, partial views may be used in connection with sectioning. Figures (a) and (b)
only show half views of the top view. In each case the back half of the object in the circular view is shown to expose the back portion
of the object for viewing in section.
Another method of drawing a partial view is to break out much of the circular view, retaining only those features that are needed for
minimum representation, as shown in figure (c).
Where an intersection is small or unimportant in a section, it is standard practice to disregard the true projection of the figure of
intersection, as shown in a and c. Larger figures of intersection may be projected, as shown in fig. (b), or approximated by circular
arcs, as shown for the smaller hole in fig. (d).
Note that the larger hole K is the same diameter as the vertical hole. In such cases the curves of intersection, or ellipses, appear as
straight lines, as shown.
To shorten a view of an elongated object, whether in section or not, conventional breaks are recommended, as shown below.
Introduction
A drawing which displays the parts of a machine or a machine unit assembled in their relative working positions
is known as assembly drawing.
Layout assembly
This is an assembly drawing showing how the parts are assembled with their basic proportions (dimensions).
Installation assembly
This is prepared for the installation or erection of a machine. This is also sometimes known as an outline assembly.
A complete set of working drawings of a machine comprises of detailed drawings, giving all necessary
information for the production of individual parts and assembly drawing showing the location of each part. The
assembly drawing should be ready before the detailed drawings are accepted as finished and the blue-prints are
made.
General assembly
It comprises of the detailed drawings of the individual parts, sub-assembly and the assembly drawings of the
machine
(vi) Selection of views: The main or important view which is usually in section should show all the individual
parts and their relative locations. Additional views are shown only when they add necessary information.
(vii) Sectioning: The parts should be sectioned according to the requirements (i.e. half-section or partial
section) to show important assembly details. Code of the BIS ( SP:46-1988) for general engineering
drawings must be observed
(viii)Dotted lines: The dotted lines should be omitted from the assembly drawing when a proper section is
taken. If the view of a part is drawn by the half-section, then in un section portion of the view, the dotted
lines may be drawn to clarify details of the part.
(ix) Dimensions: The overall dimensions and centre-to centre distances showing the relationship of parts to
the machine as a whole, are sometimes shown.
(x) Detailed dimensions are given on working assembly drawings when the detailed drawings are not
prepared.
Bill of Materials
Bill of materials: Each part of the machine is identified on assembly drawing by the leader line and number,
which are used in the detail drawing and in the bill of material. The height of the number may be
Suggested approach
3. Preparing an assembly form exploded view is easy task as clue to the position and sequence is available
4. For preparing from orthographic view of the individual components some skill is needed
The suggested approach is
(xii) Study functional requirements of each component and their inter relationship. • Learn the actual working
of a machine.
(xiii)Study carefully the views of each component in the detail drawing and decide the relative location of
each part for the proper functioning of the machine.
(xiv) Decide the mating dimensions between two components which are required to be assembled.
(xv) Prepare free-hand sketch of the main view or an important view (generally front-elevation). Add
additional views, if necessary.
(xvi) Select a suitable scale for the entire assembly drawing.
(xvii) Lay out the views of the assembly drawing so that it become easier to understand.
(xviii) Prepare the bill of materials.
(xix) Label each component by the leader-line and number it.
Machine drawing
It is pertaining to machine parts or components. It is presented through a number of orthographic views, so that
the size and shape of the component is fully understood. Part drawings and assembly drawings belong to this
classification. An example of a machine drawing is given in the tigure below.
A production drawing, also referred to as working drawing, should furnish all the dimensions, limits and special
finishing processes such as heat treatment, honing, lapping, surface finish, etc., to guide the craftsman on the shop
floor in producing the component. The title should also mention the material used for the product, number of parts
required for the assembled unit, etc. Since a craftsman will ordinarily make one component at a time, it is advisable
to prepare the production drawing of each component on a separate sheet. However, in some cases the drawings
of related components may be given on the same sheet. Figure below represents an example of a production
drawing.
A drawing that shows the various parts of a machine in their correct working locations is an assembly drawing as
shown in the figure below There are several types of such drawings.
Design Assembly Drawing When a machine is designed, an assembly drawing or a design layout is first drawn to
clearly visualise the performance, shape and clearances of various parts comprising the machine.
It is usually made for simple machines, comprising of a relatively smaller number of simple parts. All the
dimensions and information necessary for the construction of such parts and for the assembly of the parts are given
directly on the assembly drawing. Separate views of specific parts in enlargements, showing the fitting of parts
together, may also be drawn in addition to the regular assembly drawing.
Many assemblies such as an automobile, lathe, etc., are assembled with many pre-assembled components as well
as individual parts. These pre-assembled units are known as sub-assemblies. A sub-assembly drawing is an
On this drawing, the location and dimensions of few important parts and overall dimensions of the assembled unit
are indicated. This drawing provides useful information for assembling the machine, as this drawing reveals all
parts of a machine in their correct working position.
Special assembly drawings are prepared for company catalogues. These drawings show only the pertinent details
and dimensions that would interest the potential buyer. Fig. 1.4 shows a typical catalogue drawing, showing the
overall and principal dimensions. Assembly Drawings for instruction manuals These drawings in the form of
assembly drawings, are to be used when a machine, shipped away in assembled condition, is knocked down in
order to check all the parts before reassembly and installation elsewhere. These drawings have each component
numbered on the job. Figure below shows a typical example of such a drawing.
Main switch(8)
Clamping handle(17)
Lamp switch(9)
In some cases, exploded pictorial views are supplied to meet instruction manual requirements. These drawings
generally find a place in the parts list section of a company instruction manual. Figure shows drawings of this type
which may be easily understood even by those with less experience in the reading of drawings; because in these
exploded views, the parts are positioned in the sequence of assembly, but separated from each other.
Rough castings and forgings are sent to the machine shop for finishing operation. Since the machinist is not
interested in the dimensions and information of the previous stages, a machine shop shown in figure below.
Schematic assembly drawing.
Pictorial Drawing
Isometric Drawing
• Cavalier
• Cabinet
The following are the relations between the lines in isometric projection
• The lines that are parallel on the object are parallel in the isometric projection.
• Vertical lines on the object appear vertical in the isometric projection.
• Horizontal lines on the object are drawn at an angle of 3 0° with the horizontal in the isometric
projection.
• A line parallel to an isometric axis is called an isometric line and it is fore shortened to 82%.
• A line which is not parallel to any isometric axis is called non-isometric line and the extent of
foreshortening of non-isometric lines are different if their inclinations with the vertical planes are
different.
• Box construction
• Four center method
Oblique Drawing
In oblique projection, the front face of the object appears in its true size and shape, as it is placed parallel to the
picture plane. The receding lines representing the other two faces are usually drawn at 30°, 45° or 60° to the
horizontal, 45° being the most common practice.
Oblique projections are classified as cavalier, cabinet.
i. Enclose the circle in a square 1-2-3-4 and draw diagonals. Also draw lines YA horizontally and XA
vertically.
ii. To draw the isometric view of the square 1-2-3-4
iii. Mark the mid points of the sides of the square as B 0 F and H.
iv. Locate the points X and Y on lines 1-4 and 1-2 respectively.
v. Through the point X, draw A X parallel to line 1-2 to get point A on the diagonal 1-3. The point A can
be obtained also by drawing Y A through the point Y and parallel to the line 1-4.
vi. Similarly obtain other points C, E and G
vii. Draw a smooth curve passing through all the points to obtain the required isometric view of the
horizontal circular plane.
viii. Similarly obtain isometric view of the vertical circular plane
As already mentioned, angles, circles and irregular curves on the surfaces, parallel to the picture plane, appear in
true size and shape. However, when they are located on receding faces, the construction methods, similar to
isometric drawing may be followed.
For example, the method of representing a circle on an oblique face may be carried out by offset method and the
four center method cannot be used. In case of cabinet oblique, the method and the result is the same as that of
isometric drawing, since the angle of the receding axis can be the same as that of isometric axis.
Shows circles of same size in both isometric and oblique projections using 45° for the receding axis for oblique
projections.
Curved features of all sorts on the receding faces or inclined surfaces may be plotted either by the off-set or co-
ordinate methods as shown in the figure below.
iii. The following figures are in isometric view. Draw the orthographic views in first angle.
A pentagonal pyramid of base side 40 mm and axis length 80mm is resting on HP on its base with one of its base
side parallel to VP. It is cut by a plane inclined at 30° to HP and perpendicular to VP and is bisecting the axis.
Draw its front view, sectional top view, and the true shape of section.
Draw the projection of the pyramid in the given position. The top view is drawn and the front view is projected.
To draw the cutting plane, front view and sectional top view
1. Draw the VT of the cutting plane inclined at 30° to XY line and passing through the midpoint of J the axis.
2. As a result of cutting, new comers 1', 2', 3', 4' and 5' are obtained on slant edges a '0', b '0', c '0', d'o' and e '0'
respectively.
4. Project the new points to get 1,2,3,4 and 5 in the top view on the respective slant edges.
5. Note that 2' is extended horizontally to meet the extreme slant edge a ' 0 ' at m', it is projected to meet ao in top
view at m. Considering 0 as centre, om as radius, draw an arc to get 2 on bo
II. Draw the new reference. Line x1 y1 parallel to VT of the cutting plane.
1.2.3.4 Projectors from 1', 2’ etc. are drawn perpendicular to x1 y1 line.
1.2.3.5 The distance of point 1 in top view from XY line is measured and marked from x1 y1 in the projector
passing through 1' to get 1'1 This is repeated to get 21 ,31 etc.
II. Join these points and draw hatching lines to show the true shape of section.
Learning activity 3
Assemble the following parts and Draw full sectional view of the assembly for the following:
Self-assessment
E. An orthographic drawing
F. An isometric drawing
G. A perspective drawing
H. An oblique drawing
20. This drawing is an example of:
E. An orthographic drawing
F. An isometric drawing
10.0
30.0
100.0
25.0 70.0 40.0
E. 30
F. 70
G. 10
H. 20
7. Drawing tools
8. Drawing set
9. Drawing papers
10. Erasers
11. Series of pencils
12. Drawing board
References
6. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing: Plane and Solid Geometry. Charotar Publ.
House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
7. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
8. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International Publ.,
New Delhi.
9. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing . B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
This learning outcome is intended to equip the trainee with competence on how to apply CAD packages.
In this learning outcome AutoCAD has been selected to be the dominant CAD software to be learnt.
Performance Standard
Information sheet
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the use of an application to help create or optimize a design. Therefore, CAD
software allows engineers, architects, designers, and others to create precision drawings or technical illustrations
in 2D or 3D. This category of software can increase productivity, improve quality, and maximize organization by
creating a documentation database for manufacturing.
CAD software has a host of applications, including the design of manufacturing parts, electronic circuit boards,
prototypes for 3D printers, and buildings. Typically, this software uses either traditional vector-based graphics or
raster graphics which show how finished objects would actually look.
CAD software can also facilitate the flow from the design process to the manufacturing process. This software can
simulate the movement of a part through the manufacturing process in three dimensions. As this software becomes
ever better at simulating the manufacturing process, specialized software for designing the manufacturing process
and controlling machine tools called Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) has become integrated with CAD as
a single platform.
AutoCAD
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Basics
Viewing
Pan and zoom in a drawing, and control the order of overlapping objects.
Geometry
Create basic geometric objects such as lines, circles, and hatched areas.
Precision
Layers
Properties
You can assign properties such as color and linetype to individual objects, or as default properties assigned to
layers.
Modifying
Perform editing operations such as erase, move, and trim on the objects in a drawing.
Blocks
Insert symbols and details into your drawings from commercial online sources or from your own designs.
Layouts
Display one or more scaled views of your design on a standard-size drawing sheet called a layout.
Create notes, labels, bubbles, and callouts. Save and restore style settings by name
Dimensions
Printing
Output a drawing layout to a printer, a plotter, or a file. Save and restore the printer settings for each layout.
Review the basic AutoCAD controls. After you launch AutoCAD, click the Start Drawing button to begin a new
drawing.
At the heart of AutoCAD is the Command window, which is normally docked at the bottom of the
application window. The Command window displays prompts, options, and messages.
You can enter commands directly in the Command window instead of using the ribbon, toolbars, and
menus.
When several options are available, such as in the example below, make your choice by clicking the
correct option or using the arrow keys and then pressing Enter or the Spacebar to confirm your selection.
Most people use a mouse as their pointing device, but other devices have equivalent controls.
Here’s a Tip:
Depending on where your cursor is located, different menus will display relevant commands and options.
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New Drawings
You can easily conform to industry or company standards by specifying settings for text, dimensions,
linetypes, and several other features. For example, this backyard deck design displays two different
dimension styles.
All these settings can be saved in a drawing template file. Click New to choose from several drawing
Template files:
For imperial drawings that assume your units are inches, use acad.dwt or acadlt.dwt.
For metric units that assume your units are millimeters, use acadiso.dwt or acadltiso.dwt.
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The “Tutorial” template files in the list are examples of the architectural or mechanical design templates
using both imperial (i) and metric (m) measurements.
Most companies use drawing template files that conform to company standards, and they will often use
different drawing template files depending on the project or client.
You can save any drawing (.dwg) file as a drawing template (.dwt) file. You can also open any existing
drawing template
If you work independently, you can develop your drawing template files to suit your working preferences,
adding settings for additional features as you become familiar with them.
To modify an existing drawing template file, click Open, specify Drawing Template (*.dwt) in the Select
File dialog box, and choose the template file. Important:
If your company has already established a set of drawing template files, check with your CAD manager
before modifying any of them.
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Units
When you first start a drawing, you need to decide what the length of one unit represents an inch, a foot,
a centimeter, a kilometer, or some other unit of length. For example, the objects below could represent
two buildings that are each 125 feet long, or they could represent a section from a mechanical part that is
measured in millimeters.
After you decide what unit of length that you want to use, the UNITS command lets you control several
unit display settings including the following:
Format (or Type): For example, a decimal length of 6.5 can be set to display as a fractional length of 6-
1/2 instead.
Precision: For example, a decimal length of 6.5 can be set to display as 6.50, 6.500, or 6.5000.
If you plan to work in feet and inches, use the UNITS command to set the unit type to Architectural, and
then when you create objects, specify their lengths in inches. If you plan to use metric units, leave the unit
type set to Decimal. Changing the unit format and precision does not affect the internal precision of your
drawing, it affects only how lengths, angles, and coordinates are displayed in the user interface
Here’s a Tip:
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If you need to change the UNITS settings, make sure that you save the drawing as a drawing template file
(.dwt). Otherwise, you will need to change the UNITS
Model Scale
Always create your models at full size (1:1 scale). The term model refers to the geometry of your design.
A drawing includes the model geometry along with the views, notes, dimensions, callouts, tables, and the
title block displayed in the layout.
You can specify the scaling that is necessary to print a drawing on a standard-sized sheet later, when you
create the layout.
Recommendations
To open Help for information about the command in progress, press F1.
To see various options, select an object and right-click or right-click a user interface element.
For example GUIDE TO AUTOCAD BASICS: PRINTING e, if you click in the drawing area before
entering a command, you will see something like the following:
Here’s a Tip:
Viewing
Zoom in on a drawing to better control the order of overlapping objects. The easiest way to change your
view is by using the mouse wheel.
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Zoom in or out by rolling the wheel.
Pan a view in any direction by holding the wheel down while moving your mouse.
Zoom in on a specific area for greater detail holding your mouse over the area and clicking the wheel
twice.
Here’s a Tip:
When you zoom in or out, the location of the cursor is important. Think of your
cursor as a magnifying glass. For example, if you position the cursor in the upper-right area of the floor
plan as shown below, zooming in magnifies the dressing room without shifting the view.
NOTE: If you cannot zoom or pan any more, type REGEN in the Command window and press Enter.
This command regenerates the drawing display and resets the extents available for panning and z
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Overlapping Objects
If you create objects that overlap, you might need to change which objects are displayed on top or in front
of the others. For example, if you want the yellow highway to cross the blue river rather than the other
way around,
You can access several draw order options from the Modify panel on the ribbon. Click to expand the
Modify panel, and then click the down-arrow as shown below.
The draw order options that are listed include sending all hatches to the back, all text to the front, and so
on.
Geometry
Create basic geometric objects such as lines, circles, and hatched areas.
You can create many different types of geometric objects in AutoCAD, but you only need to know a few
of them for most 2D drawings.
NOTE: If you want to simplify the display while creating geometric objects, press F12 to turn off dynamic
input.
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Lines
The line is the most basic and common object in AutoCAD drawings. To draw a line, click the Line tool.
Alternatively, you can type LINE or just L in the Command window, and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
To specify the starting point for this line, you would type in the coordinates 0,0. It is a good idea to locate
one corner of your model at 0,0, which is called the origin point. To locate additional points, you could
specify additional X,Y coordinate
locations in the drawing area, however more efficient methods for specifying points are available, and will
be presented in the Precision topic.
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After you specify the next point, the LINE command automatically repeats itself, and it keeps
prompting you for additional points.
The user coordinate system (UCS) icon indicates the direction of the positive X and Y axis for any
coordinates that you enter, and it also defines the horizontal and vertical directions in a drawing. In some
2D drawings, it can be convenient to click, drag, and rotate the UCS to change the origin point, and the
horizontal and vertical directions.
Grid Display
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Some people like working with grid lines as a reference, while others prefer working in a blank area. To
turn off the grid display, press F7. Even with the grid turned off, you can force your cursor to snap to grid
increments by pressing F9.
Circles
The default option of the CIRCLE command requires you to specify a center point and a radius.
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The other circle options are available from the drop-down:
Alternatively, you can also enter CIRCLE or just C in the Command window and click to choose an
option. If you do, you can specify a center point, or you can click one of the highlighted command options
as shown below.
Circles can be useful as reference geometry. For example, you can see that the two doors in the illustration
can interfere with each other.
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Polylines and Rectangles
A polyline is a connected sequence of line or arc segments that is created as a single object.
Continuous paths for which you need to know the total length
Polylines can have a constant width or they can have different starting and ending widths. After you
specify the first point of the polyline, you can use the Width option to specify the width of all subsequently
created segments. You can change the width value at any time, even as you create new segments.
Here is an example of a printed
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Polylines and Rectangles
Polylines can have different starting and ending widths for each segment as shown here:
Simply click two diagonal points for the rectangle as illustrated. If you use this method, turn on grid snap
(F9) for precision.
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In AutoCAD, a hatch is a single, compound object that covers a specified area with a pattern of lines, dots,
shapes, a solid fill color, or a gradient fill.
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When you start the HATCH command, the ribbon temporarily displays the Hatch Creation tab. On this
tab, you can choose from over 70 industry-standard imperial and ISO hatch patterns along with many
specialized options.
The simplest procedure is to choose a hatch pattern and scale from the ribbon, and click within any area
that is completely enclosed by objects. You must specify the scale factor for the hatch in order to control
its size and spacing.
After you create a hatch, you can move the bounding objects to adjust the hatch area, or you can delete
one or more of the bounding objects to create partially bounded hatches:
Here’s a Tip:
If you set a solid or gradient fill hatch pattern, also consider setting a transparency level
Here are some examples of how you can use solid-fill hatches:
Here’s a Tip:
If you need to align the pattern in a hatch, which might be the case with the decking boards above, use the
Set Origin option to specify an alignment point.
Precision
Polar tracking: Snap to the closest preset angle and specify a distance along that angle.
Locking angles: Lock to a single, specified angle and specify a distance along that angle.
Object snaps: Snap to precise locations on existing objects, such as an endpoint of a polyline, the
midpoint of a line, or the center point of a circle.
Coordinate entry: Specify a location by its Cartesian or polar coordinates, either absolute or relative.
The three most commonly used features are polar tracking, locking angles, and object snaps.
Polar Tracking
When you need to specify a point, such as when you create a line, you can use polar tracking to guide the
movement of your cursor in certain directions.
For example, after you specify the first point of the line below, move your cursor to the right, and then
enter a distance in the Command window to specify a precise horizontal length for the line.
By default, polar tracking is turned on and guides your cursor in a horizontal or vertical direction (0 or 90
degrees).
Locking Angles
If you need to draw a line at a specified angle, you can lock the angle for the next point. For example, if
the second point of a line needs to be created at a 45 degree angle, you would enter ‘<45’ in the Command
window.
After you move your cursor in the desired direction along the 45-degree angle, you can enter the length
of the line.
Object Snaps
By far, the most important way for you to specify precise locations on objects is to use object snaps. In
the following illustration, several different kinds of object snaps are represented by markers.
Object snaps become available during a command whenever AutoCAD prompts you to specify a point.
For example, if you start a new line and move your cursor near the endpoint of an existing line, the cursor
will automatically snap to it.
Set Default Object Snaps
Enter the OSNAP command to set the default object snaps, which are also called “running” object snaps.
For example, you might find it useful to turn on the Midpoint object snap by default.
Recommendations
At any prompt for a point, you can specify a single object snap that overrides all other object snap
settings. Hold down Shift, right-click in the drawing area, and choose an object snap from the Object Snap
menu. Then move the cursor to select a location on an object.
Make sure that you zoom in close enough to avoid mistakes. In a densely populated model, snapping to
the wrong object will result in an error that can propagate throughout your model.
Object Snap Tracking
During a command, you can align points both horizontally and vertically from object snap locations. In
the following illustration, you first hover over endpoint 1 and then hover over endpoint
2. When you move your cursor near location 3, the cursor locks into the horizontal and vertical location
shown.
You can now finish creating the line, circle, or other object that you were creating from that location.
Recheck your geometry to catch mistakes early. Enter the DIST command (or just DI) to measure the
distance between any two points in your model.
For example, you might need to find the clearance between two points shown, which might represent the
corner of a wall and a small table, or perhaps a 2D section of a plastic part and a wire.
After you enter DIST, click the endpoint on the corner (1). Next, hold down Shift as you right-click, and
then choose Perpendicular from the object snap menu. Finally, click the circle (2).
Handy Function Key Reference
All keyboard function keys have assignments in AutoCAD. The ones that are most commonly turned on
and off are indicated with a key.
F11 Object Snap Tracking Tracks the cursor horizontally or vertically from object snap locations.
Layers
When a drawing becomes visually complex, you can hide objects that you currently do not need to see.
In the drawing below, the doors and electrical wiring were temporarily hidden by hiding their layers.
Layers
You gain this level of control by organizing the objects in your drawing on layers that are associated with
a specific function or purpose. It might be helpful to think of layers as clear plastic sheets:
Enforce linetype, color, and other property standards for each layer
Layer Controls
To see how a drawing is organized, use the LAYER command to open the Layer Properties Manager.
You can either enter LAYER or LA in the Command window, or you can click the Layer Properties tool
on the ribbon.
Here’s what the Layer Properties Manager displays for this drawing.
As indicated, layer 10 WALLS is the current layer. All new objects are automatically placed on that layer.
In the list of layers, the green check next to layer 10 WALLS indicates that it is the current layer.
In the column labeled On, notice that the light bulb icons for two layers are dark. This indicates that these
layers were turned off to hide the doors and electrical wiring in the floor plan.
Notice that each layer name starts with a two-digit number. This convention makes it easy to control the
order of the layers because their order does not depend on the alphabet.
Here’s a Tip:
For complex drawings, you might want to consider a more elaborate layer naming standard. For example,
layer names could begin with 3 digits followed by a naming code that accommodates multiple floors in a
building, project numbers, sets of survey and property data, and so on.
Practical Recommendations
Layer 0 is the default layer that exists in all drawings and has some esoteric properties. Instead of using
this layer, it’s best to create your own layers with meaningful names.
Any drawing that contains at least one dimension object automatically includes a reserved layer named
Defpoints.
Create a layer for behind-the-scenes construction geometry, reference geometry, and notes that you
usually do not need to see or print.
Create a layer for layout viewports. Information about layout viewports is covered in the Layouts topic.
Create a layer for all hatches and fills. This lets you to turn them all on or off in one action.
Layer Settings
The following are the most commonly used layer settings in the Layer Properties Manager. Click the icon
to turn the setting on and off.
Turn off Layers: This will help reduce the visual complexity of your drawing while you work
Freeze Layers: Freeze layers that you do not need to access for a while. Freezing layers is similar to turning
them off, but improves performance in very large drawings.
Lock Layers: Locking layers prevents accidental changes to the objects on those layers.
Controls in the Layer Properties Manager
To create a new layer, click the button shown and enter the name of the new layer. To make a different
layer the current one, click the layer and then click the indicated button.
The Layer Properties Manager takes up a lot of space, and you may not always need to access all the
options. For quick access to the most common layer controls, use the controls on the ribbon. When no
objects are selected, the Layers panel on the Home tab displays the name of the current layer as shown
here.
Occasionally, check to make sure that the objects you create will be on the correct layer. It’s easy to forget
to do this, but it’s also easy to set. Click the drop-down arrow to display a list of layers, and then click a
layer on the list to make it the current layer. You can also click on any layer setting icon in the list to
It’s important to either establish or conform to a company-wide layer standard. With a layer standard,
drawing organization will be more logical, consistent, compatible, and maintainable over time and across
departments. Layer standards are essential for team projects.
If you create a standard set of layers and save them in a drawing template file, those layers will be available
when you start a new drawing, and you can start working immediately. Additional information about
drawing template files is presented in the Basics topic.
Properties
You can assign properties such as color and linetype to individual objects, or as default properties assigned
to layers.
In the following drawing, the walls, exterior stone facing, doors, fixtures, cabinetry, HVAC, electrical,
and text were created using different colors to help differentiate them.
The Properties palette is an essential tool. You can open it with the PROPERTIES command (enter PR
in the Command window), you can press Ctrl + 1, or you can click the tiny arrow in the Properties panel
on the Home tab whichever you prefer.
GUIDETOAUTOCADBASICS:PROPERTIES
The Properties palette displays a list of all the important property settings. You can click any of the
available fields to change the current settings. In the following example, if no objects are selected, the
current color will be changed from ByLayer to Red and the UCS icon will be turned off.
Verify and Change Object Properties
You can use the Properties palette to verify and change property settings for selected objects. If you click
an object in your drawing to select it, here is what you might see in the Properties palette.
Notice that the current properties for the selected object are displayed in the palette. You can change any
of these properties by clicking and changing the setting.
A property that is set to “ByLayer” inherits its setting from the layer. In the previous example, the objects
that were created on the 20 ELECTRICAL layer are purple because that is the default color of the objects
on that layer.
If you select several objects, only their common properties are listed in the Properties palette. If you
change one of these properties, all the selected objects will change in one operation. Selecting objects is
covered in more detail in the Modifying topic
The Properties panel works the same way as the Properties palette. When you select an object, the current
property settings are replaced by the properties assigned to the selected object, and you can use this panel
to easily change the properties of one or more selected objects.
For a fast way to copy the properties of a selected object to other objects, use the Match Properties tool,
or enter MATCHPROP or MA in the Command window.
Select the source object, and then select all of the objects that you want to modify.
Linetypes
Dashed and other non-continuous linetypes are assigned from the Properties panel. You must first load a
linetype before you can assign it.
Click Load. Choose one or more linetypes that you want to use. Notice that dashed (non-continuous)
linetypes come in several preset sizes.
Specify a different “global scale factor” for all linetypes—the larger the value, the longer the dashes and
spaces. Click OK.
Once you’ve loaded the linetypes that you plan to use, you can select any object and specify a linetype
from the Properties panel or the Properties palette. Alternatively, you can specify a default linetype for
any layer in the Layer
Properties Manager.
Lineweights
The Lineweight property provides a way to display different thicknesses for selected objects. The
thickness of the lines remains constant regardless of the scale of the view. In a layout, lineweights are
always displayed and printed in real-world units. Lineweights can also be assigned from the Properties
panel.
You can leave the lineweight set to ByLayer, or you can specify a value that overrides the layer’s
lineweight. In some cases, the lineweight previews look the same because they are displayed in
approximated pixel widths on a monitor. However, they will print at the correct thickness.
To control the display of lineweights, click the Lineweight Settings button at the bottom of the lineweight
list. In the Lineweight Settings dialog box, you can choose whether you want to display or hide
lineweights.
Regardless of the display setting, lineweights will always be printed at the correct scale.
Here’s a Tip:
It’s usually best to leave lineweights turned off while you work. Heavy lineweights can obscure nearby
objects when you use object snaps. You might want to turn
Modifying
Perform editing operations such as erase, move, and trim on the objects in a drawing.
The most common modifying tools are located on the Modify panel of the Home tab. Take a minute to
look through them.
Erase
To erase an object, use the ERASE command. You can enter E in the Command window, or click the
Erase tool. When you see the cursor change to a square pickbox, click each object that you want to erase,
and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
With a crossing selection, any objects within or touching the green area are selected.
With a window selection, only the objects completely contained within the blue area are selected.
The result is called the selection set, which is the set of objects that will be processed by a command.
Here’s a Tip:
You can easily remove objects from the selection set. For example, if you select 42 objects, and two of
them should not have been
selected, hold down Shift and then select the two that you want to remove. Then, press Enter or the
Spacebar, or right click to end the selection process.
Here’s how you would use the COPY command to lay out a row of decorative tiles. Starting with a
polyline that represents its shape, you need to make copies that are 1/8” apart.
Click the Copy tool or enter CP in the Command window to start the command. From here, you can
choose between two methods, depending on which is more convenient. You will use these two methods
frequently.
The second tile needs to be a total of 9-7/8” + 1/8” = 10” to the right of the original tile. Start by selecting
the tile, pressing Enter or the Spacebar to end your selection, and clicking anywhere in the drawing area
(1). This point does not have to be located on the tile.
Next, move your cursor to the right, relying on the polar tracking angle to keep the direction horizontal,
and then enter 10 for the distance. Press Enter or the Spacebar a second time to end the command.
Another method, one that you will often use when you don’t want to add numbers together, requires two
steps. Enter the COPY command and select the tile as before, but this time click the two endpoints as
shown. These two points also define a distance and direction.
Next, to add the 1/8” space between the tiles, click the Move tool or enter M in the Command window.
The MOVE command is similar to the COPY command. Select the newly copied tile, and press Enter or
the Spacebar. As before, click anywhere in the drawing area and move your cursor to the right. Enter 1/8
or .125 for the distance.
Here’s a Tip:
The two points that define the distance and direction don’t need to be located on the object that you want
to copy. You can use two points specified anywhere in your
You can use the two-point method as a repeating sequence. Let’s say that you want to make more copies
of the circle at the same horizontal distance. Enter the COPY command and select the circle as shown.
Then, using the Center object snap, click the center of circle 1, followed by the center of circle 2, and so
on.
For larger numbers of copies, try experimenting with the Array option of the COPY command. For
example, here’s a linear arrangement of deep foundation piles. From a base point, you specify number of
copies and the center-to-center distance.
Offset
Most models include a lot of parallel lines and curves. Creating them is easy and efficient with the
OFFSET command. Click the OFFSET tool or enter O in the Command window
Select the object (1), specify the offset distance, and click to indicate on which side of the original that
you want the result (2). Here is an example of offsetting a polyline.
Trim and Extend
A popular technique is to use the OFFSET command in combination with the TRIM and EXTEND
commands. In the Command window, you can enter TR for TRIM or EX for EXTEND. Trimming and
extending are some of the most commonly used operations.
In the following illustration, you want to extend the lines that represent the steps for this deck. Enter the
EXTEND command, select the boundary, and then press Enter or the Spacebar.
Pressing Enter or the Spacebar indicates that you’ve finished selecting the boundaries, and that you’re
now ready to select the objects to be extended. Here’s a Tip:
A faster method is to press Enter or the Spacebar right away instead of selecting any boundary objects.
The result is that all objects are available as possible boundaries
Next, select the objects to be extended (near the ends to be extended), and then press Enter or the Spacebar
to end the command.
As you can see, the selected lines are extended to the boundary.
The TRIM command follows the same steps, except that when you select the objects to trim, you select
the portions to trim away.
Mirror
The following illustration comes from a tile project. The walls in this residential bathroom are flattened
out to be able to lay out the tile pattern and estimate the number of tiles needed.
You can save a lot of work by taking advantage of the symmetry between the left and right walls. All you
need to do is create the tiles on one wall and then mirror the wall across the center of the room. In the
example below, begin the MIRROR command (or enter
2) to select the geometry on the right wall, press Enter or the Spacebar, and then specify a mirror line (3
and 4) corresponding to the centerline of the bathroom.
Finally, Stretch
You can stretch most geometric objects. This lets you lengthen and shorten parts of your model. For
example, this model might be a gasket or the design for a public park.
Use the STRETCH command (or enter S in the Command window) and select the objects with a crossing
selection as shown below (1 and 2). The crossing selection is mandatory— only the geometry that is
crossed by the crossing selection is stretched. Then click anywhere in the drawing area (3), move the
cursor to the right, and enter 50 as the distance. This distance might represent millimeters or feet.
To shorten the model by a specified amount, you’d move your cursor to the left instead.
Fillet
The FILLET command (enter F in the Command window) creates a rounded corner by creating an arc
that is tangent to two selected objects. Notice that the fillet is created relative to where you select the
objects.
You can create a fillet between most types of geometric objects, including lines, arcs, and polyline
segments.
Here’s a Tip:
If you specify 0 (zero) as the radius of the fillet (imagine a circle shrinking to a radius of 0), the result
trims or extends the selected objects to a sharp corner.
Explode
The EXPLODE command (enter X in the Command window) disassociates a compound object into its
component parts. You can explode objects such as polylines, hatches, and blocks (symbols).
After you explode a compound object, you can modify each resulting individual object.
Edit Polylines
You can choose from several useful options when you want to modify a polyline. The PEDIT command
(enter PE in the Command window) is located on the drop-down list of the Modify panel.
Join two polylines into a single polyline if they share a common endpoint
Convert lines and arcs into a polyline—simply enter PEDIT and select the line or arc
Here’s a Tip:
In some cases, the easiest method to modify a polyline is to explode it, make the modifications, and then
turn the objects back into a polyline using the Join option of the PEDIT command.
Grips
Grips are displayed when you select an object without starting a command. Grips are often handy
for light editing. For example, the line below accidentally snapped to the wrong endpoint. You can
select the misaligned line, click on a grip and then click to specify the correct location.
By default, when you click a grip, you automatically start in **STRETCH** mode as indicated in the
Command window. If you want to explore other ways of editing
Blocks
Insert symbols and details into your drawings from commercial online sources or from your own designs.
In AutoCAD, a block is a collection of objects that are combined into a single named object. The following
are some sample blocks at various scales.
Some of these blocks are realistic representations of objects, some are symbols, and one of them is an
architectural title block for a D-size drawing.
Insert a Block
Typically, each of these blocks is an individual drawing file, perhaps saved in a folder with similar drawing
files. When you need to insert one into your current drawing file, use the INSERT command (or enter I
in the Command window).
Insert a Block
The first time you insert the drawing as a block, you must click Browse to locate the drawing file. Make
sure you organize your blocks into easy-to-find folders.
Once inserted, the block definition is stored in your current drawing. From then on, you can choose it from
the Name drop- down list without needing to click the Browse button.
Here’s a Tip:
The default settings in the Insert dialog box are usually acceptable. After you choose the block name, click
OK, and then specify its location in your drawing. You can rotate it later, if necessary.
Notice that when you insert a block, it is attached to your cursor at the point indicated. This location is
called the insertion point. By default, the insertion point is the origin point (0,0) of the original drawing.
After inserting the block, you can select it and a grip appears. You can easily move and rotate this block
using this grip.
In the following example, a drawing file is inserted into the current drawing to provide a standard detail
view.
NOTE: Inserting a drawing file as a block provides a static reference to the specified drawing. For a
reference that automatically updates, you can attach the drawing with the External References palette
(XREF command) instead.
Instead of creating a drawing file to be inserted as a block, you might want to create a block definition
directly in your current drawing. Use this method if you do not plan to insert the block into any other
drawing. In that case, use the BLOCK command to create the block definition.
For example, this is how you could create a module for a cubicle design.
Select the objects that you created for the block (click 1 and 2).
You can enter the information for steps 3, 4, and 5 into the Block Definition dialog box in any order.
Create a Block Definition (continued)
After creating the block definition, you can insert, copy, and rotate the block as needed.
Using the EXPLODE command, you can explode a block into its component objects if you need to make
changes. In the illustration below, the cubicle on the right was exploded and modified.
In this example, you would probably create a new block definition from the objects in the exploded block.
Layouts
Display one or more scaled views of your design on a standard- size drawing sheet called a layout.
After you finish creating a model at full size, you can switch to a paper space layout to create scaled views
of the model, and to add notes, labels, and dimensions. You can also specify different linetypes and line
widths for display in paper space.
After paper space was introduced, you could click a layout tab to access a space designed specifically for
layouts and scaling. In the following illustration, paper space is active. There are currently only two objects
in paper space: a drawing border block, and a single layout viewport, which displays a view of model
space.
Four Methods for Scaling
There are four different methods in AutoCAD that are used to scale views, notes, labels, and dimensions.
Each method has its advantages depending on how the drawing will be used.
The Original Method: You create geometry, annotate, and print from model space.
Dimensions, notes, and labels must all be scaled in reverse. You set the dimension scale to the inverse of
the plot scale. With this method, scaling requires a little math. For example, a common scale used in
architecture is 1/4” = 1’-0” which is 1:48 scale. If a note is to be printed 1/4” high, then it must be created
48 times as large, or 12” high in model space. The same scale factor also applies to dimensions, and an
ARCH D drawing border at that scale is 144 feet long. When the drawing is printed as a D-size sheet,
everything scales down to the correct size.
The Layout Method: You create geometry and annotate in model space, and print from the layout. Set
the dimension scale to 0 and the dimensions will scale automatically.
The Annotative Method: You create geometry in model space, create annotative dimensions, notes, and
labels (using a special annotative style) in model space from the layout, and you print from the layout.
Annotative objects display only in layout viewports that share
NOTE: Many AutoCAD drawings were created with this method, and many companies still use it. Once
everything is set up, the method works well for 2D drawings with single views and inserted details.
the same scale. The dimension scale is automatically set to 0 and all annotative objects scale automatically.
The Trans-Spatial Method: You create geometry in model space, create annotations in paper space on
a layout with dimension scale set to 1, and you print from the layout. This is arguably the easiest, most
direct method, and it is the method of choice for this guide.
Talk to other AutoCAD users in your discipline about these four methods and why they chose the method
that they use.
The first thing you should do when you access a layout tab (1) is right-click the tab (2) and rename it (3)
to something more specific than Layout 1. For a D-size layout, ARCH D or ANSI D might be good
choices.
Next, open the Page Setup Manager (4) to change the paper size displayed in the layout tab.
NOTE: You might be wondering why there are two entries in the list for every sheet size. This is because
some printers and plotters do not recognize the drawing orientation setting.
Layout Viewports
A layout viewport is an object that is created in paper space to display a scaled view of model space. You
can think of it as a closed-circuit TV monitor that displays part of model space. In the illustration, model
space is active and accessible from within the current layout viewport
In a layout, when model space is active, you can pan and zoom, and anything else that you could do on
the Model tab. For example, let’s say that you created a backyard deck design in model space, and now
you want to lay out and print your design from a layout tab.
The view in the layout viewport is not yet set to the correct scale.
Important:
You can switch between paper space and model space by double-clicking inside or outside the layout
viewport.
NOTE: You can use the MVIEW (make view) command to create additional layout viewports in paper
space. With several layout viewports, you can display several views of model space at the same or at
different scales.
Here are the steps to follow if you use the trans-spatial method of annotating your drawing:
Click the layout tab. If you started the drawing with your own custom drawing template file, several tasks
might already have been completed: the layout might already be set to
D-size, and the title block might already have been inserted in the layout.
By default, paper space is active, so double-click within the layout viewport to make the model space
active. Notice that the edge of the layout viewport becomes thicker as a result of switching to model space.
Zoom out and center the model space view by panning. Note that the displayed view will not yet be set to
the correct scale.
Double-click outside the layout viewport to make paper space active again.
Open the Properties palette and then click to select the edge of the layout viewport.
1’-0” from the drop-down list. This action scales your view of model space precisely to the D-size
drawing. You should also set the Display Locked property from No to Yes, which will prevent any
unintentional display changes to the view.
(continued)
Move the layout viewport as needed, and adjust its edges using grips.
Create notes, labels, and dimensions directly in paper space. They will automatically appear at the correct
size.
Turn off the layer on which you created the layout viewport object. This hides the edges of the layout
viewport as shown below.
NOTE: After you have finished dimensioning, you can use the EXPORTLAYOUT command to merge
everything in model and paper space into the model space of a separate drawing file. This operation
creates a drawing file that conforms to the original method of creating the model and all annotations in
model space.
Create notes, labels, bubbles, and callouts. Save and restore style settings by name.
You can create general notes using the MTEXT command (or enter MT in the Command window), which
stands for multiline text. The multiline text tool is available on the Annotation panel.
After you start the MTEXT command, you are prompted to create a “text box” with two diagonal clicks.
As with several other annotation features, multiline text provides a lot of settings. You can save these
settings as a text style
using the STYLE command, and then you can access the text styles you’ve saved by clicking the drop-
down arrow on the Annotation panel. The current text style is displayed at the top of the drop-down list.
To create a new text style, click the Text Style control as shown.
Multileaders
Multileader objects are used to create text with leader lines such as general labels, reference labels,
bubbles, and callouts.
Create a Multilayer
To create a multilayer, use the MLEADER command. Click the Multilayer tool in the Annotation panel
or enter MLD in the Command window. Follow the prompts and options in the Command window. Feel
free to experiment.
After you create a multilayer, select it and then modify it by clicking and moving its grips.
Grip menus appear when you hover over arrowhead and leader grips. From these menus, you can add
leader segments or additional leaders.
You can create your own multileader styles from the drop-down list in the expanded Annotation panel, or
by entering MLEADERSTYLE in the Command window.
For example, to create a “detail callout” style, start the MLEADERSTYLE command. In the Multileader
Styles Manager, click New and choose a descriptive name for the new multileader style. Click the Content
tab, choose Block, and then Detail Callout as shown.
NOTE: As with text styles, once you create one or more multileader styles, save them in your drawing
template files.
Dimensions
Here is an example of several types of dimensions using an architectural dimension style with imperial
units.
Linear Dimensions
You can create horizontal, vertical, aligned, and radial dimensions with the DIM command. The type of
dimension depends on the object that you select and the direction that you drag the dimension line.
The following illustration demonstrates one method for using the DIM command. Once you start the
command, press Enter or the Spacebar, select the line (1), and then click the location of the dimension line
(2).
Linear Dimensions (continued)
For the 8’-0” dimension below, you use another method. You start the DIM command, click two endpoints
(1 and 2) and then the location of the dimension line (3). To line up the dimension lines point 3 was
snapped to the endpoint of the previously created dimension line.
Use the DIM command to create dimensions that are parallel to an object by dragging the dimension line
at an angle rather than horizontally or vertically.
Here’s a Tip:
If points 1 and 2 are not on the same horizontal line, press Shift to force the dimension line to be horizontal.
In addition, if the building or part being dimensioned is at an angle, enter DIMROTATED for that case.
Another Tip:
Because it is easy to accidentally snap to the wrong feature or part of a dimension object, be sure to zoom
In this example, you select the dimension to display its grips. Next, click the grip on the dimension text
and drag it to a new location, or click one of the grips at the end of the dimension line and drag the
dimension line.
Here’s a Tip:
If the changes are more complicated than this, it might be faster simply to delete and then recreate the
dimension.
Dimension Styles
Dimension styles help establish and enforce drafting standards. There are many dimension variables that
can be set with the DIMSTYLE command to control virtually every nuance of the appearance and
behavior of dimensions. All these settings are stored in each dimension style.
The default dimension style is named either Standard (imperial) or ISO-25 (metric). It is assigned to all
dimensions until another style is set as the current dimension style.
The current dimension style name, Hitchhiker in this case, is displayed in the drop-down list of the
Annotation panel.
To open the Dimension Style Manager, click the indicated button. You can create dimension styles that
match nearly any standard, but you will need to invest time into specifying them completely. For this
reason, you should save any dimension styles that you create in one or more drawing template files.
Printing
Output a drawing layout to a printer, a plotter, or a file. Save and restore the printer settings for each
layout.
Originally, people printed text from printers and plotted drawings from plotters. Now, you can perform
both with either device, so this guide will use the terms ‘print’ and ‘plot’ interchangeably.
The command to output a drawing is PLOT and you can access it from the Quick Access toolbar.
To display all of the options in the Plot dialog box, click the More Options button.
As you can see, there are many settings and options available.
For the sake of convenience, you can save and restore collections of these settings by name. These are
called page setups. With page setups you can store the
To open the Page Setup Manager, right-click on the Model tab or a layout tab and choose Page Setup
Manager. The command is PAGESETUP.
Each layout tab in your drawing can have an associated page setup. This is convenient when you use more
than one output device or format, or if you have several layouts with different sheet sizes in the same
drawing.
To create a new page setup, click New and enter the name of the new page setup. The Page Setup dialog
box that displays next looks like the Plot dialog box. Choose all the options and settings that you wish to
save.
When you are ready to plot, simply specify the name of the page setup in the Plot dialog box, and all your
plot settings will be restored. In the following illustration, the Plot dialog box is set to use the Hitchhiker
page setup, which will output a DWF (Design Web Format) file rather than print to a plotter.
Here’s a Tip:
You can
The following example shows you how to create a page setup for creating PDF files.
From the Printer/plotter drop-down list, choose AutoCAD PDF (General Documentation).pc3:
Next, choose the size and scale options that you want to use:
Paper Size: The orientation (portrait or landscape) is built into the choices in the drop-down list.
Plot Area: You can clip the area to be plotted with these options, but typically everything will be plotted.
Plot Offset: This setting changes based on your printer, plotter, or other output. Try centering the plot
or adjusting the origin, but remember that printers and plotters have a built-in margin around the edges.
Plot Scale: Choose your plot scale from the drop-down list. A scale such as 1/4” = 1’-0” is meant for
printing to scale from the Model tab. On a layout tab, you normally print at a 1:1 scale.
The plot style table provides information about processing colors. Colors that look good on your monitor
might not be suitable for a PDF file or for printing. For example, you might want to create a drawing in
color, but create monochrome output. Here is how you specify monochrome output:
Learning activities
The following figure is an orthographic view of a lever crank. Redraw the view using AutoCAD.
Draw this circuit, using the techniques you have learned using AutoCAD.
Draw the figure below using line, circle, rectangle, fillet, rectangular array, polar array, dimension, hatch,
layer, hidden line, and center line etc., commands.
Self-assessment
36. When creating your own blocks, it is important to avoid drawing any portion of the block in the
________ layer.
E. 0
F. center line
G. hatch
H. hidden line
37. An AutoCAD term that refers to a pre-drawn object which is stored in a drawing file and can be
inserted into any other drawing file as needed is a ________.
A. Block
B. Brick
C. Balloon
D. none of the above
38. Before starting an isometric drawing in AutoCAD the drafter needs to ________.
46. When filling an area with a hatch pattern in AutoCAD the drafter needs to be able to ________.
E. See the entire bounding area to hatch
F. set Ortho on
G. turn ISO grid off
H. set the layer to Defpoints
47. The default position of the UCS icon is positioned at ________ on the AutoCAD grid.
E. 0,0,0
F. 10,10,10
G. 20,20,20
H. None of the above
48. A cylinder can be created by drawing a rectangular shape then the ________ tool.
E. Revolve
F. Sweep
G. Extrude
H. none of the above
49. The MASSPROP shortcut will provide the following information.
E. mass
F. volume
G. bounding box
H. all of the above
50. The 3-D commands on the Modeling toolbar include ________.
E. box
F. sphere
G. extrude
H. all of the above
51. CAD programs which incorporate parametric modeling utilize a system in which the dimensions
control the ________.
E. size and shape of the model features
F. perspective of the model
G. shading used to render the model
H. all of the above
52. In order to create one solid model from two or more separate solid shapes the drafter will need to
position them and then ________.
E. use Union to join them
F. use the Join command
G. use the Add Parts tool
H. none of the above
53. The Conceptual Visual Style tool is located on the ________ toolbar.
E. Visual Styles
F. Modify
G. 3-D Modeling
H. All of the above
54. Drawings created with commercial software are typically saved as:
E. Rapid prototypes
F. Electronic files
G. Draft drawings
H. Change orders
55. Newer versions of AutoCAD utilize the ________ to make block library management very easy.
E. File / find
F. Design Center
G. File / search
H. None of the above
56. Inserting blocks into a drawing file usually requires exacting placement. The drafter should insure
that ________ is turned on.
E. O Snaps
F. Ortho
G. Grid
H. Dynamic Input
57. The command which identifies the points on drawing entities that are visible on screen is and this
option allows the user to pick-up the points very accurately with respect to drawing displayed.
A. OSNAP
B. TABSURF
C. SNAP
D. GRID
58. The commands Erase, Copy, Mirror, Trim, Extend, Break etc belongs to which tool bar?
A. Layer tool bar
B. Style tool bar
C. Modify tool bar
D. Draw tool bar
59. The commands Donut, Block, Spline, Polygon, and Arc etc belong to which tool bar?
A. Layer tool bar
B. Style tool bar
C. Modify tool bar
D. Draw tool bar
60. The command which works on two lines or a single poly line to create a beveled edge is
A. Chamfer
B. Fillet
C. Stretch
D. Extend
61. The command which is used to create a round corner between two lines is
A. Chamfer
B. Fillet
C. Stretch
D. Extend
62. The command ‘Oops’ is used to
A. create one or more copies of selected objects at another location
B. creates mirror image of selected objects about specified line
C. retrieves all objects erased by the last erase
D. deletes the selected entities
63. The command ‘pedit’ is used for
A. erases a portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points
B. reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands
C. breaking a poly line into individual segments
D. editing of poly line properties
64. The command ‘break’ is used for
e) erases a portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points
f) reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands
g) breaking a poly line into individual segments
h) editing of poly line properties
65. The command ‘U’ is used for
e) erases a portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points
f) reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands
g) breaking a poly line into individual segments
h) editing of poly line properties
66. The command ‘Explode’ is used for
e) erases a portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points
f) reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands
g) breaking a poly line into individual segments
h) editing of poly line properties
67. The command which is used to set a new coordinate system by shifting the working XY plane
to be desired location is?
e) 3DFACE
f) VPOINT
g) UCS
h) ELEV
68. The command which is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides is
e) 3DFACE
f) VPOINT
g) UCS
h) ELEV
69. The command which is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models is
e) 3DFACE
f) VPOINT
g) UCS
h) ELEV
70. The command which is used to set elevation and thickness properties for 2D wireframe objects such
as line, point, circle, polygon, arc is
e) 3DFACE
f) VPOINT
g) UCS
h) ELEV
7. Drawing tools
8. Drawing set
9. Drawing papers
10. Erasers
11. Series of pencils
12. Drawing board
References
7. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2006. Engineering Drawing : Plane and Solid Geometry.
Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
8. Bhatt, N. D. and Panchal, V. M. 2004. Machine Drawing. Charotar Publ. House Pvt. Ltd., Anand.
9. Narayana, K. L., Kannaiah, P. and Reddy, K. V. Machine Drawing. 2011. New Age International
Publ., New Delhi.
10. Reddy, K. V. 2010. Textbook of Engineering Drawing . B.S. Publ., Hyderabad.
11. Textbook of Engineering Drawing Second Edition K. Venkata Reddy Prof. & HOD of
Mechanical Engineering Dept. C.R. Engineering College,
12. Learn about AutoCAD manual. An Introduction to AutoCAD for Beginners
4.7 MODEL ANSWERS
9. B
10. A
11. B
12. C
13. A
14. B
15. Why the drawing is called the language of Engineers?
Engineering drawing teaches us to imagine and read the drawing,which is important in industrial
or construction engineers to execute the construction with the help of a drawing and execute
according to the drawing.Without drawing we can’t construct in construction work
16. What is the Necessity of Dimension a Drawing?
Learning activity 2: Produce plane geometry
5. D 9
6. D an inscribed
7. Ellipse
8.
Add the ratios 1+3+4 = 8 and divide the line into 8 equal divisions.
Obtain P and Q to divide the line AB in the ratio 1:3:4.
Answer: a
Explanation: Here the isometric view of some example picture is given. Arrow in question
represents the line of sight in case of front view from that we can get other view. Front view is
asked which can be watched along the arrow.
iii. The following figures are in isometric view. Draw the orthographic views in first angle.
iv. The following figures are in oblique view. Draw the orthographic views in first angle.
A pentagonal pyramid of base side 40 mm and axis length 80mm is resting on HP on its base with one
of its base side parallel to VP. It is cut by a plane inclined at 30° to HP and perpendicular to VP and is
bisecting the axis. Draw its front view, sectional top view, and the true shape of section.
.
16. D
17. B
18. B
19. A
20. A
21. B
22. A
23. B
24. C
25. A
26. D
27. D
28. C
Explanation: From the front view it is clear that the circle has diameter 20 mm. Hence its radius
will be 10mm. The dimension 10mm in the side view is just a repetition of this information.
Repetitive dimensions are redundant and they need to be avoided.
29. Views in an Orthographic Drawings
Front view
Side view
Plan
30. First angle projection:-In this projection the object is assumed to be situated in first quadrant,
i.e. in front of V.P and above HP the projections obtained on these planes is called first angle
projection. The symbol for the first angle projection is
Third angle projection: – In this Projection the object is assumed to be situated in the third quadrant
that is below HP and behind VP .The front view comes below the XY line and the top view above
it. The symbol for the third angle projection is
5. Definitions;
iv. Schematic diagram
Schematic diagram: a diagram that uses lines to represent the wires and symbols to represent
components. It is used to show how the circuit functions.
v. Line diagram
Line diagram: a one-line diagram or single-line diagram is a simplified notation for representing an
electrical system. The one-line diagram is similar to a block diagram except that electrical
elements such as switches, circuit breakers, transformers, and capacitors are shown by
standardized schematic symbols.
vi. Wiring diagram
A diagram which shows the connections of an installation or its component devices or parts. It may
cover internal or external connections, or both, and contains such detail as is needed to make
or trace connections that are involved.
Battery
Inverter
Filament lamp
7. A pictorial diagram to show the connection of the solar panel, the battery, and the load to a
charge controller.
36. A
37. A
38. A
39. B
40. A
41. A
42. C
43. B
44. C
45. A
46. A
47. A
48. A
49. D
50. D
51. A
52. A
53. A
54. B
55. B
56. A
57. Answer: a
Explanation: The command which identifies the points on drawing entities that are visible on screen is
OSNAP. This option allows the user to pick-up the points very accurately with respect to drawing
displayed.
58. Answer: c
Explanation: The commands Erase, Copy, Mirror, Trim, Extend, Break, Join, Scale, Array etc belongs
to ‘Modify tool bar’. The commands Donut, Block, Spline, Hatch, Rectangle, Ellipse, Polygon, and Arc
etc belong to ‘Draw tool bar’.
59. Answer: d
Explanation: The commands Erase, Copy, Mirror, Trim, Extend, Break, Join, Scale, Array etc belongs
to ‘Modify tool bar’. The commands Donut, Block, Spline, Hatch, Rectangle, Ellipse, Polygon, and Arc
etc belong to ‘Draw tool bar’.
60. Answer: a
Explanation: Chamfer works on two lines or a single poly line to create a beveled edge. Fillet is used to
create a round corner between two lines. Stretch command can either lengthen entities or shorten them
and thus their shapes.
61. Answer: b
Explanation: Fillet is used to create a round corner between two lines. Chamfer works on two lines or a
single poly line to create a beveled edge. Stretch command can either lengthen entities or shorten them
and thus their shapes.
62. Answer: c
Explanation: The command ‘Oops’ is used to retrieves all objects erased by the last erase. Mirror is used
to creates mirror image of selected objects about specified line. Command copy creates one or more
copies of selected objects at another location. The command ‘pedit’ is used for
63. Answer: d
Explanation: The command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘U’ is used for
reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands. Command ‘break’ is used for erases a
portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points.
64. Answer: a
Explanation: The command ‘break’ is used for erases a portion of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line
between two selected points. Command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘U’
is used for reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands.
65. Answer: b
Explanation: The command ‘U’ is used for reverses the effects of a series of previously used commands.
Command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘break’ is used for erases a portion
of line, arc, circle or a 2D poly line between two selected points.
66. Answer: c
Explanation: The command ‘Explode’ is used for breaking a poly line into individual segments.
Command ‘pedit’ is used for editing of poly line properties. Command ‘U’ is used for reverses the effects
of a series of previously used commands.
67. Answer: c
Explanation: UCS is used to set a new coordinate system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired
location. 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides. VPOINT
is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models.
68. Answer: a
Explanation: 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides.
VPOINT is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models. UCS is used to set a new
coordinate system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired location.
69. Answer: b
Explanation: VPOINT is used to set the viewpoint in 3D space for viewing the 3D models. 3DFACE is
used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have three or four sides. UCS is used to set a new
coordinate system by shifting the working XY plane to be desired location.
70. Answer: d
Explanation: ELEV is used to set elevation and thickness properties for 2D wireframe objects such as
line, point, circle, polygon and arc. 3DFACE is used for making planar unmeshed surfaces that have
three or four sides.
Cable termination
The cable joints are used to connect low, medium or high voltage cables. The type of cable joint sizes,
shapes and configurations vary according to the voltage, structure, insulation and the number of cores of
the cable to be jointed.
The joints provide electrical insulation as well as mechanical protection and strength. The electrical
connection is made in various ways and can crimping, or use of mechanical connectors, soldering, etc.
Voltage- The joints are designed for low, medium or high voltages and it is important to match the
capacity of the joint to voltage in the cable. Low power cable joint will fail if subjected to high current.
Structure- The cable joints are made according to how the cables are to be connected. The simple joints
such as the straight through connectors are used to connect two power cables at one point while the other
more advanced branch connectors may be used to accommodate a cable branching off the main line or
several cables coming into one joint to form one main cable.
Cores- The cable joints are required to have the same number of cores to those of the cables to be joined.
Insulation- There are different cable insulations depending on the application of the cable and the cable
joint must be compatible with the cable insulation. There are a variety of insulation procedures, and can
be either heat or cold shrinkable insulation, molded type of insulation, or use of tape.
Types of electrical power cable joints
There are about four commonly used types of joints; these differ in mechanical arrangement and where
they are used. However, some manufacturers may provide custom designs to suit unique customer
requirements.
Straight through joints- This is the mostly used type of a joint and is used to extend pieces of electrical
cables.
Figure 225:Cable joint:
10. Riser
11. Earth continuity connection
12. C.J compound
13. Plastinet
14. Pouring gate
15. Core Insulation
16. PVC (NA) Tape
17. Ferrule
18. BOPP Tape two layers each half overlapped over plastinet
Branch which can be a T or Y joint- This is used to join low voltage, polymeric, non-shielded cables of
between 1 and 5 cores. The branch jointing provides a reliable electrical connection, electrical insulation
and mechanical protection. The connectors are either the compression or the mechanical type. The branch
joints can be used for indoor, outdoor, submerged and underground cable jointing.
T or Y joint
Pot End Joints- The pot end joints are used at the live voltage cable ends. In a typical cable, each of the
cores is sealed separately using a heat shrink cable end caps. A screen bandage is then applied to provide
for earth fault protection and the combination is then covered with a thick wall of heat shrink cable cap.
The pot ends joints are suitable for temporary and permanent cable abandonment to provide safe
termination of live power cables for indoor, outdoor as well as underground cables
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgD2D2VnNg0
• Importance of termination
➢ Provides electrical continuity in the circuit
➢ Provides mechanical support and physical protection to the cables
➢ Ensures safety of the circuit, the user and maintenance technician
Types of cable terminations
Soldering- Flame soldering units can be used to automate the process. In a flame soldering application,
the object is placed over a tiny flame, heated for a specified time and a precise amount of solder is
applied. Some applications require the terminal to be soldered after it is crimped onto the end of the wire.
This method is mainly used in electronics
Insulation Displacement Connections- Insulation displacement connectors (IDC) are probably the
fastest way to terminate wires. The process can quickly and efficiently terminate the hundreds of wires
in large patch panels. There is no need to strip the wires when using IDC. IDC tools are inexpensive and
virtually error-proof. There are no chemicals to deal with and no insulation slugs to clean up. IDC
applications are usually reserved for small, stranded wire up to 22 AWG.
Crimping- Crimping is the most commonly used method of wire termination, and is most efficient for
high-volume wire termination. The terminations are fast, clean and mechanically strong. For low volume
or fieldwork, loose terminals are applied with a plethora of handheld and benchtop crimping devices.
Ultrasonic Welding- Ultrasonic welding is used in various bonding applications, such as joining
such dissimilar metals as copper, aluminum, nickel and brass. Ultrasonic welding is widely
used in wire harness manufacturing, where welding multiple wires is required. The resulting
molecular bonds are strong and can provide lower resistance than soldering or crimping.
Ultrasonic welding can also bond wire to terminals. The advantage is the lower resistance. The
disadvantage is that this process takes longer than crimping
Cable lug- A device attached to a conductor to permit connection to a terminal. It has provisions
for attachment of wires or similar electrical conductors in order to establish an electrical
connection and could require the use of tools for attachment of wire. A terminal may be
attached to a wire by a number of methods including screw-on, press-on or crimp-on
• Cable labeling
Letters, numbers, and wording on wiring labels tell you important information, such as the wire
material, the size of the wire, and the type of insulation used on the conducting wires. Labels
are found on both individual insulated wires and on insulated cable containing bundles of
wires. Cables carry labels indicating the cable type or construction as well as the number of
wires inside the cable.
A ground wire is indicated by "G," "w/G," or "with Ground." The wire material is indicated by "CU"
for copper and "AL" for aluminum.
Example
➢ 14-2G: Cable contains two insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 14-gauge.
➢ 14-3G: Cable contains three insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 14-gauge.
➢ 12-2 w/G: Cable contains two insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 12-gauge.
➢ 12-3 w/G: Cable contains three insulated wires plus a ground wire; the wires are 12-gauge.
➢ 600 V: Cable is rated for a maximum of 600 volts; this is standard for residential NM cable.
➢ TYPE NM-B: Non-metallic type-B cable; this is the current standard for residential installations.
"NM-B" cable is more heat-resistant than older "NM" cable.
Underground Feeder Cable
Most NM cable is used in "dry," or interior, locations, where the cable is protected inside wall, ceiling, and
floor cavities. Underground feeder (UF) cable is a special type of non-metallic cable that is suitable for
"wet" locations, or for unprotected locations like direct burial in the ground. UF cable is usually gray (not
white, yellow, orange, or black, like standard NM cable); it is labeled "UF-B" and may include "Sunlight
Resistant" or similar wording. UF cable uses the same symbols as standard NM cable to indicate the number
and gauge of wires.
Labels on Individual Wires
Individual insulated wires are used in home wiring when an installation calls for conduit—a rigid or
flexible protective pipe or tubing through which the wires are run. The important labeling on individual
wires relates to the wire insulation—the plastic coating that covers the metal conducting wire. The most
common types of wire used in home wiring include:
Low-voltage wiring used around the home includes small non-metallic cable used for thermostats and other
control devices and paired insulated wire used for landscape lighting systems. Wire for landscape lights
usually is black and has labeling stamped into the wire insulation. Labels typically include:
➢ Wire size: Indicated by a number (such as 12, for 12-gauge) or a number followed by "AWG,"
for American Wire Gauge.
➢ Number of wires: Usually indicated by the number 2; landscape wiring typically has two
insulated wires stuck together (similar to a lamp cord) and contains no ground wire.
➢ Properties: Wording indicating sunlight-resistance or suitability for underground installation.
Thermostat cable is similar to NM cable but contains four or more small insulated wires and no ground
wire. The cable may or may not be labeled. Each wire has its own colour to help you connect to the
appropriate terminal at the thermostat and the equipment it controls. Although colour coding is not
universal, the lettering on the thermostat terminals is relatively standard:
C: Common wire; allows for continuous power flow from the R wire; not all thermostats use this
terminal
Technicians in their line of work may also find it necessary to label cables especially in industrial
installation, cabinets and automated systems for easy troubleshooting and safety.
➢ Wire stripper hole for 22- to 24-gauge wire- They are used to strip insulation from conductors.
The adjusting screw should be used to prevent the cutting tips doing damage to the conductor. They
may also be used to remove the sheath from single core PVC / PVC cable, 1.5mm2 and 2.5mm2,
while leaving the insulation intact
➢ Automatic wire stripper- The automatic wire stripper is designed to remove insulation from a
range of conductor sizes.
➢ Hack saw- It is used to cut the larger size cables, cut mini trunking and cut out openings in surface
boxes for cable entry.
➢ Electrician’s knife- Electrician’s penknife is mainly used to remove the sheath from the various
types of cables and flexible cords.
➢ Phase tester -It is a very useful tool when checking if a circuit is “live” or not. This ensures safety
of the electrician
1.2.6.1 Learning activities
Practical activities
Industrial attachment
A case study
Carefully read the case study in the excerpt below and answer that follow
You are employed by ABC Company limited. The company which deals with electrical installation
and consultancy. The company is required to install electrical power in a wheat grinding plant.
The plant is powered by 3 phase 415V power to run grinding the machine. The company has
assigned you responsibility to supervise installation process. Installation is complete and now
you are required to terminate cables.
6. Explain how you would get 240V power from the 415V for lighting and socket outlets
7. Discuss various termination methods you will apply in the system
8. Give some considerations in selecting cable joints
9. Explain importance of termination in electrical installation
10. Names various tools and how they are applied in cable termination.
➢ Functional workshop
➢ Tools equipment used in electrical installation e.g.
✓ Pliers
✓ Cable strippers
✓ Crimping tools
✓ Materials e.g.
✓ Cables
✓ Trunking
✓ Conduits
✓ Enclosures
Supplies and consumables e.g.
✓ Cable ties
✓ Silicon glue
✓ Connectors
✓ Switches
✓ circuit breakers
Computer
Stationery
Classroom and classroom resources
1.2.6.3 Self-Assessment
8. What are the factors you will consider before selecting the method of termination suitable for
various parts of the installation?
9. Give various types of the terminations you will apply for the installation
10. Explain importance of termination
11. What are the factors you will consider when selecting types of cable joints to apply during
installation?
12. Give various types of cable joints
13. Explain importance of cable labeling in electrical installation
14. Explain some tools used for performing various types of terminations
1.2.6.4 Reference
This unit specifies the competencies required for planning an electrical installation, ranging
from surveying the site, determining system size, preparation of materials, tools, and
drawings, arranging for logistics, obtaining installation drawings, preparation of work plans,
establishing installation team, obtaining necessary work permit and licenses and finally
preparation of work site.
Site survey involves a physical visit and walk through on the proposed site of the electrical
installation works by the electrical design and installation team. It is performed so as to
mark out the position of the proposed project and to ensure the building is constructed to
its correct design, position and height as approved by the relevant certifier e.g. the county
planning department.
It is important too for the team to perform the exercise in order to gather information
necessary to enable produce detailed working drawings, comprehensive estimates to
complete the project, determine a precise location, access as well as location of obstacles if
any that may hinder the best orientation of the installation project.
It in the site survey that unforeseen challenges may be realized and tackled which would
otherwise lead to the delay on the completion of the electrical installation work e.g
distance from the distribution power transformer, presence of underground water pipes or
drainage system which may affect the routing of underground service cables, tall trees or
building in the vicinity of the project etc.
On commercial and industrial installations there may be more than one position for the
electrical supplies. Distribution cables may radiate from the site of the electrical mains
intake position to other sub-mains positions. The site of the sub-mains and the
route taken by the distribution cables may be shown on a blank copy of the
architect’s site plan or on the electrician’s ‘as-fitted drawings.
• Location drawings
Location drawings identify the place where items are located on the ground at the site. It
might be the position of the manhole covers giving access to the drains, the
position of all water stop taps or the position of the emergency lighting fittings all of
which may in one way or another affect the routing of the electric power cables
• Wiring diagrams
A wiring diagram or connection diagram shows the detailed electrical connections
between equipment or circuit works. The purpose of a wiring diagram is guiding the
electricians when carrying out electrical works to minimize the chances of making
errors which may cause electrical faults leading to electric shock and fires.
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Domestic installation
This is a type of installation suited for buildings intended for home living
Installation works in a domestic premise may be new or may be an extension to. an
already existing work. This will be discovered during a site survey and so the contractor
will able to revise the working drawings accordingly and also re adjust the estimates
where necessary. Upon visiting the project site, rerouting of installation cables and/or
complete replacement of part or whole of the installation can be considered
During a site visit the contractor is able to
• identify the best location for the power intake point based on the location of the
power distribution line
• advise the client on the suitable wiring system for the prevailing environmental
condition
• advise the client of any extra precautions that he may need to observe such as
lightning protection provisions
Commercial installations
These include those that are found in schools, hospitals, hotels, offices etc and they
mostly require more electric power than residential or domestic homes. It is during the
site survey when the contractor will establish the type of equipment and machinery to be
supplied, the number of floors in case of a storey building, approximate tenancy and
therefore the type of wiring suitable for the premises.
In this type of an installation where there are a wide range of people usually for long
periods of time in a day safety has to be paramount because any electrical accident
happening is likely to put hundreds of people at risk
Details revealed in the site survey report will also most probably provide adequate
information on the need for the inclusion of extra equipment may be such as air
conditioners for ventilation purposes and lifts and/or escalators in case of mall.
Industrial installations
Utilities availability
Electrical sites may be selected on the basis of vicinity towards access to main road,
electricity, health services a site survey will reveal whether these utilities are there and if
they are not the client or owner of a building will have the responsibility of ensuring that
he obtains all the necessary approvals from the relevant county authorities for temporary
or permanent connections to existing utilities ie clean water, electricity,
telecommunication network providers. The building owner should pay for the required
construction permits and inspection pertaining to the work being carried out and a site
visit is a great opportunity for the contractor to confirm that these payments have been
made and that the routing of the utilities will not interfere with the installation or project
work
Provision of fencing, temporary lighting and reinforcement by security personnel is also
an assurance of safety of construction and installation equipment that belongs to the
contractor that the contractor needs to confirm during the site survey,
Besides the project owner shall be required to provide sanitation sewer for the workers
on site
Taking measurements on site
. The site plan or layout drawing will be drawn to a scale smaller than the actual
size of the building, so to find the actual measurement, one must measure the
distance on the drawing and multiply by the scale. To accurately locate the electrical
fittings the contractor needs to measure the actual floor area, average temperature
and humidity of the site if found to be higher or lower than the design value of the
equipment the fittings will require to be adjusted to meet the required installation
conditions. During a site visit is a great opportunity to perform crucial measurements
such as
• distance between the building and the distribution transformer
• the height of the building to be able to identify the ideal location for the electric
meter in case of mansionetes or to be able to determine the height of the rising
mains in case of storey buildings
• the length and width of the building to be able to determine floor area of the
building and the length of conduit runs or trunking
• size of rooms to be able to design for ring circuits
• distance between switches and lighting points
• actual voltage on site
• soil resistance at the site to determine on the type of earth electrodes to use
Procedure of conducting an electrical site survey
• walk through the proposed site to gather basic facts by observing and
questioning the client and other persons such as the site manager, quantity
surveyor regarding power quality concerns. It’s necessary to review the
information so gathered to establish the course of action that best serves the site
needs
• organize and perform site analysis. It’s important that an organization or
individual contractor invests in diagnostic equipment, attend safety training
workshops and apply proper test methods to be able to achieve objectivity of
test results
• document the exercise by writing a survey report.in this report there must be
provision for each type of measurement taken. This will allow for the future use
of the document as a log sheet to help track any electrical expansion of available
apparatus and/or electrical equipment such as transformers, distribution panels
etc. over an extended period of time
• evaluate the results and provide cost effective solutions.it is important to brief
the client and other relevant persons on the results upon completion of the site
survey. This will give one a chance to communicate about potential safety
hazards, suspected problem areas and possible recommendations
Organizing documentation is critical part of the survey and pre planning and is
mostly required for building permits, and legal utility interconnection.
The key components of a system documentation package may include. System
design and equipment specification, site layout drawings, operator manuals for
equipment, installation, operation and maintenance procedures
5.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
5.2.1.6.1 References
5.2.2 Learning Outcome 2: Perform system sizing
5.2.2.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
Electricity is much more than a national asset and besides being of deep social
importance it is the main influence for good life.it is essential to our daily life and
work. There are rules and regulations which govern electrical installation practice.
These rules, codes of practice and standards are essential to ensure that all installations
provide adequate safety from two types of electric hazards ie electric shock and electric
fire. A general requirement of every electrician is that he should be familiar with the
regulations that govern the electro technical industry,
Symbol of a fuse
The standard IEEE/ANSI symbols for the fuse is as follows:
This is the most common type of fuse. The fuse element is encased in a glass envelope that is
terminated by metal caps. The fuse is placed in an appropriate holder. Since the glass envelope is
clear, it is easy to visually
classification of fuses
Cartridge fuse
This is the most common type of fuse. The fuse element is encased in a glass envelope that is
terminated by metal caps. The fuse is placed in an appropriate holder. Since the glass envelope
is clear, it is easy to visually determine if the fuse is blown.
Rewireable fuses: They are a simple reusable fuse used in homes and offices. They consist of a
carrier and a socket. When the fuse is blown, the carrier is taken out, rewired and put back in
the socket to resume normal operation. They are somewhat less reliable than HRC fuses.
Switch fuse: A handle that is manually operated can connect or disconnect high current fuses.
5.2.2.5 Self-Assessment
1) Which four rating factors are necessary to consider while calculating for a cable?
size
2) Complete the abbreviations MPVD as used in cable size calculation
3) A 230V single phase 20Kw load operates at a power factor of 0.7 lagging and is
fed from a distribution board located 30m away by a 2 core PVC insulated and
armored cable with aluminum conductors. The cable is clipped direct to a cable
tray. The ambient temperature is 450C and close excess protection is
provided.MPVD is 2.5% using table 25m in the IEE regulations 14th edition
calculate the correct cable size for the given load.
5.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Stationery
IEE regulations 14 th edition
5.2.2.7 References
5.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Prepare list of tools, equipment and materials
.
Upon Delivery the materials, tools and equipment must be checked to confirm whether
the items received
i. Meet specifications required
ii. Are of the correct quantities
iii. Have any Defects
iv. have Breakages
The accounting procedures must be followed in receiving & checking items delivered ie
v. Signing a receipt or delivery order
vi. Posting the quantities received in the inventory sheet
The storekeeper must;
vii. Open all cases, boxes and inspect all items
viii. Sort goods accurately
ix. Place items in proper location
Safety precautions (care) in handling electrical tools
• Handle sharp edge tools with special care
• Never carry unshielded tools in pockets
• Never throw over tools to each other
• Avoid placing your fingers or hands in the path of motion of the cutting
tools.
• Never leave tools on top of a step ladder or on any other place above your
head.
• Never use tools for the purpose other than the designed.
Types and applications of Electrical hand tools
A. Wire strippers
The removal of insulation from wires and cables is one of the tasks which, is a
major part of installation work. There are many techniques used within the
industry, using tools ranging from the simple hand-operated strippers to automatic,
motorized types. Hand-operated strippers fall into two main categories: those
which are adjustable and those which are not. Within the non-adjustable types are
some which have flexible jaws and will strip a range of wire sizes, while others
have a series of cutting holes for each wire size.
B. Adjustable wire strippers
These have jaws with V-shaped notches to cut the insulation. The adjuster screw
acts as a stop to allow for a range of wire diameters. To use the stripper: i. Adjust
the screw to open or close the jaws so that the V cutting slots cut the insulation
cleanly without tearing the insulation or damaging the conductor. ii. Use a test
piece of wire to adjust the jaws to the correct position to cut the insulation but not
the conductor. iii. Place the wire in the lower groove; squeeze the handles to cut
the insulation, iv. Rotate the strippers half a turn and pull off the insulation stub.
Check for damage to the conductor. v. When the adjustment is found to be correct,
tighten the lock nut and test again. If OK, then the strippers are ready for use. Vi.
Always check the wire for damage each time you remove insulation with this type
of wire stripper.
E. Pliers
Pliers are used for cutting and gripping wires.
a. Side cutting plier: used for cutting and gripping wires; it also pulls on snake wire
through pipes.
b. Diagonal cutting plier: used to cut off wires close to connecting points such as switch
and outlet terminals which are located close to the fitting so that the side cutting plier
may not able to get close enough.
c. Flat nose pliers: used for bending, twisting and forming conductors and bus
bashers.
d. Long (sharp) nose pliers: used for pulling wires and other materials through narrow
holes or narrow areas.
e. Round nose pliers: used for looping conductors in order to connect them to the
terminals.
f. Slip joint pliers
The slip joint permits the jaws to be extended to greater width than is possible with a
cutting plier of the same size. The slip joint pliers, are then used to gripping wires,
cutting wires and holding conduits while making up locknuts and bushings.
F. Electrician knife
Electrician knives are used for removing insulation in electrical wiring. The blade
should be made of high grade, tempered steel. The knife should be strong,
serviceable and, if possible, of the closing type.
G. Hack saw
It is used for cutting metallic parts such as cable armor and conduit tubes. Hacksaw should be
adjusted in the frame to prevent buckling and breaking, but not be tighten enough to break off
the pins that support the blade. While installing the blade the teeth should point forward. When
using hack saw, pressure is applied on the forward stroke not on the back stroke. Caution: If
the blade is twisted or too much pressure is applied, the blade may break and cause injury to the
hands or arms of the user.
Fig. Hacksaw
b. Square blade screw driver: is a strong screw driver used for turning stubborn
or heavy screws. It has the possibility of increasing hand pressure and turning
moment by means of a plier or a wrench.
c. Thin blade screw driver: is used for installing a screw past an obstacle or a
nearby object (Inside a small holes).
d. Hammer
Hammers are used to drive chisels, straighten metals & pick out nails.
a. Claw hammers are of two types: Straight and curved claw hammers.
b. Straight claw hammers are inserted beneath, behind or between boards or timbers
to be detached.
c. Curved claw hammers mainly used for picking out nails.
d. Ball peen hammer: provides greater striking power needed in such cases as driving
a chisel or a stat drill into brick or concrete walls.
e. Peen hammer used for heavy duties since it provide for greater power.
Chisels
Chisels are used to cut metals as well as dig holes or grooves in brick or concrete
walls. The following chisels are common in doing electrical works.
a. Cold chisels used to cut metals, bricks, concrete or any hard materials forged from
alloy steel, hardened and tempered.
b. Cape chisels have sufficient sized striking heads and a narrower cutting edge
which enables to penetrate hard surfaces, particularly metal, somewhat better than
cold chisels.
c. Wood chisel used for performing soft operation such as grooves on wooden
construction.
wood chisel
star/ start
chisel
d. Star chisel or start drill used to make a circular hole through brickwork, concrete
construction and other stone work
.
Steel tape/ draw wire
Direct linear measurements of ordinary or more accurate precision require a steel tape. The
most commonly used length is 100 feet, but tapes are also available in 50-, 200-, 300-, and 500-
feet lengths. The 500-tape is usually a flat-wire type. Most steel tapes are graduated in feet and
decimals of feet, but some are graduated in feet and inches, meters, and chains or other linear
units. It is used for passing wire or cable through conduits, pipes or through spaces in the walls
and under the floor of a house.
Some tapes, called engineers or direct reading tapes, are graduated in subdivisions of each foot.
The tape most commonly used, however, is the so-called chain tape, on which only the first foot
at the zero end of the tape is graduated in subdivisions; the main body of the tape is graduated
only at every one foot mark. A steel tape is sometimes equipped with a reel on which the tape
can be wound, although a tape can be, and often is, detached from the reel for convenience.
There are various types of surveying tapes; metallic tape, steel tape on an open reel, steel tape
on a closed reel, and special types of low-expansion steel tape, generally called an Invar tape or
Lovar tape, used in high-order work.
Mallet is a wooden made hammer used to bend (give shape) of wire while working on the
machines.
Equipment
Drill
Drills are of two types: hand drill and electric (hand) drill.
a. Hand drill is used to hold round shank drills during drilling operation to make holes
on concrete, wooden and/ or metallic materials.
b. Electric hand drill is portable enough to be carried to places other than the
workshop and connected to the power source by means of a long cord to drill holes
on concrete, wooden and metallic bodies.
The most commonly types of vices likely to be used is the “bench” vise which can come
with a fixed or swivel base. They are also available with or without pipe holding jaws.
Bench vises are usually bolt mounted to a bench but clamp on models are also available for
lighter duty. The blacksmith’s vise is useful for work which must be pounced; it is secured
to a bench and braced by the long leg attached to a solid base on the floor. Pipe vises are
also useful to various trades. The yoke type pipe vise usually has capacity up to about 8
cm. (3 in.). The chain-type vise has a larger diameter capability as well as being useful for
irregular shape.
Procedures of Safe uses of vice are:
• Mount vice securely.
• Keep work close to jaws.
• Keep vice cleaned, oiled.
• Support extra-long work.
• Prop very heavy work in vice with wood blocks to prevent it from falling and causing
injury.
• Don’t open jaws beyond their capacity; the moveable jaw may fall, causing injury or
damage.
Materials
Cables
For high voltage distribution services, cables having polymeric insulation, usually cross-linked
polyethylene (XLPE), are finding favor over PILC types due mainly to the simplicity with
which they may be terminated and jointed. The most usual construction is XLPE/SWA/PVC.
For low voltage systems the universal PVC/SWA/PVC is generally satisfactory. Where cables
are routed through buildings or in cable tunnels, safety requirements may in some cases dictate
the use of low smoke/low fume cable types.
The choice between copper or aluminum conductors and, in the case of aluminium, solid or
stranded construction, is influenced by cost and the practicalities of installation. Aluminium
cables, where they are known to be such, are much less likely to be the subject of theft while
waiting, or during, installation. As in any installation, conductor sizes must be chosen to meet
the requirements of both current-carrying capacity and acceptable voltage drop. With regard to
current-carrying capacity, decisions should be based on the usual factors and need not be
discussed here. The question of cable size in relation to voltage drop is less clear. For low
voltage systems the requirements of BS 7671 (IEE 16th edition) are deemed to be satisfied if
the voltage drop between the origin of the installation and the fixed current-using equipment
does not exceed 4% of the nominal voltage of the supply. This can be interpreted as being
applicable to a ‘site distribution system’ operating at low voltage but there is at present no
equivalent standard for high voltage systems. Where a high voltage system is supplying power
to be utilized entirely at low voltage, the voltage drop on the high voltage system may not be as
important and can usually be compensated for by tap selection on the transformers at the load
center substations. (Overvoltage under light load conditions must not then exceed a value that
might be damaging to the connected equipment.) Where loads such as large motors are supplied
directly at the high voltage system voltage, cable sizes should be selected to limit the voltage
drop to a value acceptable to the manufacturers of the equipment in question.
Conduits
Definition of Conduit
A conduit is a tube, channel or pipe in which insulated conductors are contained. The conduit,
in effect, replaces the PVC outer sheath of a cable, providing mechanical protection for the
insulated conductors. A conduit installation can be rewired easily or altered at any time, and
this flexibility, coupled with mechanical protection, makes conduit installations popular for
commercial and industrial applications.
Types and applications of conduits
There are three types of conduit used in electrical installation work. Namely: steel, PVC and
flexible.
Steel Conduit
Steel conduits are made to a specification defined by IEEE standards and are either heavy gauge
welded or solid drawn. Heavy gauge is made from a sheet of steel welded along the seam to
form a tube and is used for most electrical installation work. Solid drawn conduit is a seamless
tube which is much more expensive and only used for special gas-tight, explosion-proof or
flameproof installations. Steel conduit is supplied in 3.75 m lengths and typical sizes are 16, 20,
25 and 32 mm. Conduit tubing and fittings are supplied in a black enamel finish for internal use
or hot galvanized finish for use on external or damp installations. A wide range of fittings is
available and the conduit is fixed using Saddles or pipe hooks.
PVC Conduit
PVC conduit used on typical electrical installations is heavy gauge standard impact tube
manufactured. The conduit size and range of fittings are the same as those available for metal
conduit. PVC conduit is most often joined by placing the end of the conduit into the appropriate
fitting and fixing with a PVC solvent adhesive.
PVC conduit can be bent by hand using a bending spring of the same diameter as the inside of
the conduit. The spring is pushed into the conduit to the point of the intended bend and the
conduit then bent over the knee. The spring ensures that the conduit keeps its circular shape. In
cold weather, a little warmth applied to the point of the intended bend often helps to achieve a
more successful bend.
The advantages of a PVC conduit system are that it may be installed much more quickly than
steel conduit and is non-corrosive, but it does not have the mechanical strength of steel conduit.
Since PVC conduit is an insulator it cannot be used as the CPC and a separate earth conductor
must be run to every outlet. It is not suitable for installations subjected to temperatures below
25°C or above 60°C. Where luminaires are suspended from PVC conduit boxes, precautions
must be taken to ensure that the lamp does not raise the box temperature or that the mass of the
luminaire supported by each box does not exceed the maximum recommended by the
manufacturer (IEE Regulations. PVC conduit also expands much more than metal conduit and
so long runs require an expansion coupling to allow for conduit movement and help to prevent
distortion during temperature changes. All conduit installations must be erected first before any
wiring is installed. The radius of all bends in conduit must not cause the cables to suffer
damage, and therefore the minimum radius of bends as indicated in IEEE regulation. All
conduits should terminate in a box or fitting and meet the boxes or fittings at right angles.
When drawing cables into conduit, they must first be run off the cable drum. That is, the drum
must be rotated and not allowed to spiral off, which will cause the cable to twist. Cables
should be fed into the conduit in a manner which prevents any cable crossing over and
becoming twisted inside the conduit. The cable insulation must not be damaged on the metal
edges of the draw-in box. Cables can be pulled in on a draw wire if the run is a long one. The
draw wire itself may be drawn in on a fish tape, which is a thin spring steel or plastic tape. A
limit must be placed on the number of bends between boxes in a conduit run and the number of
cables which may be drawn into a conduit to prevent the cables being strained during wiring.
Flexible conduit
Flexible conduit is made of interlinked metal spirals often covered with a PVC sleeving. The tubing
must not be relied upon to provide a continuous earth path and, consequently, a separate CPC must be
run either inside or outside the flexible tube. Flexible conduit is used for the final connection to motors
so that the vibrations of the motor are not transmitted throughout the electrical installation and to allow
for modifications to be made to the final motor position and drive belt adjustments.
Trays/ duct
Cable tray is a sheet-steel channel with multiple holes. The most common finish is hot-dipped
galvanized but PVC-coated tray is also available. It is used extensively on large industrial and
commercial installations for supporting Mineral Insulated (MI) and SWA cables which are laid on the
cable tray and secured with cable ties through the tray holes. Cable tray should be adequately supported
during installation by brackets which are appropriate for the particular installation. The tray should be
bolted to the brackets with round-headed bolts and nuts, with the round head inside the tray so that
cables drawn along the tray are not damaged. The tray is supplied in standard widths from 50 to 900
mm, and a wide range of bends, tees and reducers is available. The tray can also be bent using a cable
tray bending machine to create bends. The installed tray should be securely bolted with round-headed
bolts where lengths or accessories are attached, so that there is a continuous earth path which may be
bonded to an electrical earth. The whole tray should provide a firm support for the cables and therefore
the tray fixings must be capable of supporting the weight of both the tray and cables.
Types and application of cable trays
Metallic cable Tray
The metallic (often slotted) construction of heavy-duty cable tray makes it appropriate for the support
of heavy cables such as SWA mains or large numbers of MICC circuits in an industrial site. Other
types and even categories of cables can use the same tray for support when appropriate. Cable ladders
are a variation for vertical runs between horizontal trays, and find economic uses in power stations and
factories with particularly dense cable populations. The overall technique allows excellent simple
mechanical support with accessibility and little of the problem from grouping factors due to bunching
of cables. Secondary trays may be installed alongside the main tray to house the final distribution
and/or data cables if segregation is a problem or specific EMC considerations prevail; otherwise the
same tray can often house various cables.
Skirting Trunking
Skirting trunking is a trunking manufactured from PVC or steel and in the shape of a skirting board is
frequently used in commercial buildings such as hospitals, laboratories and offices. The trunking is
fitted around the walls of a room at either the skirting board level or at the working surface level and
contains the wiring for socket outlets and telephone points which are mounted on the cover. Any
trunking passes through walls, partitions, ceilings or floors, short lengths of lid should be fitted so that
the remainder of the lid may be removed later without difficulty. Any damage to the structure of the
buildings must be made good with mortar, plaster or concrete in order to prevent the spread of fire. Fire
barriers must be fitted inside the trunking every 5m, or at every floor level or room dividing wall, if this
is a shorter distance. Where trunking is installed vertically, the installed conductors must be supported
so that the maximum unsupported length of non-sheathed cable does not exceed 5m. PVC insulated
cables are usually drawn into an erected conduit installation or laid into an erected trunking installation.
Skirting trunking
Fittings
Fittings are joining materials. Plastic can be joined with an appropriate solvent. Metals may be welded,
brazed or soldered, but the most popular method of on-site joining of metals on electrical installations
is by nuts and bolts or rivets. A nut and bolt joint may be considered a temporary fastening since the
parts can easily be separated if required by unscrewing the nut and removing the bolt. A rivet is a
permanent fastening since the parts riveted together cannot be easily separated.
Two pieces of metal joined by a bolt and nut and by a machine screw and nut. The nut is tightened to
secure the joint. When joining trunking or cable trays, a round head machine screw should be used with
the head inside to reduce the risk of damage to cables being drawn into the trunking or tray.
Thin sheet material such as trunking is often joined using a pop riveter. Special rivets are used with a
hand tool. Where possible, the parts to be riveted should be clamped and drilled together with a
clearance hole for the rivet.
The stem of the rivet is pushed into the nose bush of the riveter until the alloy sleeve of the rivet is
flush with the nose bush
(a) The rivet is then placed in the hole and the handles squeezed together
(b) The alloy sleeve is compressed and the rivet stem will break off when the rivet is set and the
joint complete
(c) To release the broken off stem piece, the nose bush is turned upwards and the handles opened
sharply. The stem will fall out and is discarded
Bracket supports
Conduit and trunking may be fixed directly to a surface such as a brick wall or concrete ceiling, but
where cable runs are across girders or other steel framework, spring steel clips may be used but support
brackets or clips often require manufacturing. The brackets are usually made from flat iron, which is
painted after manufacturing to prevent corrosion. They may be made on-site by the electrician or, if
many brackets are required, the electrical contractor may make a working sketch with dimensions and
have the items manufactured by a blacksmith or metal fabricator. The type of bracket required will be
determined by the installation, which may be modified to suit particular circumstances.
Fixings
Fixing methods
PVC insulated, and sheathed wiring systems are usually fixed with PVC clips in order to comply with
IEEE Regulation 522.8.3 and 4. The clips are supplied in various sizes to hold the cable firmly, and the
fixing nail is a hardened masonry nail. The use of a masonry nail means that fixings to wood, plaster,
brick or stone can be made with equal ease in which the screw can be secured.
a. Plastic plugs
A plastic plug is made of a hollow plastic tube split up to half its length to allow for expansion. Each
size of plastic plug is color coded to match a wood screw size. A hole is drilled into the masonry, using
a masonry drill of the same diameter, to the length of the plastic plug. The plastic plug is inserted into
the hole and tapped home until it is level with the surface of the masonry. Finally, the fixing screw is
driven into the plastic plug until it becomes tight and the fixture is secure.
Expansion bolts
The most well-known expansion bolt is made by raw bolt and consists of a split iron shell held together
at one end by a steel ferrule and a spring wire clip at the other end. Tightening the bolt draws up an
expanding bolt inside the split iron shell, forcing the iron to expand and grip the masonry. Raw bolts are
for heavy-duty masonry fixings. A hole is drilled in the masonry to take the iron shell and ferrule. The
iron shell is inserted with the spring wire clip end first so that the ferrule is at the outer surface. The bolt
is passed through the fixture, located in the expanding nut and tightened until the fixing becomes secure.
Spring Toggle bolts
A spring toggle bolt provides one method of fixing to hollow partition walls which are usually faced
with plasterboard and a plaster skimming.
Plasterboard and plaster wall or ceiling surfaces are not strong enough to support a load fixed directly
into the plasterboard, but the spring toggle spreads the load over a larger area, making the fixing
suitable for light loads. A hole is drilled through the plasterboard and into the cavity. The toggle bolt is
passed through the fixture and the toggle wings screwed into the bolt. The toggle wings are compressed
and passed through the hole in the plasterboard and into the cavity where they spring apart and rest on
the cavity side of the plasterboard. The bolt is tightened until the fixing becomes firm. The bolt of the
spring toggle cannot be removed after fixing without the loss of the toggle wings. If it becomes
necessary to remove and re-fix the fixture a new toggle bolt will have to be used.
Measuring tools
The measuring tools that would be used to measure conductors that is required for a given installation
may range from a steel rule to a tape measure.
Measuring equipment
The test instruments and test leads used by the electrician for testing an electrical installation must meet
all the requirements of the relevant regulations. The HSE has published guidance note GS 38 for test
equipment used by electricians. The IEE Regulations (BS 7671) also specify the test voltage or
current required to carry out particular tests satisfactorily. All test equipment must be chosen to comply
with the relevant parts of BS EN 61557. All testing must, therefore, be carried out using an ‘approved’
test instrument if the test results are to be valid. The test instrument must also carry a calibration
certificate, otherwise the recorded results may be void. Calibration certificates usually last for a year.
Test instruments must, therefore, be tested and recalibrated each year by an approved supplier. This
will maintain the accuracy of the instrument to an acceptable level, usually within 2% of the true value.
Modern digital test instruments are reasonably robust, but to maintain them in good working order they
must be treated with care. An approved test instrument costs as much as a good-quality camera; it
should, therefore, receive the same care and consideration.
Cables and conductors
Most cables can be considered to be constructed in three parts: the conductor, which must be of a
suitable cross-section to carry the load current; the insulation, which has a colour or number code for
identification; and the outer sheath, which may contain some means of providing protection from
mechanical damage. The conductors of a cable are made of either copper or aluminum and may be
stranded or solid. Solid conductors are only used in fixed wiring installations and may be shaped in
larger cables. Stranded conductors are more flexible and conductor sizes from 4.0 to 25 mm 2 contain
seven strands. A 10 mm 2 conductor, for example, has seven 1.35 mm diameter strands which
collectively make up the 10 mm 2 cross-sectional area of the cable. Conductors above 25 mm 2 have
more than seven strands, depending upon the size of the cable. Flexible cords have multiple strands of
very fi ne wire, as fi ne as one strand of human hair. This gives the cable its very flexible quality.
Rectangular conductors (usually called bus bars) are used in distribution boards or specially
constructed bus bar chambers designed to allow many different circuits to be tapped from.
In many existing installations old cables can still be found insulated with rubber although they are no
longer manufactured. A modern wiring material for cables is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC insulated
single core cables (singles) are used when the installation is to be run in a conduit or trunking.
Another type of fixed wiring cable is mineral insulated metal sheathed (MIMS)cable. They are strong
and long lasting.
Armored cables are also an extension of the type of cables used in fixed wiring. Here the inner PVC
sheath is in turn sheathed in strands of steel wire and an overall sheath fitted on the outer cover.
Crimping tool
This is a tool that is used to crimp lugs at the end of the conductor. Lug terminations is frequently used
for connecting a conductor to the busbars.
accessible conduit system and for industrial and commercial installations it is replacing the larger
conduit sizes.
A trunking system can have great flexibility when used in conjunction with conduit; the trunking forms
the background or framework for the installation, with conduits running from the trunking to the point
controlling the current-using apparatus. When an alteration or extension is required it is easy to drill a
hole in the side of the trunking and run a conduit to the new point. The new wiring can then be drawn
through the new conduit and the existing trunking to the supply point.
Trunking is supplied in 3 m lengths and various cross-sections measured in millimetres from 50 _ 50
up to 300 _ 150. Most trunking is available in either steel or plastic.
Joining materials
Plastic can be joined with an appropriate solvent. Metal may be welded, brazed or soldered, but the
most popular method of on-site joining of metal on electrical installations is by nuts and bolts or rivets.
A nut and bolt joint may be considered a temporary fastening since the parts can easily be separated if
required by unscrewing the nut and removing the bolt. A rivet is a permanent fastening since the parts
riveted together cannot be easily separated. The stem of the rivet is pushed into the nose bush of the
riveter until the alloy sleeve of the rivet is flush with the nose bush (a). The rivet is then placed in the
hole and the handles squeezed together (b). The alloy sleeve is compressed and the rivet stem will
break off when the rivet is set and the joint complete (c). To release the broken-off stem piece, the nose
bush is turned upwards and the handles opened sharply.
5.2.3.5 Self-ssessment
1. Good housekeeping’ at work is about:
a. cleaning up and putting waste in the skip
b. working safely
c. making the tea and collecting everyone’s lunch
d. putting tools and equipment away after use.
3. Which hand tools would you use for removing cable insulation?
a. a pair of side cutters or knife
b. a screwdriver
c. a wood chisel and saw.
d. a tenon saw.
4. Which hand tools would you use to cut across a floorboard before lifting?
a. a pair of side cutters or knife
b. a screwdriver
c. a wood chisel and saw
d. a tenon saw.
5. Which hand tools would you use to cut and remove a notch in a floor joist?
a. a pair of side cutters or knife
b. a screwdriver
c. a wood chisel and saw
d. a tenon saw
5.2.3.7 References
Electrical installation principles and practice by J. Hyde Macmillan text for industrial
vocational and technical education. pp 63-85
Basic Electrical installation works by Trevor Linsley, 5th edition pp 139- 159
Electrical installation work by Brian Scaddan 7th edition pp 253-283
5.2.4 Learning Outcome 4: Arrange for logistics
Only two functions are discussed here ie transport and Storage, warehousing and materials
handling
Transport
Role of transport
Transport is the most recognizable role of logistics. This includes all modes of transport
including road vehicles, freight trains, cargo shipping and air transport. Without transport,
goods as well as human resource would be unable to move from one stage to another. Electrical
equipment and material may consist of complex products that may need to be transported from
all over the world and so plans must be put in place to ensure the materials arrival is timely.
For imported goods, necessary licenses and trade goods certificate must be acquired well in
advance to avoid clearance delay at the airport or other points of entry.
There are necessary factors to consider while selecting a storage facility for project materials
and equipment. Such factors include;
Accessibility:
Access to warehouse should be easy for cars and trucks in all weathers.
Utilities:
There should be office space for the storekeeper, preferably with toilet and wash-up facilities,
and regular garbage disposal. Lighting in the warehouse and surrounding area. The warehouse
should be fenced and should have facilities present for security personnel
Size:
The warehouse should have sufficient capacity to meet forecast requirements for temporary
storage.
Easy movement: The warehouse should have sufficient additional floor area to permit easy
stock handling and access to all stocks for inspection, and insect and pest control.
Ventilation: The construction should be dry and well ventilated. The roof should be leak-proof.
There should be no broken windows. Doors should close securely with no gaps. To reduce
temperature inside the warehouse, you should paint the roof and walls outside, in white.
Maintenance: The floor should be flat and solid, preferably smooth and crack-free concrete.
The walls should be as clean and smooth as possible.
Zones for activities and areas for storage must be defined inside the warehouse eg at the;
• arrival zone-during unloading, the storekeeper will inspect the delivery for quality and
quantity. If this is correct, the storekeeper will accept and register the goods
• packing zone-for some for those items which need to be moved from the store so as to
be delivered elsewhere eg generators used to supply temporary installation on site
• delivery zone-to save time during loading and to avoid disorder, items ready to be
delivered are stored per destination
• storage zones-where stock is stored.
Logistician is the person responsible of planning the entire logistics system and is also
responsible of managing the store for a small organization. In case of a big enterprise, a store
keeper must be employed to take charge of the store and warehouse
The storekeeper is responsible for implementing all necessary measures related to the
maintenance of the quality of items. If a problem cannot be solved at the storekeeper’s level, the
logistician has to be informed. The storekeeper is responsible for the items stored.
loaders
Loaders are employees working under the responsibility of the storekeeper. They have to load,
move and unload goods. They also undertake minor repair and repacking of damaged bags. The
number of persons will depend on the volume and on the storage facilities. Loaders can be
permanent employees, daily workers or a team paid per ton or unit carried depending on the
frequency of activities. For electrical installation work loaders may be hired on a daily basis or
for a specific task only
Communication in logistics
This involves the interaction between all the parties involved in a supply, distribution, storage
of materials and equipment. If all people from different points of the logistics process are able
give ideas for improvements based on firsthand experience, it will make for a much better
managed process. If communication is limited, so is the ability of the timely supply and
delivery of goods.
Modes of communication
Real-Time Communication through mobile phone softwares. this is a secure and safe
communication transmission mode
• make it a priority to liase with the suppliers and distributors of material and equipment
to ensure that deliveries are on time and in the right quantities at considerable costs
• Regularly meet with stakeholders and suppliers. By getting together with them on a
regular basis (weekly for instance) you can highlight and tackle their concerns and
worries as they occur. make sure they are regularly updated even if it’s just a quick
summary email. With suppliers it’s also important to regularly asses’ relationships from
both sides, and offer constructive feedback to the supplier as well as asking for it
yourself.
• Always offer options. After negotiations, produce a list of options and relevant cases
that back up each. This way, you are giving the stakeholders some influence and aren’t
taking the decision out of their hands, making them feel they have status.
Communication
When it comes to the communication method itself, one should assess which method
best suits the situation that will deliver the optimum results for supply chain success.
There are also some basic principles to consider when it comes to how one
communicates with stakeholders and suppliers:
• Be clear. It’s necessary to give clear instructions which are understandable to the team
of people in the logistics department
• Be personal and pragmatic. Often with stakeholders, it’s more beneficial to give them a
call or pay a quick visit than to send less direct communication such as emails. A
personal and pragmatic approach will get faster and better results when aiming to
implement change.
5.2.4.4 Learning Activities
Learning activity Special instructions
Discuss the necessary logistics Trainees will list all the necessary
required for particular work at an tasks to be performed with regard to
electrical installation site transport and storage of materials
required at site
Discuss on how to segregate logistics Trainees will role play different
according to different departments departments and prepare their logistics
as per specific work schedule for each
department
5.2.4.5 Self-Assessment
I. which two methods of communication may be used by a logistician?
II. how can a logistician endeavor to improve on his communication with the rest of
the departments in an organization?
III. Which three factors may one need to consider when selecting a storage facility?
IV. who are the people most likely to be found working in the logistics department?
5.2.4.7 References
Information sources should be quoted and presented as required in the APA format
1. A list of all activities required to complete the project (typically categorized within
a work breakdown structure) ,
2. The time (duration) that each activity will take to complete,
3. The dependencies between the activities and,
4. Logical end points such as milestones or deliverable items.
Using these values, CPM calculates the longest path of planned activities to logical end points
or to the end of the project, and the earliest and latest that each activity can start and finish
without making the project longer. This process determines which activities are "critical" (i.e.,
on the longest path) and which have "total float" (i.e., can be delayed without making the
project longer). In project management, a critical path is the sequence of project network
activities which add up to the longest overall duration, regardless if that longest duration has
float or not. This determines the shortest time possible to complete the project.
The critical path determination:
After having computed various time estimates, we are now interested in finding the critical path
of the network. A network will consist of a number of paths. A path is a continuous series of
activities through the network that leads from the initial event (or node) of the network to its
terminal event. For finding the critical path, we list out all possible paths through a network
along with their duration. Assuming a network under consideration, has various paths have
been listed below with Path Length (in days)
1–2–3–5–6 =36days
1–2–4–5–6 =52days
1–2–3–4–5–6 =50days
Critical path: A path in a project network is called critical if it is the longest path. The
activities lying on the critical path are called the critical activities. In the above example, the
path 1–2–4–5–6 with the longest duration of 52 days is the critical path and the activities 1–2,
2–4, 4–5 and 5–6 are the critical activities.
Calculation of Floats:
It may be observed that for every critical activity in a network, the earliest start and latest start
time are the same. This is so since the critical activities cannot be scheduled later than their
earliest schedule time without delaying the total project duration, they do not have any
flexibility in scheduling. However, non-critical activities do have some flexibility i.e. these
activities can be delayed for some time without affecting the project duration. This flexibility is
termed as slack in case of an event and as float in case of an activity
5.2.5.4 Learning Activities
5.2.5.5 Self-Assessment
1 what is a critical path
2 Draw a critical path network diagram for the following data.
Task Immediate Predecessor
A —
B —
C B
D B
E B
F E
G A, D, C.
5.2.5.7 References
5.2.6 Learning Outcome 6 Establish installation team
Setting Goals
This emphasizes the importance of clear objectives and individual and team goals. Team
members become involved in action planning to identify ways to define success and failure
and achieve goals. This is intended to strengthen motivation and foster a sense of ownership.
By identifying specific outcomes and tests of incremental success, teams can measure their
progress. Many organizations negotiate a team charter with the team and (union leaders)
Role clarification
This emphasizes improving team members' understanding of their own and others' respective
roles and duties. This is intended to reduce ambiguity and foster understanding of the
importance of structure by activities aimed at defining and adjusting roles. It emphasizes the
members' interdependence and the value of having each member focus on their own role in
the team's success.
Problem solving
This emphasizes identifying major problems
Interpersonal relations
This emphasizes increasing teamwork skills such as giving and receiving
support, communication and sharing. Teams with fewer interpersonal conflicts generally
function more effectively than others. A facilitator guides the conversations to develop mutual
trust and open communication between team members.
But sometimes, you get to create your own team. It can happen on special projects when
you're pulling people from different departments, or when you are creating a new department.
If you're in the situation where you get to create a team from scratch (or have the opportunity
to add headcount to an existing group), here's how to create the best team possible.
If your task is nebulous, you will have a tough time knowing what skills you need to find.
You’re likely tempted to jump right in and hire people with the general skills that fit your
overall department. (I need marketing people. I need creative people.)
If you want to build an internal team, you have advantages and disadvantages. The
advantages are that you already know the people from whom you are choosing. You know
their strengths and their weaknesses. You know who is good at technical work. You know
who is creative. You know who is whiny. The disadvantages are that you've got to pull the
team from your existing staff, so you can't fix any weaknesses that already exist in your
potential team members. You have to deal with the politics of pulling someone from another
group's staff. You can't ignore the fact that you can damage relationships if you steal too
many of the best people from other departments.
Don't hire the administrative assistant first. You may think, “Okay, I'll get this out of the
way.” But the administration's job is to help the rest of the team and support them. If you hire
this person first, you need to find additional people with whom they can work, instead of the
other way around. Start with your most senior person, or the person you want leading the
team, and work down through the rest of the team members from this hire. You want your
most senior person to help you with the additional hiring—either internally or externally.
Don't just extol the virtues of working on this team. You need to state the challenges honestly
to potential employees. For example, you might say: “We'll implement a new software
system. You will work hard and put in long hours. We'll experience pushback from senior
managers, and I will fight for the team, but it will be difficult.” This way, you'll get staff
members who know what to expect. Don't lie and say the team’s task is a bed of roses unless
you really think that is how the team's work will play out. You'll lose your best team members
who will feel as if you fooled them.
6. Remember to Manage
Once you get your team together, you've got to run it. Great teams seldom run well without
a great leader. That's your job. Make sure that you work to make the team cohesive and hard
working. Don't ask more of them than you ask of yourself. If you are managing the team
leader, the same applies. You need to check in on a pre-planned schedule to ensure that the
team stays on track. If it's not, work with the team leader to regroup and move forward.
1. If you're in the situation where you get to create a team from scratch (or have the
opportunity to add headcount to an existing group), outline six steps to create the
best team possible?
5.2.6.7 References
Types of permits
General
A written permit to work system provides formal written procedure and formal actions to ensure that
potentially hazardous activities are carried out as safely as possible. The work permit is a written
document which authorizes persons to carry out the work concerned warns of possible dangers and
clearly states the precautions to be taken for the job to be carried out safely.
The permit ensures that full consideration is given to the hazards and risks, and that these are
properly dealt with, prior to commencement of the work. The permit to work has to be filled by the
subcontractors for what concerns its activities and references. Contractor will give the necessary
support as required.
The permit to work shall clearly specify the particular equipment and the construction area involved,
the extent of work allowed, the conditions to be observed and the duration of the permit. Should any
doubt exist as to the requirements for specific types of Permits, YOUR COMPANY NAME’s Field
HSE Coordinator and/or YOUR COMPANY NAME’s Permit Coordinator should be consulted for
advice.
Activities Requiring a Permit to Work
A Permit to Work will be required for the following activities:
• Any activity on live electrical equipment.
• Areas electrically classified.
• Closure of site roads to enable excavation and similar activities to be carried out.
• Confined space work (i.e. any work inside a vessel).
• Confined space work.
• Connection to the electrical supply.
• Connection to the water supply.
• Crane Lifts; lifting operations over living lines / equipment.
• Disconnecting or opening of any closed pipeline or vessel containing flammable or other
hazardous material.
• Erection of site huts and lay down areas.
• Excavation and trenching.
• Facilities for the storage of cylinder gases, highly flammable liquids, paint or similar
hazardous materials.
• Hot work of any type, where heat is used or generated.
• Hot work.
• Installation of pits for the storage of sealed radioactive sources.
• Isolation/lock-out/tag-out.
• Radiography (i.e. any work involving use of radioactive source, including the installation of
pits for the storage of sealed radioactive sources).
• Working in hazardous zoned areas.
The Electrical Competent Person should complete this form and demonstrate that all necessary
isolations have been made and that the system or plant is safe to be worked on. The electrical work
certificate shall be utilized when an energization or de-energization operation should be carried
out.
Lock out-tag out
De-energization (Isolation) may be required prior to installation, inspection, repair, cleaning or
dismantling. Where a job involves isolation of equipment, there shall be a work permit for the
job and a lockout and tag-out procedure shall be followed. A lockout generally involves:
• Stopping all energy flows (for example, by tuning off switches or valves on supply lines).
• Locking switches and valves.
• Securing the machine, device or power transmission line in de-energizer state.
Electrical isolation may be required to immobilize machinery or to protect personnel working in
electrical equipment. Situations involving electrical isolation including rotating machinery and
machinery with moving parts and entry into vessel which contain stirrers or agitators. Electrical
isolation should be performed only by a competent electrical engineer.
An example of a Warning Tag and Tag-out and lock-out are shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Example Warning Tag and Tag-out/Lock-out tags.
TAG
No.
DO NOT
OPERATE
CAUTION
REM
DAT
ARK
SIG
E :
S :COMMISSIONING TEAM
NED
BY :
If other organizations or individuals working on equipment shall also install their locks and tags at
locations have to be fit. In that case multiply lockout clips (Hasps) shall be used if necessary. When
all padlocks will be removed energization will be possible. An example of Hasps is shown in Figure
4.
The Competent Electrical Engineer shall report all actions on the substation logbook for record
purpose. As a general rule other discipline engineers cannot interfere with any electrical isolation
work to be executed inside the substation for safety reasons and nobody (with the only exception of
the Competent Electrical Engineer) can take or keep the padlock keys for their scopes.
Field HSE Coordinator should hold spare keys for all Lock Outs. This ensures no keys will go
missing, if they are controlled by the Permit to Work Coordinator.
Where such risks are identified, supporting Certificates are enclosed in the Work Permit.
Permit closure
The Permit to Work will be considered to be closed when YOUR COMPANY NAME’s Issuing
Authority signs the completion section of the Permit to Work (after receiving the subcontractor
confirmation on the Permit to Work that the work is complete). Acceptance of this signature is
conditioned to:
• Completion of the work according to the instructions;
• Cleanliness of work area, including the removal of all the work equipment;
• Re-installation of all safety conditions.
___ _______
_____________ TIME ________________ DESCRIPTION OF THE W ORK
_______________________________________________________________________________
TO BE
CTOR
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________
The
WORKabove signing person is responsible to ensure the work is performed under all the
EQUIPMENT
mentioned and required safety precautions. Failure on this will be subject to disciplinary actions.
__________________________________________________________________________________
_______
INDIVIDUAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT (CROSS W ITH AN X):
________________________________________________________________________________
□ Helmet □ Hear Protectors □ Gas Mask □ Dielectric Gloves □_Safety Gloves
___________________________
□ Subcontractor
□ receiving Authority _
□ Safety Shoes _
□
TO BE FILLED BY
□ W elder’s Apron
Subcontractor □ Protective Goggles
performing Authority ______________________________________________□ Anti-Dust Overalls
Date
________ □ W elders
Time __________ Breeches □ H2S Mask
□ W work Clothes □ Safety Belts □ Dielectric Boots □ Safety Harness
□ Double Safety Harness
□ Dust Mask □ □ □ □ __________
COMMON PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
_________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
________________________
OTHER SAFETY MEASURES
__________________________________________________________
_______________
__________________________________________________________________________________
________________________
SANCTION AUTHORIZATION SIGNATURES
DATE TIME
Contractor Issuing Authority ___________________________________________________Date
________ Time _________
Is Electrical PTW required Is Confined Space PTW required In case Electrical or Confined
YES ___ NO ___ YES ___ NO ___ Space PTW is required? YES
___ NO ___
PTW Number PTW Number If yes, attach a Copy.
Site Preparation completed and work can I understand the precaution to be taken as described
commence. above.
Contractor Operating Authority Sub-Contractor Operating Authority
The Work is completed and working area cleared The Site has been checked and working Area
___________________________ accepted
__________ Subcontractor _____________________________
performing Authority ___________ Contractor Operating
CLOSURE
Authority
Electrical licenses
Energy regulatory commission offers licenses to qualified trained technicians and engineers under
the following classes.
Class C-2
This class entitles the holder to carry out electrical installation work for connection to a single
phase at low voltage, restricted to up to two storey residential and commercial buildings not used
as factories or places of public entertainment.
Requirements:
Electrical wireman certificate 1 & 2 (copy)
or
Diploma in Electrical engineering (copy)
It can a Technical and Vocational Education and Training certificate, a Technical Education
Programme certificate or an electrical engineering certificate from a recognized institution.
Bank deposit slip for kshs 250 (copy)
Identity card (copy)
Class C-1
The holder of this license is entitled to carry out electrical installation work in class C-2 and for
connection to three phase supply at low voltage, restricted to up to four storey buildings not used
as factories or places of public entertainment.
Requirements:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering certificate (copy)
or
Diploma in Electrical engineering (copy)
or
Electrical technician license- C2 (copy)
Must have held C2 certificate for more than 2 years.
Bank deposit slip for kshs 500 (copy)
Identity card (copy)
Class - B
Holder of this class can carry out electrical installation works as in C-1 but without limitation as to
number of storeys in the buildings whether used as factories or places of public entertainment or
for connection to supply metered at voltages not exceeding medium.
Requirements:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering certificate (copy)
or
Diploma in Electrical engineering
or
Electrical technician license - C1 (copy)
Must have held a C1 technician license for more than 2 years.
or
Registration with Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board (copy)
Bank deposit slip for kshs 750 (copy)
Identity card (copy)
Class A-1
The holder of this license is entitled to carry out all kinds of electrical installation works.
Requirements:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering certificate (copy
2
Registration with Engineers Board of Kenya (copy)
or
Electrical technician license - B (copy)
Must have had an electrical technician license class B for more than 2 years.
Bank deposit slip for kshs 1,000 (copy)
Identity card (copy)
Class A-2
The holder of this license is entitled to carry out specialized electrical installation work.
Requirements:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering certificate (copy)
or
Diploma in Electrical engineering (copy)
Bank deposit slip for kshs 1,000 (copy)
Identity card (copy)
5.2.7.4 Self-Assessment
1. What are the requirements for registering electrical technician license class C-1
5.2.7.6 References
PN12375 Last updated July 2020 - Electrical licensing eligibility guide
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses).
Energy regulatory commission licensing (www.epra.go.ke)
HSSE 14.20.01 - BPWE JSEA Procedure
HSSE 13.40.01 - BPWE Confined Space Procedure
5.2.8 learning outcome 8: Prepare work site
5.2.8.1 Introduction to learning outcome
The promotion of health and safety measures is a mutual objective for the contractor and his
employees at all levels. It is intended that the contractor will conduct his affairs at the work site in
a manner which will not cause risk to the health and safety of employees or the general public. The
contractor shall exercise his responsibility as an employer and make every effort to meet his legal
obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act to ensure the health and safety of his
employees and that of the general public paying particular attention to the provision of the
following;
Installation equipment and procedures of work that are safe.
Safe arrangements for the use, handling, storage and transport of tools, materials and
equipment.
Sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision to enable all employees to
contribute positively to their own safety and health at work and to avoid hazards.
• A safe place of work, and safe access to it.
• A healthy working environment.
• Adequate welfare services.
Note: Reference should be made to the appropriate safety etc. manuals
5.2.8.2 Performance Standard
5.2.8.2.1 Special work, hazards and safety requirements are identified
5.2.8.2.2 Identified hazards and safety issues are mitigated according to OSHA
5.2.8.2.3 Work plan is confirmed in accordance with legislative and regulatory requirements and
standard operating procedures
5.2.8.2.4 Work site is prepared for accessibility of utilities
5.2.8.3 Information Sheet
Safety hazards exist in every workplace, by identifying hazards at the workplace, one will be better
prepared to control or eliminate them and prevent accidents, injuries, property damage, and
downtime.
There are a number of factors that are most likely to contribute to potential hazard at the work
site;
• Working heights
Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that falls to a lower level accounted for 14 percent of all
fatalities in 2014, and OSHA standards related to scaffolding and ladders are regularly among
the most frequently cited violations. Employers need to identify all locations where fall
protection is necessary – as well as where the engineered anchor points are – and train
employees and regularly audit the fall protection program, she said.
• Poor housekeeping This is where everything is cluttered all over with no clear pathways poor
lighting system liquids poured on the floor and Workers shouldn’t wait for housekeeping or
sanitation crews to take care of these issue rather everyone should take it as a responsibility to
maintain good house keeping
• Electrical – Extension cords
Inappropriate use of electrical cords is likely to pause a safety risk extension cords lying on the
ground for extended periods of time are a trip hazard. They also can be subject to traffic abuse if
run over by forklifts or feet, which can wear down insulation and create shock hazards.
Employers should assess whether extension cords are truly being used for temporary measures. At
the end of a task the cord should be gathered up at the end and stored. It is recommended to
establish a system of periodical inspection of extension cords, as well as train employees safe use
of extension cables
• Confined spaces
confined spaces have occurred because a contractor didn’t issue a permit or failed to carry out a
risk assessment.
The electrical installation shall comply with all regulations on safety aspects issued by the Kenyan
Bureau of standards, National Environmental and Management Authority (NEMA) and other
relevant authorities.
Occupational Safety and health act (OSHA)
OSHA focuses on the provision of all safety and protection equipment designed to be worn, or
held, to protect against a risk to health and safety. This includes most types of protective clothing,
and equipment such as eye, foot and head protection, safety harnesses, life jackets and high
visibility clothing. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, employers must provide free of
charge any safety and protective equipment and employees must make full and proper use of it.
Safety signs such as those shown at below are useful reminders of the type of safety and
protection equipment to be used in a particular area. The vulnerable parts of the body which may
need protection are the head, eyes, ears, lungs, torso, hands and feet and, in addition, protection
from falls may need to be considered.
Objects falling from a height present the major hazard against which head protection is provided.
Other hazards include striking the head against projections and hair and clothing becoming
entangled in machinery.
Typical methods of protection include helmets, light duty scalp protectors
Fig. Safety sign showing protective equipment (Taken from BEIW, 5 th edition)
To assist electricians in their understanding of the Regulations, the work site manual should
contain the safety requirements of doing: Selection and Erection; Isolation and Switching;
Inspection and Testing; Protection against Fire; Protection against Electric Shock; Protection
against Overcurrent; Special Locations and Earthing and Bonding. These safety guide manuals
are intended to be read in conjunction with the Regulations.
Discuss the steps to be followed in Trainees to list the regulatory bodies alongside the
Confirming the legal documents certificate that they provide at a construction site
regarding the building to be installed
with electricity
Discuss the accessibility of the site in
terms of infrastructure, water and
electricity
5.2.8.5 Self-Assessment
1) which are two safety responsibilities of an;
i) Employer
ii) Employee at a work site
2) which are the five steps of hazard assessment at a work site
3) which three factors are most likely to cause an accident at a site
4) what are the recommendations of OSHA regarding safety at a site
5.2.8.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Materials
Stationary
flipchart
whiteboards
hazard assessment forms
personal protective equipment
CHAPTER 6: PERFORMING ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
Unit of learning code ENG/CU/EI/CR/02/5
Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard: Perform Electrical Installation
The act provides for the health, safety and welfare of persons employed, and all persons lawfully present
at workplaces and related matters. It is obligatory for an occupier to provide and maintain plant and systems
and procedures of work that are safe and without risk to workers' health. Employer must ensure safety and
absence of risks to health in connection with the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and
substances. Provision of such information, instruction, training and supervision of workers as is necessary
is very crucial maintain safe and healthy workplace.
Workplace and work environment that is safe, without health risks and adequate as regards facilities and
arrangements for the worker's welfare at work should be maintained. Workers should be well informed of
any risks and imminent danger related to new technologies and they should participate in the application
and review of safety and health measures.
Occupier must also ensure proper cleanliness, ventilation, lighting, drainage of floor, sanitary convenience,
avoid overcrowding and control air pollution, noise and vibration at the workplace. Every occupier is
required to establish a safety and health committee at the workplace in accordance with regulations
prescribed under the law.
Preventive and protective measures should be taken after proper risk assessment (at least once a year) to
ensure that all chemicals, machinery, equipment, tools and process are safe and without risk to health and
comply with the requirements of safety and health provisions in this Act. An occupier who fails to comply
with a duty imposed on him commits an offence and he/she is liable to a fine not exceeding 500,000
shillings or to imprisonment up to six months or to both.
All the above provisions are applicable also to the mine workers, as enunciated under the Mines Act 2016.
Free Protection
In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007, it is the responsibility of employer to
provide free protective equipment including clothing and appliances, and where necessary, suitable gloves,
footwear, goggles and head coverings to the workers involved in hazardous work. The type of PPE needed
varies depending on the nature of work being performed. The right use of PPE reduces risk of accident and
illness and helps in creation of safer working environment.
Safety consultant, registered by the Director, assesses the suitability and effectiveness of protective clothes
and appliances.
Training
In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007, it is the responsibility of an employer
to provide instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure health and safety at work of his
workers.
Employment of worker at any machine or in any process that may cause ill health or bodily injury is
prohibited unless worker has been fully instructed about the hazards involved and precautions that must
be observed. Worker should be properly trained or required to work under supervision of experienced
persons.
The training is carried out on recruitment; transfer or change of job; introduction of new work equipment
or materials or change in equipment or materials; and introduction of new technology. The training must
be arranged regularly at workplace during working hours and adapted accordingly with the new and
changed risks.
Employer must ensure that all the persons involved in work must receive appropriate instructions
regarding safety and health risks including emergency procedures during their activities at the workplace
and actions to be taken in case of an emergency.
If a person fails to comply with these provisions, he/she commits an offence and is liable to a fine up to
200,000 shillings or to imprisonment up to six months or to both.
Labour inspection system
Labour inspection system is present in Kenya. Occupational Safety and Health Act provides for a vibrant
Labour inspection system (part IV).
The Occupational Safety, Health and Injury Benefits Authority (OSHIBA) is responsible for the
implementation of occupational health and safety, for improving and ensuring health, safety, security and
good working conditions at the enterprises, inspecting enterprises and ensuring the law enforcement.
The national legislation provides inspectors the power to enter, inspect and examine the work premises at
any time during day or night with or without prior notice; take measurements, photographs, samples and
make recordings for the purpose of examination and investigation; ask for registers, documents,
certificates and notices to inspect, examine and copy them; interview any one; if the inspector is a
medical practitioner he/she may carry out medical examinations; and may take police officer along with
him/her if necessary.
If an occupier or his representatives do not facilitate the inspector and obstruct the execution of his duties,
he/she commits an offence and is liable to a fine up to 100,000 shillings or to imprisonment up to six months
or to both.
Labour inspectors are authorized to conduct proceedings arising under this Act; to obtain samples of any
substance used or intended to be used at workplace; to deal with the cause of imminent danger by seizing
it or causing it to be rendered harmless; and issue notices (improvement or prohibition). Inspector must not
disclose any information obtained during the course of his/her duty, otherwise he/she is liable (Work Injury
Benefits Act, 2007)le to a fine up to 100,000 shillings.
Work Injury Benefits Act, 2007 (WIBA, 2007) is subordinate to The Constitution of Kenya, 2010. Enacted
th
in 2007, WIBA, 2007 is still effective by virtue of section 7 of the 6 Schedule of the Constitution.
Article 41 of the Constitution gives right to every individual to entitlement of reasonable working
conditions.
One of the work conditions is compensation of injuries sustained at work by workers.
WIBA, 2007 provides for compensation of injuries sustained at work.
A number of sections in WIBA, 2007 were however nullified by high court in petition No. 185 of 2008 by
LSK and to this date the sections remain unconstitutional. The sections include: -
- 4, 7(1) and (4), 10(4), 16, 23(1), 25(1) and (3), 52(1) and (2), 58(2)
Work injury benefits act, 2007
This Act is applicable to all employees except the armed forces (the army, air force and navy).
For the purpose of the Act, the following persons are not regarded as employees: -
• Casual employee not employed for the employer’s trade or business.
• An employee deployed outside Kenya for a continuous period of 12 or more months.
• A dependent – Any person who at the time of the accident is dependent upon the employee for
necessaries of life.
Employer’s obligations
• Register with the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services
• Repair, maintain and replace when necessary appliances for use of victim due to the condition
inflicted by the accident
• Furnish the Director with particulars of the business.
• Keep a register for at least 6 years of earning and other employee records and produce it to the
Director when required.
• Send notice of occurrence of an accident to the Director
• Convey the accident victim to and from hospital
• Provide first aid to the injured person
• Defray any expenses reasonably incurred by an employee as the result of an accident arising out of
and in the course of employment
• Pay compensation to an employee injured while at work.
• Pay reasonable funeral expenses of a deceased employee.
Right of compensation
• An employee who is involved in an accident resulting in disablement or death is subject and entitled
to compensation.
• An employee on his/her way to/from place of work by means of transport provided by the employer
is entitled to compensation if injured in the process.
• An employee temporarily deployed outside Kenya for a period of 12 or less months and injured
during that deployment has right of compensation.
• An employee injured while undertaking training for performance of emergency services
Not eligible for compensation
• Misconduct and if the accident is not serious.
NB. An accident is deemed serious if the degree of disablement is 40% or more.
• An employee who willingly presents false information about the injury is not entitled to
compensation
• An employee whose disablement or death was caused or prolonged by deliberate refusal or willful
neglect of employee to submit to medical aid.
• If an accident is not reported within 12 months, then the benefits are lost.
Reporting of Accidents
• To the employer by the employee or on behalf of the employee immediately upon occurrence of the
accident.
• To the Director by the employer
i. Within 24 hours if fatal
ii. Within 7 days if non-fatal
• The employee may also report the accident to the Director directly.
The director
• May make inquiry into the occurrence of the accident
• May cause medical examination to be carried out on the claimant
• May require production of medical report by the employer for the purpose of the claim
• May lodge a claim of compensation within 12 months after the date of the accident on behalf of
the injured or 12 months after the death of an accident victim if the accident was not reported to
the Director.
• May convey the compensation funds to the claimant within 30 days from the date of remittance by
employer/insurer.
The injured person just like any other person has a right to fair administrative action pursuant to article 47
of the Constitution.
The Director of Occupational Safety and Health services has a duty of administering WIBA, 2007.
Being a public servant, he is bound by article 232 of the Constitution to uphold values and principles of
public service bearing in mind provisions of article 47 in the discharge of duties outlined in WIBA, 2007.
It follows for other public servants e.g. the Director of WIBA, 2007 and implied officers working under the
2 Directors in the Act’s spirit.
Compensation
An accident disabling a worker for 3 or more days should be compensated with periodical payment
equivalent to employees’ earnings but not for a period of exceeding 12 months.
Compensation expires upon termination of disablement or if the employee resumes work of greater earnings
Permanent disablement = Monthly salary x percentage of incapacity x 96 months
Percentage of incapacity may be determined by the doctor attending to the injured.
Earning in respect of temporary incapacity will be equivalent to the periodical earnings while away if the
accident victim was not paid while away.
Occupational Diseases
• These are diseases arising from the work conditions where the employee was engaged. On the event of
occurrence of an occupational disease, an employee is entitled to compensation whereby the percentage
of incapacity is determined by the doctor.
Appeals
• Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Director is to lodge an objection to the Director within 60
days of such decision.
• The Director is to reply within 14 days. If not satisfied by the reply, the objector to appeal to the
industrial court.
Functions of the Director of WIBA
• Register employers
• Supervise implementation of WIBA
• Ensure all employers insure their employees
• Receive reports of accidents and carry out investigations
• Ensure compensation of the injured
General Penalty
200,000/= fine or a jail term not exceeding 12 months or both
It is not explicit as to whom delegated prosecutorial powers are vested in WIBA, 2007.
Contravention of provisions of WIBA, 2007 is criminal and their provisions of Criminal Procedure Code
Cap. 75 and the Evidence Act Cap.80 come into play during prosecution.
Article 157 of the Constitution establishes the office Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in whom powers
of prosecution of all criminal cases are vested.
Courts before whom WIBA, 2007 cases are brought have judicial authority as provided for in article 159
The state has a duty to ensure access to justice by any person aggrieved in matters relating to compensation
in line the requirement of article 48.
Persons coming within purview of action under the provisions of the WIBA, 2007 have rights as enshrined
in articles 49, 50 and 51 of the constitution.
In conclusion
WIBA, 2007 is compliant to the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 by being explicitly in line with the following
th
articles and section of Schedules: - articles 41, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 157, 159, 232 and section 7 of the 6
Schedule.
The IEE wiring regulations BS 7671
Protection of persons and livestock from shock and burns, etc. and the prevention of damage to property
are priorities. In consequence, therefore, thorough inspection and testing of an installation and subsequent
remedial work where necessary will significantly reduce the risks. Electric shock is the passage of current
through the body of such magnitude as to have significant harmful effects. Figure 1 illustrates the generally
accepted effects of current passing through the human body. There are two ways in which we can be at
risk:
The Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999, was amended to comply with the
Constitution and integrate emerging environmental issues. The Environmental Management and
Coordination (Amendment) Act (EMCA) provides the framework law for environmental conservation,
management and coordination. Through EMCA, the government has attempted to harmonize policy
regulations for the management of natural resources in Kenya. The EMCA provides for the protection of
forests and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of forestry related developments. The institutions
formed under EMCA are:
• National Environment Management Authority,
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) was established as the lead agency of
government charged with the implementation of all policies relating to the environment, and to exercise
general supervision and coordination over all matters relating to the environment. In consultation with lead
agencies, like KFS, NEMA is empowered to develop regulations, prescribe measures and standards and,
issue guidelines for the management and conservation of natural resources and the environment.
Provisions of the Act relevant to forestry a) Environmental Protection
The right to a clean and healthy environment was first acknowledged in the EMCA, 1999. This right has
now been elevated to constitutional status. The EMCA provides for environmental protection through;
Environmental Impact Assessments, Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Audits and
monitoring as well as environmental restoration orders, conservation orders, and easements. The Act is
based on principles such as: the precautionary principle, the polluter-pays principle, environmental
restoration and compensation to victims of pollution. These principles also apply in the Forest Conservation
and Management Act (FCMA, 2016). Section 44 provides that the KFS must consider the aforementioned
before granting concessions and mining permits within a forest reserve. Section 28 of EMCA also provides
that persons engaged in activities that are most likely to have adverse environmental effects must pay
deposit bonds equivalent to the cost of environmental restoration. This is the Environmental Protection
Bond in the FCMA, 2016. The Amendment Act is also based on principles of sustainable development
such as public participation, cultural and social principles, the principle of international co-operation in the
case of shared environmental resources and the principle of intra-generational and intergenerational equity.
Protection of the rights of forest adjacent communities
Traditional interests of forest adjacent communities are also protected in the EMCA (Section 43). The Act
also promotes community conservation of forests.
The roles of County governments in environmental management
The EMCA has included the role of County governments in forest management through formation of a
County Environment Committee (CEC) in Section 29. The committee will be in charge of proper
management of the environment within the county for which it is appointed, including forestry functions
such as provision of extension services to individuals and communities within their jurisdiction.
Functions of NEMA related to forestry
The NEMA, which is the lead implementing agency of EMCA, is mandated to promote the integration of
environmental considerations into national development goals, conduct the valuation of natural resources
in the country, review land use guidelines in consultation with other lead agencies and make
recommendations to the relevant authorities. It is also mandated to promote environmental education,
public awareness and public participation in environmental management, encourage incentives for
voluntary environmental conservation practices and work with other lead agencies to issue guidelines and
prescribe measures for the attainment of at least 10% tree cover of the land area of Kenya.
Registration of forests
Section 48 of EMCA outlines the procedure regarding registration of forests. NEMA and the Chief
Conservator of Forests, following consultations, may enter into contractual arrangements with private
owners for the registration of land as forest land.
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
The EMCA expressly provides for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Section 56 states that the
Cabinet Secretary, in consultation with relevant lead agencies will issue guidelines and prescribe measures
on climate change. The Act also has provisions for the protection of wetlands in Section 42. The Act
restricts introduction of alien species to the environment, which coincides with the provisions of the FCMA,
2016.
Dispute resolution mechanisms under the Act
The EMCA gives power to citizens to apply for redress on environmental issues, whether affected directly
or indirectly. Specifically, the establishment of the National Environmental Complaints Committee in
Section 31 and the National Environment Tribunal in Article 125 to address environmental grievances. The
Land and Environment Court formed under the Environment and Land Act, 2011 will also be charged with
handling appeals of environmental grievances as well as forest-based conflicts. These institutions were
established to provide the link between environmental management and the judiciary.
Forest conservation and management
Section 124A of the Act provides for the development of legislation by NEMA and lead institutions. In
collaboration with KFS, NEMA will develop, issue and implement regulations, procedures, guidelines and
measures for the sustainable use of forests, to control harvesting, protect water catchment areas, prevent
soil erosion and regulate human settlement. Article 46 of the Act requires that every County Environment
Committee (CEC) should identify areas for afforestation and reforestation as well as encourage community
members to plant trees. Article 49 (d) of EMCA also provides for the promotion of renewable energy
through planting of trees and woodlots by individual, communities and institutions.
Conservation of biodiversity
Sections 50 and 51 of the Act provides for the conservation of biological diversity. The Act requires NEMA
to prepare an inventory on biological diversity and specific conservation measures, including in situ and ex
situ conservation, identifying endangered, rare or threatened species, identifying potential threats to
biodiversity, prohibiting and controlling the introduction of alien species into natural habitats and
protection of indigenous knowledge among others. Section 8 of the FCMA, 2016 has a similar provision.
The EMCA also provides for the protection of genetic resources and environmentally significant areas
(Section 53 and 54).
The IEE Wiring Regulations 17th edition requirements for electrical installations
The Institution of Electrical Engineers Requirements for Electrical Installations (the IEE Regulations) are
non-statutory regulations. They relate principally to the design, selection, erection, inspection and testing
of electrical installations, whether permanent or temporary, in and about buildings generally and to
agricultural and horticultural premises, construction sites and caravans and their sites. Paragraph 7 of the
introduction to the EWR says: ‘the IEE Wiring Regulations is a code of practice which is widely recognized
and accepted in Kenya and compliance with them is likely to achieve compliance with all relevant aspects
of the Electricity at Work Regulations’. The IEE Wiring Regulations are the National Standard in Kenya
and apply to installations. However, they do not apply to electrical installations in mines and quarries,
where special regulations apply because of the adverse conditions experienced there.
The current edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations is the 17th edition 2008. The main reason for
incorporating the IEE Wiring Regulations into British Standard BS 7671: 2008 was to create harmonization
with world Standards.
The IEE Regulations take account of the technical intent of the CENELEC world, which in turn are based
on the IEC International Standards.
The purpose in harmonizing Standards is to help develop a single market economy so that there are no trade
barriers to electrical goods and services across the world Economic Area.
To assist electricians in their understanding of the Regulations a number of guidance notes have been
published. The guidance notes which I will frequently make reference to in this book are those contained
in the On-Site Guide. Eight other guidance notes booklets are also currently available. These are:
• Selection and Erection
• Isolation and Switching
• Inspection and Testing
• Protection against Fire
• Protection against Electric Shock
• Protection against Overcurrent
• Special Locations
• Earthing and Bonding
These guidance notes are intended to be read in conjunction with the Regulations.
The IEE Wiring Regulations are the electrician’s bible and provide the authoritative framework of
information for anyone working in the electrotechnical industry.
Common causes of workplace accidents
1. Lifting
It is so easy to injure yourself while lifting heavy objects. Eliminate back injuries and muscle strains by
ensuring that everyone practices safe lifting procedures. It’s always best to recruit a helping hand or to use
machinery to move large objects.
2. Lighting
Poor lighting can be a major cause of trips, falls, and other workplace injuries. If you can’t see the hazards,
they’re much more likely to become serious problems. Every area in the workplace should be well lit,
including offices, warehouses, parking areas, and outside entryways.
3. Violence
Hundreds of people die each year from workplace violence. Employees in conflict with one another tend
to be especially unsafe when working together. OSHA has guidelines for violence prevention if you need
help resolving these issues in your workplace.
4. Trips/Falls
Consistently one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, trips and falls continue to be a major problem.
Slippery floors, improper footwear, rushing employees, and weather conditions all contribute to trip and
fall hazards. Make sure all employees are well trained on the relevant safety information and verify that the
physical conditions in the workplace are up to standards to lower the number of injuries in this category.
5. Stress
Physical and mental stress are less commonly recognized workplace hazards, but they can cause serious or
even fatal accidents. Employees must be in the right mindset and physically sound for the job.
Communicate the importance of mental and physical health to all employees. It’s important to take breaks
and seek help with managing stressful situations.
6. Fatigue
As mentioned before, it is imperative that employees show up to work physically prepared. A lack of
adequate sleep can cause exhaustion, inattention, and accidents. Even a well-rested employee can grow
fatigued while on the job, so it’s necessary to take breaks at regular intervals or when needed.
7. Shortcuts
Employees should never take shortcuts on the jobs, especially when dealing with dangerous machinery or
circumventing safety procedures. The regulations are in place to protect employees and to make sure
everything is done correctly.
8. Overconfidence
Employees should be confident about what they’re doing, but overconfidence may diminish carefulness or
attention. Overconfident employees are likely to ignore safety precautions and forego double checking their
work. It’s important for them to understand that accidents can occur any time to anyone, no matter how
skilled or experienced.
9. Poor Housekeeping
A messy workplace is a dangerous workplace. Objects and debris on the floors pose tripping hazards, wet
or dirty floors can cause slips, cluttered surfaces can conceal sharp objects, poorly contained chemicals are
an obvious hazard… you get the picture. Besides the dangers, good housekeeping sets a good example for
other safety precautions as well.
10. Lack of Preparation
No one should ever be on the job without the proper knowledge, training, certifications, tools, or PPE.
Preparedness on the job is one of the absolute best ways for employees to stay safe.
11. Mental Distractions
It’s easier said than done, but employees must try to leave personal matters at the door. Being distracted on
the job is similar to being fatigued, stressed, or overconfident. Workers simply cannot perform their jobs
to their full potential if their mind is elsewhere.
Have you noticed any of these behaviors in your workplace? It may be time to set up some refresher training
to reduce the risk of injuries and improve overall performance in your organization. Better safe than sorry,
as they say.
Personal Protective equipment (PPE)
PPE, falling under the scope of the above-mentioned Directive, is intended for use in work and home
activities, as well as in leisure and sport events. Such activities can bring harm to the user’s body in various
ways. To be ensured user’s health and safety in any risky situation, a proper type of PPE must be held or
worn. In this regard, there are eight types of personal protective equipment critical for the defense of users
against hazards.
Many people are injured or killed in electrical accidents due to ignorance or carelessness.
There are various safety/protective wear that needs to be used in a work environment.
I. Class A
Class A fires are fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and many plastics
II. Class B
Class B fires are fires in flammable liquids such as gasoline, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints,
solvents, alcohols. Class B fires also include flammable gases such as propane and butane. Class B fires do
not include fires involving cooking oils and grease
III. Class C
Class C fires are fires involving energized electrical equipment such as computers, servers, motors,
transformers, and appliances. Remove the power and the Class C fire becomes one of the other classes of
fire.
IV. Class D
Class D fires are fires in combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and
potassium.
V. Class K
Class K fires are fires in cooking oils and greases such as animal and vegetable fats.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
I. Water and Foam
Water and Foam fire extinguishers extinguish the fire by taking away the heat element of the fire triangle.
Foam agents also separate the oxygen element from the other elements. Water extinguishers are for Class
A fires only - they should not be used on Class B or C fires. The discharge stream could spread the
flammable liquid in a Class B fire or could create a shock hazard on a Class C fire.
II. Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers extinguish fire by taking away the oxygen element of the fire triangle
and also be removing the heat with a very cold discharge. Carbon dioxide can be used on Class B & C fires.
They are usually ineffective on Class A fires.
III. Dry Chemical
Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting the chemical reaction of the
fire triangle.
Today's most widely used type of fire extinguisher is the multipurpose dry chemical that is effective on
Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also works by creating a barrier between the oxygen element and
the fuel element on Class A fires. Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is important to
use the correct extinguisher for the type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-ignite
after apparently being extinguished successfully.
IV. Wet Chemical
Wet Chemical is a new agent that extinguishes the fire by removing the heat of the fire triangle and prevents
re-ignition by creating a barrier between the oxygen and fuel elements. Wet chemical of Class K
extinguishers was developed for modern, high efficiency deep fat fryers in commercial cooking operations.
Some may also be used on Class A fires in commercial kitchens.
V. Clean Agent
Halogenated or Clean Agent extinguishers include the halon agents as well as the newer and less ozone
depleting halocarbon agents. They extinguish the fire by interrupting the chemical
reaction and/or removing heat from the fire triangle.
Clean agent extinguishers are effective on Class A, B and C fires. Smaller sized handheld extinguishers are
not large enough to obtain a 1A rating and may carry only a Class B and C rating.
VI. Dry Powder
Dry Powder extinguishers are similar to dry chemical except that they extinguish the fire by separating
the fuel from the oxygen element or by removing the heat element of the fire triangle. However, dry
powder extinguishers are for Class D or combustible metal fires, only. They are ineffective on all other
classes of fires.
VII. Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical
Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting
the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. Like the stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers, the
multipurpose dry chemical is effective on Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also works by creating a
barrier between the oxygen element and the fuel element on Class A fires.
Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is important to use the correct extinguisher for the
type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-ignite after apparently being extinguished
successfully.
Figure 230 Fire extinguishers and their applications (colour codes to BSEN3:1996)
Rescuing electric shock victim
When a person gets into contact with a live wire and gets an electric shock, the following steps should be
followed to save the victim:
1. Switch off the current if possible if not do not waste
2. Secure release from contact. Safeguard yourself when removing the casualty from the contact. Use
a dry insulator to remove the victim from electrical contact e.g. rubber, mat gloves, a length of dry
rope or a length of dry wood to pull or push the casualty away from the contact
3. Start respiratory resuscitation once the casualty is not breathing. Use the method known best.
Continue until casualty is breathing satisfactorily.
4. Send for a doctor and ambulance immediately.
Methods of resuscitation
I. Kiss of life
The procedure for this method of artificial respiration is as follows.
• Place a support below the neck and loosen the clothing.
• Clear all air passages.
• Pinch the nose and breathe into victim’s mouth until the chest rises.
• Release the nose and let the air rush out.
• Continue with this process until the victim breathes normally.
• Take the victim to hospital for further medical check-up.
6.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
1. What is the meaning of the term PPE
2. What are some of the five pieces of PPE which a trainee could be expected to wear at work and the
protection given by each piece?
3. What are some causes of accidents
4. What types of fire extinguishers do you know? And how or when are they applied?
5. Which two methods of artificial resuscitation do you know?
6.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
6.2.1.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-
explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-
reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
2. What are some of the five pieces of PPE which a trainee could be expected to wear at work and the
protection given by each piece?
• Safety helmet-Protects head from falling objects
• Goggles-Protects eyes from flying objects and excessive light
• Ear muffles-Protects ears from excessive sound.
• Dust coat/Overall- Protects personal clothing from dirt
• Hand gloves- Protects hands from injury.
• Safety boots- Protects feet from falling objects.
3. Causes of accidents
• Trips/fall
• Fatigue
• Stress
2. As-fitted drawings
When the installation is completed a set of drawings should be produced which indicate the final positions
of all the electrical equipment. As the building and electrical installation progresses, it is sometimes
necessary to modify the positions of equipment indicated on the layout drawing because, for example, the
position of a doorway has been changed. The layout drawings or site plans indicate the original intentions
for the position of equipment, while the ‘as-fitted’ drawing indicates the actual positions of equipment upon
completion of the contract.
3. Detail drawings and assembly drawings
These are additional drawings produced by the architect to clarify some point of detail. For example, a
drawing might be produced to give a fuller description of a suspended ceiling arrangement or the assembly
arrangements of the metalwork for the suspended ceiling.
4. Location drawings
Location drawings identify the place where something is located. It might be the position of the manhole
covers giving access to the drains. It might be the position of all water stop taps or the position of the
emergency lighting fittings. This type of information may be placed on a blank copy of the architect’s site
plan or on a supplementary drawing.
5. Distribution cable route plans
On large installations there may be more than one position for the electrical supplies. Distribution cables
may radiate from the site of the electrical mains intake position to other sub-mains positions. The site of
the sub-mains and the route taken by the distribution cables may be shown on a blank copy of the architect’s
site plan or on the electricians ‘as-fitted’ drawings.
6. Block diagrams
A block diagram is a very simple diagram in which the various items or pieces of equipment are
represented by a square or rectangular box. The purpose of the block diagram is to show how the
components of the circuit relate to each other and, therefore, the individual circuit connections are not
shown. Figure 11 shows the block diagram of a space heating control system.
7. Wiring diagrams
A wiring diagram or connection diagram shows the detailed connections between components or items of
equipment. They do not indicate how a piece of equipment or circuit works. The purpose of a wiring
diagram is to help someone with the actual wiring of the circuit. Figure 12 shows the wiring diagram for a
space heating control system.
Figure 238 Wiring diagram-space heating control system (Honeywell Y Plan)
8. Circuit diagrams
A circuit diagram shows most clearly how a circuit works. All the essential parts and connections are
represented by their graphical symbols. The purpose of a circuit diagram is to help our understanding of
the circuit. It will be laid out as clearly as possible, without regard to the physical layout of the actual
components and, therefore, it may not indicate the most convenient way to wire the circuit. Figure 13 shows
the circuit diagram of our same space heating.
Figure 239 Circuit diagram- space heating control system (Honeywell Y Plan)
9. Schematic diagrams
A schematic diagram is a diagram in outline of, for example, a motor starter circuit. It uses graphical
symbols to indicate the interrelationship of the electrical elements in a circuit. These help us to understand
the working operation of the circuit but are not helpful in showing us how to wire the components. An
electrical schematic diagram looks very like a circuit diagram. Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram.
Figure 240 Schematic diagram of a motor starter
Protractor Compass
The accuracy and appearance of a drawing depends on the quality of Pencil used to make drawing. The
grade of a Pencil lead is marked on the Pencil. HB denotes medium grade. Increase in hardness is
shown by value put in front of H such as 2H, 3H etc., Softer pencils are marked as 2B, 3B, and 4B etc.
A pencil marked 3B is softer than 2B and Pencil marked 4B is softer than 3B and so on. Beginning of a
drawing may be made with H or 2H. For lettering and dimensioning, H and HB Pencils are used.
These are used to fix the Drawing sheet on the Drawing board.
ISO standard determines the paper dimensions for the A paper series. The most common paper sizes are
A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5. The table below shows the dimension of the most common A series paper
sizes.
Α5 14.8 x 21 cm 0.03108 m2
Α4 21 x 29.7 cm 0.0612 m2
Α3 29.7 x 42 cm 0.125 m2
Α2 42 x 59.4 cm 0.25 m2
Α0 84.1 x 118.9 cm 1 m2
Notice that if we split an A1 paper into two equal parts we get two A2 papers. If we split an A2 paper into
two equal part we get two A3 papers. If we split an A3 paper into two equal part we get two A4 papers
and so on. This is shown visual in the Figure 16.
Lines
Lines are the continuous association of points. Lines are classified as follows:-
a) According to Thickness.
b) According to Shape.
c) According to Darkness.
Lines used in Engineering drawings:-
a) Outlines- Lines drawn to represent visible edges and surface boundaries. These are also called
principal lines.
b) Dashed lines- Interior or hidden edges and surfaces are shown by dashed lines. Also called dotted
lines. They are of medium thickness. They are short dashed lines of about 3-4mmwith 1mm
distance between them.
c) Centre lines- These lines indicate axes of cylindrical, conical or spherical objects and the centers
of circles. These are medium thick lines consisting of long and short dashes, long dashes of 6-
8mm and 1mmdistance between them.
d) Dimension lines- These are continuous thin lines terminated at the outer ends by pointed arrow-
heads.
e) Construction lines- These are thin lines drawn during the drawing to help in drawing complex
geometrical structures.
f) Hatching lines- These are thin lines drawn parallel to each other at about 3mm. These lines show
the presence of material while object is cut through.
g) Cutting plane lines- These lines show the location of the cutting plane. It is thin & long chain line
with two small dashes of about 3-4mm and a long dash of about 6-8mm width
h) Break lines- These lines show imaginary boundaries of the object or to skip up very long part of
the object of similar width
How to draw a title block
The title block of a drawing, usually located on the bottom or lower right hand corner, contains all the
information necessary to identify the drawing and to verify its validity. The drawing title and the drawing
number are used for identification and filing purposes.
The title block of a drawing is usually located on the bottom or lower right hand corner, contains all the
information necessary to identify the drawing and to verify its validity. All engineering drawings should
feature a title block. The Figure 17 shows an example of a title block. The title block should include:
• Title: -title of the drawing
• Name: -name of the person who produced the drawing
• Checked: -before manufacture, drawings are usually checked
• Version: -many drawings are amended, each revision must be noted
• Date: -the date the drawing was produced or last amended
• Notes: -any note relevant to the drawing
• Scale: -the scale of the drawing
• Company name: -name of the company
• Projection: -the projection system used to create the drawing.
Dimensioning of drawings
A dimensioned drawing should provide all the information necessary for a finished product or part to be
manufactured. An example dimension is shown below.
Dimensions are always drawn using continuous thin lines. Two projection lines indicate
where the dimension starts and finishes. Projection lines do not touch the object and are
drawn perpendicular to the element you are dimensioning.
All dimensions less than 1 should have a leading zero. i.e. .35 should be written as 0.35
Types of Dimensioning
I. Parallel Dimensioning
Parallel dimensioning consists of several dimensions originating from one projection line.
(a) Shows two common methods of dimensioning a circle. One method dimensions the circle between
two lines projected from two diametrically opposite points. The second method dimensions the circle
internally.
(b) Is used when the circle is too small for the dimension to be easily read if it was placed inside the
circle.
VI. Dimensioning Radii
All radial dimensions are proceeded by the capital R.
(a) Shows a radius dimensioned with the center of the radius located on the drawing.
(b) Shows how to dimension radii which do not need their centers locating.
VII. Tolerancing
It is not possible in practice to manufacture products to the exact figures displayed on an engineering
drawing. The accuracy depends largely on the manufacturing process. A tolerance value shows the
manufacturing department the maximum permissible variation from the dimension. Each dimension on a
drawing must include a tolerance value. This can appear either as: a general tolerance value applicable to
several dimensions i.e. note specifying that the General Tolerance +/-0.5 mm. or a tolerance specific to
that dimension
Orthographic Projections
Orthographic Projections are a collection of 2-D drawings that work together to give an accurate overall
representation of an object.
• Be organized and diligent when reading plans. Start in upper left corner and work way across page
so as not to miss any details.
• Read the plan cover sheet. This contains important project information like the project name,
architect, contact information, project information and the date. It might also include a drawing of
the finished product.
• There are often reference points that are used between professionals and sets of drawings. These
can come in many forms: room numbers, a grid system, structural references, etc.
• Review the plan index which provides a list of all plan sheets.
Start with the Site or Plot plan. This provides an overhead view of the property and details about the
boundaries and orientation of the building. There will also be a symbol legend will depict the symbols
used to indicate windows, doors, elevation, etc. Many symbols contain numbers within them which refer
to the section and the page number of the plans. Reviewing the symbol legend will help when looking at
the actual plans so that you recognize what the symbols are referring to. You may also want to review the
list of abbreviations, many of which are standard in the industry, but some may be specific to the
architect. This will also help later when you are reading design notes.
Once you move into reading the actual architectural sheets, it’s important to know that architectural plans
are labeled with an A (A 001 or A1-X, A2-X, etc.). The architectural plans are where you will see where
your office is, where the bathrooms are in relation to workstations, etc. They will also provide
measurements, elevations, locations of walls, windows, bathrooms, etc. Plans are broken up into many,
many parts so it’s make sure to look at the plan number (and North arrow) to help orient yourself. Always
read the notes on a page! Some design details are easier to communicate via text so notes are included on
the drawing or sometimes as additional pages.
There are many additional plans that supplement architectural plans: ceiling, roof framing, finish schedule
(paint colors for each wall, flooring type and color, ceiling height, type, and color), door/window
schedule, and many more. These plans contain important details, but we will cover those details in a
future blog post. For now, hopefully this will help the next time you’re trying to figure out how to read
architectural plans. The table shows some of the architectural symbols that are always used.
Use of Computer Aided design
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. CAD is used to design, develop and optimize products. While it
is very versatile, CAD is extensively used in the design of tools and equipment required in the
manufacturing process as well as in the construction domain. CAD enables design engineers to layout and
to develop their work on a computer screen, print and save it for future editing. CAD (Computer Aided
Design) is the use of computer software to design and document a product’s design process.
Computer-aided design (CAD) involves creating computer models defined by geometrical parameters.
These models typically appear on a computer monitor as a three-dimensional representation of a part or a
system of parts, which can be readily altered by changing relevant parameters. CAD systems enable
designers to view objects under a wide variety of representations and to test these objects by simulating
real-world conditions.
When it was introduced first, CAD was not exactly an economic proposition because the machines at
those times were very costly. The increasing computer power in the later part of the twentieth century,
with the arrival of minicomputer and subsequently the microprocessor, has allowed engineers to use CAD
files that are an accurate representation of the dimensions / properties of the object.
CAD is used to accomplish preliminary design and layouts, design details and calculations, creating 3-D
models, creating and releasing drawings, as well as interfacing with analysis, marketing, manufacturing,
and end-user personnel.
CAD facilitates the manufacturing process by transferring detailed information about a product in an
automated form that can be universally interpreted by trained personnel. It can be used to produce either
two-dimensional or three-dimensional diagrams. The use of CAD software tools allow the object to be
viewed from any angle, even from the inside looking out. One of the main advantages of a CAD drawing
is that the editing is a fast process as compared to manual method. Apart from detailed engineering of 2D
or 3D models, CAD is widely used from conceptual design and layout of products to definition of
manufacturing of components. CAD reduces design time by allowing precise simulation rather than build
and test physical prototypes. Integrating CAD with CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) streamlines
the product development even more.
CAD is currently widely used for industrial products, animated movies and other applications. A special
printer or plotter is usually required for printing professional design renderings. CAD programs use either
vector-based graphics or raster graphics that show how an object will look.
Today, the use of CAD has permeated almost all industries. From aerospace, electronics to
manufacturing, CAD is used in all industry verticals. Since CAD encourages creativity and speeds up
productivity, it is becoming more and more useful as an important tool for visualization before actually
implementing a manufacturing process. That is also one of the reasons CAD training is gaining more and
more importance.
6.2.2.4 Learning Activities
Project
nomenclatures in
accordance with British
standards[BS 3939]
3. Identify the drawing Drawing instruments and Demonstrate how to use various
tools equipment drawing instruments, identify
the paper sizes
2. Which tools are used by a draftsperson when carrying out a task in Technical drawing?
3. Which type of a pencil are used while carrying out drawing assignment?
4. Below is an electrical symbol. Name of the symbol?
5. Draw the symbol of the following electrical installation equipment and machines.
Name Symbol
i. Motor
ii. Transformer
v. Fluorescent lamp
6.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
6.2.2.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-
explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-
reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
V. Dimension line
2. Which tools are used by a draftsperson when carrying out a task in Technical drawing?
• T squares
• Protractor
• Emery board
3. Which type of a pencil are used while carrying out drawing assignment?
• HB
• 3H
• 2H
• 4H
vi. Motor
vii. Transformer
x. Fluorescent lamp
6.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Assemble tools, equipment and materials
6.2.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
In order to assemble tools, equipment and materials, the learner need check the tools, equipment
and materials for proper functionality, assemble and store them as per established procedure.
6.2.3.2 Performance Standards
6.2.3.2.1 Check tools, equipment and materials for proper specifications and functionality.
6.2.3.2.2 Assemble and store tools, equipment and materials as per the established procedure
6.2.3.3 Information Sheet
Accessory- Any device other than a lighting fitting, associated with the wiring and current-using
appliances of an installation, e.g. a switch, a fuse, a plug, a socket-outlet, a lamp holder or a ceiling rose.
Electrical equipment- means any apparatus, appliance, device, fitting, fixture or material used in
distribution, supply or utilization of electric power
Electrical installation tools, equipment and their use
These are tools used in driving or pounding out nails they are made of hard steel, wood, plastic or rubber.
The following are types of hammers; claw, mallet and Ball peen.
Hammers
Wire stripper
Side cutter
This is a tool used fine medium and big cables
Combination pliers
These are made of metal with insulated handles. They are used for cutting, twisted, bending, holding and
gripping wires and cables
This is used for cutting and holding wires. It made to reach tight space and or small opening where other
pliers cannot reach. It is also used in making terminal loops of copper wire
Star screw driver
It has a cross tip and is used to drive screws with cross slot heads.
It has a flat tip and is used to drive screws with straight slot heads.
Hacksaw
Fish/Draw tape
This tool is used to draw cables in the conduit
Measuring tools
To measure wire length and other items, the Technician finds considerable use of measuring tool
Soldering equipment
In installing electric wiring, joints made between wires should be soldered, unless you use solder less
connectors. Typical equipment available
Drilling equipment
Drilling equipment is needed to make holes in building structure passages of Conduit sand wire
72
Figure 249 some of the electrical equipment
Accessories
Lamp Holders.
These are designed for quick removal and replacement of the lamp, and yet they must hold the
lamp in firm metallic contact to prevent overheating.
There are other variations such as the three-slot B.C for the smaller discharge lamps. For
ordinary tungsten filament lamps of up to 150W, the lamp caps and thus the lamp holder are B.C,
for lamps up to 200 W the caps are E.S, and those above 200W use G.E.S.
In every case where a lamp is to be installed, the appropriate size and type of holder must be
fitted. Lamp holder may be either the insulated type of Bakelite or the brass type with porcelain
interior.
B.C lamp holder should have solid plungers separately sprung by rust-proof steel plunger springs
and in the insulated type a metal insert to reinforce the area around the bayonet sockets. An
efficient cord grip is also necessary when the lamp is to be suspended from flexible cord.
Figure 24 shows an insulated cord-grip lamp holder, the section shows clearly the flexible wire
securely fixed to the spring plunger, and also the method of gripping the flexible cord.
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Figure 250 Insulated cord-grip
The type shown in figure 25 below is an insulated holder suitable for mounting directly on the
ceiling.
Figure 26 shows a cord grip and the flexible wired to a brass lamp holder terminal.
Figure 252 cord grip and flexible wired to a brass lamp holder terminal
Figure 27, shows internally threaded to screw to conduit or to a metal lamp bracket or the like.
Figure 28 is of a batten holder which may be screwed direct to a batten or back board.
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Figure 254 Batten holder
A Goliath screw lamp-holder is shown exploded in figure 30. The outer contact is a screwed
metal cylinder, and the inner contact is a metal stud. I.E.E. Regulation states that where centre
contact bayonet or Edison-type screw lamp holders are connected to a source of supply having
an earthed.
Neutral conductor, the outer or screwed contact shall be connected to that conductor. Where such
lamp holders are used in circuits having neither pole connected with earth , or in any damp
situation, or in any situation in which they can readily be touched by a person in contact with or
standing on earthed metal , they shall be provided with a protective shield of insulating material
complying with B.S.98, or shall be so placed or guarded that neither the lamp cap nor the outer
or screwed contact of the lamp holder can be touched when the lamp cap is in contact with the
lamp holder screw.
Regulations require that, every B.C lamp holder in a damp situation, or in a situation where it can
be touched by a person in contact with or standing on earthed metal, shall be constructed of or be
shrouded in insulating material, or shall be earthed. Where a lamp holder is likely to attain a
working temperature of 1350 C the lamp holder must be of the special heat-resisting type.
Celling roses
The great majority of ceiling roses already installed contain either two or three connection plates,
each plate including a pillar terminal for the circuit wires, and a screw terminal with washer for
flexible wire connection.
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When wiring ceiling roses with terminal similar to those illustrated above, the flexible wire
should be bent under the washer in a clockwise direction, otherwise, it will tend to be squeezed
out when the screw is tightened. In some ceiling roses, pillar terminals are provided for both
circuit wires and flexible wire.
i. That a ceiling rose shall not be installed in any circuit operating at a voltage normally
exceeding low voltage.
ii. The shrouding of a live terminal in a ceiling rose.
iii. That not more than one flexible cord shall be attached to a ceiling rose unless the rose be
designed for multiple pendants.
iv. That a ceiling rose shall be provided with an earthing terminal for compliance with I.E.E
Regulation
Figure below shows a modern form of moulded ceiling rose which include the earth terminal
required by Regulation, and a shrouded terminal for looping- in the live wire as required.
Earth
Line
loop-in
Neutral
Switch
wire
The switches are for switching ON and OFF the lighting points. For direct current circuits, the
quick-make- and-break switch is most suitable. The quick break is to prevent the arc formed at
the instant of rupture from continuing and burning the contacts
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Alternating current can efficiently be interrupted by the opening of a very small gap between
silver contacts and most sub- circuit switches are now of this type. All switches should be
mechanically robust to withstand the constant operation, and the contacts should be heavy and
firm enough to carry the current without overheating.
These are required to enable portable apparatus to be connected to the final sub-circuits. The
socket –outlet is the fixed portion connected to the fixed wiring, and comprises two or three
contact tubes and terminals. The plug is the movable part connected to the apparatus by flexible
wire, and comprises two or three contact pins to fit into the contact tubes. Plugs and socket-
outlets are made to British Standard Specifications, the standard sizes being 2 A, 5A, and 30 A.
The plug pins are of phosphor- bronze or hard-drawn brass, solid or slotted down the length to
form a spring contact in the tubes. The terminals are of substantial construction to clamp the
flexible wire firmly. The plug cover, of hardwood or other tough incombustible material, is
provided with a clamp to prevent the flexible from pulling out of the plug when in use, this
clamp to be inside the cover. The socket-outlet base is of vitreous porcelain or tough insulating
material and the contact tubes which must be self- adjusting to the pins are of phosphor-bronze
or hard-drawn brass with sound terminals.
The exposed ends of the tubes are below the level of the base to prevent them from being
touched accidentally. Figure 36 shows a 3 pin plug with cover
Plugs and sockets may be either of the 2-pin type or of the 3-pin type. Figure 37.shows a 3-pin
socket –outlet for flush mounting. For direct current circuits the socket-outlet must be switch-
controlled, and this is commonly provided for by a combined switch and socket-outlet.
I.E.E. Regulation allows the use of 13-A fused plugs under certain conditions, figure 1.38 shows
a 3-pin fused plug made in accordance with B.S 1363.
The plug is suitable for use with alternating current only. The plug pins are clearly identified by
‘L’ for live ‘N’ for neutral and ‘E’ for earth... A 13 –A cartridge fuse fitted inside the plug.
I.E.E. Regulations require that every plug and socket- outlet shall comply with the following;
• It must not be possible for any one pin of a plug to be in live contact with the socket-outlet
whole any other pin is exposed.
• No plug should fit any live contact of a socket- outlet, other than that of the socket-outlet
for which it is designed
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• With exceptions, every plug and socket-outlet must be non-reversible, with provision for
earthing
• Every fuse plug is to be non-reversible , with no provision for a fuse in an earthed
conductor
Fuses.
A fuse element consists essentially of a piece of copper or tin-lead alloy wire which will melt
when carrying a predetermined current. This element with contact carrier, and base is called a
fuse. It is placed in series with the circuit or sub-circuit to be protected, and automatically breaks
the circuit when overloaded. In general, the regulations regarding fuses require that fuses shall be
accessible, and shall be fitted either on the front of a switch board or in a protecting case. In most
cases in installation work the fuses are fitted in a distribution board.
The current rating or normal current-carrying capacity of a fuse should not exceed the current
rating of the smallest conductor in the circuit protected by the fuse, account being taken of the
class of excess- current protection provided by the fuse, coarse or close. For electric motors, a
higher fuse rating is allowable. The fusing values of normal duty fuses vary from 160 to 200
percent of the carrying capacity.
Rewireable fuses.
In this type, fuse wire is placed in a removable fuse link. The fuse link may be of porcelain or
other suitable insulating materials, it is so constructed that there is no danger to the operator in
removing the fuse link. The fuse wire is connected between two terminals and passes through an
asbestos tube or is in intimate contact with a sheet of asbestos. The fuse link is push-fitted into
the fuse base to make the connection through suitable contacts. Although the material cost of
replacing a blown fuse wire in a Rewirable fuse is negligible, nevertheless this fuse had
disadvantages, the chief being the deterioration of the fuse wire over a period, and another the
possibility of renewal by the wrong size of fuse wire.
Cartridge fuses
The cartridge fuse consists of a sealed tube with metal end caps. The fuse wire passes through
the tube from cap to cap and is welded or soldered to the inside of the cap. There is sometimes a
blowout device in the side of the tube to indicate when the fuse is blown. When the fuse is blown
the whole cartridge must be replaced. Cartridge fuses only are used in fused plugs, such as the
common ring-circuit 13 –A plug.
The H.B.C fuse consists of a ceramic tube with metal end caps and fixing tags. The fuse is a
silver strip of special shape with a low melting point rivet in the center. The strip is entirely
surrounded by chemically purified silica. When an overload occurs breaking the fuse element,
the silica prevents the formation of an arc, thus preventing overheating of the fuse and its
surroundings.
78
Figure 261 HRC fuses
Distribution boards.
The distribution board is an assemblage of parts, including one or more fuses or circuit-breakers
arranged for the distribution of electrical energy to final sub–circuits or to other distribution
boards.
79
The boards are usually metal-cased in sheet steel, or hardwood- cased in oak, teak, or mahogany. The
doors may be solid or glazed, and the case if fitted with an earthing terminal. Figure 1.38 shows a 1-pole
and neutral, 6-way, distribution board with sheet steel body, fitted with Rewirable or H.B.C fuses. There
is one fuse bank only, on the live side. One end of each of the six fuses is rigidly connected to a busbar,
and the other end is arranged for connection to the circuit wire. The neutral wire of the circuit is
connected to the neutral bar.
The regulations require that the neutral conductors for the different sub- circuits shall be connected in the
same order as the live conductors to the fuses. Some distribution boards are designed to contain circuit –
breakers instead of fuses. These however are more expensive than the equivalent Rewirable or H.B.C
fuses.
These are being increasingly used to provide close excess - current protection in single phase, 250 V
circuits. The circuit- breaker is essentially a switch which may be:
The circuit-breaker replaces both switch and fuses in the various circuits in which it is used. It can be
obtained with plug-in contacts for insertion into a fuse base in a distribution board in place of a plug-in
fuse carrier.
The consumer’s main switch and fuses may be combined in one case. With this type of switch and fuse
gear, the switch cannot be operated when the case is open, nor can the case be opened while the switch is
closed.
In a single-phase installation whose current rating is not greater than 60A, the consumer’s main switch
and fuse may be combined with the distribution board as one combined unit. The unit comprises a 60A
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2-pole main switch and up to 12 single-pole circuit fuses ( 12 way consumer unit). The fuses vary in
size, e.g. 5A, 15 A and 30 A.
Obviously the maximum current to be taken from the unit at any one time must not exceed 60 A. either
cartridge or Rewirable fuses may be employed. In addition to the fuses a neutral bar and an earthing bar
are fitted. The whole is fitted in a suitable sheet steel case, or in a moulded case; figure 39 shows a
connection diagram for this unit.
Types of Conductors
The most common electrical conductors used are copper and aluminum. Copper conductors are formed
from a block of copper which is cold-drawn through a set of dies until the desired cross- sectional area is
obtained. Aluminium wire is also drawn from a solid block
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Characteristics of aluminium and copper as conductors
Aluminium Copper
Smaller weight for similar resistance and Can easily be drawn into wires
current-carrying capacity
Easy to joint
The determining factor in the use of one type of metal for conductors is usually that of cost. Aluminium
cables are used where weight is a factor like for overhead transmission.
Stranding of Conductors.
Stranding of conductors is done to make the completed cable more flexible. A set number of strands
are used in cables: 1, 3, 7, 19, 37, 61, 91, and 127. Each layer of strands is spiraled on to the cable
in opposite direction to the previous layer. This system increases the flexibility of the completed
82
cable and also minimizes the danger of 'bird caging', or the opening-up of the strands under a
bending or twisting force.
The size of a stranded conductor is determined by the number of strands and the diameter of
the individual strands. For example, a 7/0.85 mm cable consists of seven strands of wire, each
strand having a diameter of 0.85 mm.
𝜋𝐷 2 0.852
The cross-sectional area will be = 7 × = 3.142 × 7 × = 4.0 mm2
4 4
Cable
A cable is defined in the I.E.E. Regulations as: "A length of insulated single conductor (solid or
stranded), or of two or more such conductors, each provided with its own insulation, which are laid up
together. The insulated conductor or conductors may or may not be provided with an overall covering
for mechanical protection." A cable consists of two basic parts:
• Conductors
• insulators
Construction of Cables
This is also known as 'thermo-plastic' cable since the insulation is made from a synthetic resin which
softens when heated. The process of manufacture is as follows:
Multi-core Cable.
This is cable which is made up of two or more insulated conductors. Multi-core cable is sheathed in a
protective covering— for example, tough rubber for tough rubber-sheathed cables (t.r.s.) and p.v.c. for
plastic cables.
Uses an insulation somewhat similar to that of t.r.s. but capable of withstanding most weather conditions
and particularly direct sunlight.
These cables are used in conditions damaging to p.v.c. cables such as high temperature and oil. The
resistant qualities are developed by a vulcanizing (or curing) process which forms an elastomer capable of
withstanding tough conditions and still retaining its flexibility.
The table 5 shows the comparison between T.R.S cable and P.V.C cable
Affected by oil and water Largely unaffected by oil, water, and corrosive
chemicals
temperatures
The maximum operating temperature for both rubber and p.v.c. insulated cables is 45°C.
Flexible cable
The I.E.E. Regulations define a flexible cable as: "A cable consisting of one or more cores, each
containing a group of wires, the diameters of the wires and the construction of the cable being such as to
afford flexibility."
Flexible cord
A flexible cord is defined as: "A flexible cable in which the cross-sectional area of each conductor does
not exceed 4 mm2".
84
Twisted Twin Flex Cable
This is made up of a multi-strand tinned-copper conductor with silicon rubber insulation. Application:
lighting flex.
Copper
Silicon rubber
Circular Flex. The rubber-insulated cores are formed into a circular section with cotton worming and
contained in a cotton braiding.
Circular Flex, Rubber Sheathed This flex is also packed with jute or cotton to form a circular cross-
section but an outer sheath of rubber replaces the cotton braiding.
Vulcanized rubber
This flex is similar in construction to the above, but has the addition of a compounded braiding. Appli-
cation: connections to industrial lighting.
Vulcanized rubber
Voltage drop is an essential feature in the calculation of cable size. Low voltage at the consumer’s
equipment leads to the inefficient operation of lighting, power equipment, and heating appliances. The
maximum voltage drop allowed between the consumer’s terminals and any point in the installation is 2-
5 per cent of the voltage supplied by the Electricity Supply Authority, including motor circuits.
The I.E.E. tables state the voltage drop across a section of cable when maximum current is flowing
through it. If the current is halved, the voltage drop will also be halved. For example, a 4 mm2 twin-core
cable has a current rating of 24 A and a-voltage drop 10 mV per ampere per metre. If the current is halved
(to 12 A) the voltage drop will be halved to 5 mV per ampere per metre.
The I.E.E. Regulations contain comprehensive information regarding the current-carrying capacity of
cables under certain conditions.
86
The rating factor is also dependent on the type of excess current protection. If cables are bunched together,
their current-carrying capacity will decrease; a rating factor is therefore supplied for the bunching, or
grouping, of cables.
The current density of a conductor is the amount of current which the conductor can safely carry without
undue heating per unit cross-sectional area. For example, if a copper conductor has a current density of
300 A/cm2 a copper conductor of cross-sectional 0.5 cm2 will be capable of carrying one half of 300 A,
that is, 150 A.
To calculate the current-carrying capacity of a cable (given cross-sectional area (cm2) and current density
(A/cm2) :
Current-carrying capacity = current density x cross-sectional area
Example.
Calculate the current-carrying capacity of a 0.1 cm2 conductor if the current density of the conductor is
400 A/cm2.
Current-carrying capacity = 400A/cm2x0.1cm2 = 40 A
Fittings
Power is relevant to electricians because it says that reasonable provision shall be made to provide lighting
systems with energy-efficient lamps and sufficient controls so that electrical energy can be used efficiently.
The two methods of compliance with these Regulations for both internal and external lighting. It says:
• A reasonable number of internal lighting points should be wired that will only take energy-efficient
lamps such as fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent lamps, CFLs.
• External lighting fixed to the building, including lighting in porches but not lighting in garages or
carports, should provide reasonable provision for energy-efficient lamps such as fluorescent tubes
and CFLs.
These lamps should automatically extinguish in daylight and when not required at night, by being
controlled by Passive infra-red (PIR) detectors. The traditional light bulb, called a GLS (general lighting
service) lamp is hopelessly bad in energy efficiency terms, producing only 14 lumens of light output for
every electrical watt input. Fluorescent tubes and CFLs produce more than 40 lumens of light output for
every watt input.
88
Figure 270 Tungsten Halogen Dichronic Lamp
c) Discharge lamps
Discharge lamps do not produce light by means of an incandescent fi lament but by the excitation of a gas
or metallic vapour contained within a glass envelope. A voltage applied to two terminals or electrodes
sealed into the end of a glass tube containing a gas or metallic vapour will excite the contents and produce
light directly. Fluorescent tubes and CFLs operate on this principle.
d) Fluorescent tube
A fluorescent lamp is a linear arc tube, internally coated with a fluorescent powder, containing a low-
pressure mercury vapour discharge. The lamp construction is shown in Fig. 45 and the control circuit in
Fig 46.
Fluorescent luminaire is equipment which supports an electric lamp and distributes or filters the light
created by the lamp. It is essentially the ‘light fitting’. A lamp is a device for converting electrical energy
into light energy. There are many types of lamps. General lighting service (GLS) lamps and tungsten
halogen lamps use a very hot wire filament to create the light and so they also become very hot in use.
Fluorescent tubes operate on the ‘dis-charge’ principle; that is, the excitation of a gas within a glass tube.
They are cooler in operation and very efficient in converting electricity into light. They form the basic
principle of most energy efficient lamps. Fluorescent lamps are linear arc tubes, internally coated with a
fluorescent powder, containing a little low pressure mercury vapour and argon gas.Passing a current
through the electrodes of the tube produces a cloud of electrons that ionize the mercury vapour and the
argon in the tube, arc radiates much more UV than visible light: almost all the visible light from a
fluorescent tube comes from the phosphors Glass, internally coated with fluorescent phosphor, cut away
to reveal cathode-pin cap Tube filled with argon and mercury vapour Cathode coated with electron
emitting material and fitted with cathode shield producing invisible ultraviolet light and some blue light.
The fluorescent powder on the inside of the glass tube is very sensitive to ultraviolet rays and converts this
radiation into visible light. Fluorescent luminaires require a simple electrical circuit to initiate the
ionization of the gas in the tube and a device to control the current once the arc is struck and the lamp is
illuminated.
89
Figure 271 Fluorescent lamp construction
90
is left on for several hours each night. The electrical contractor, in discussion with a customer, must
balance the advantages and disadvantages of energy-efficient lamps compared to other sources of
illumination for each individual installation
Inventory management
If your business uses a lot of tools and equipment, keeping track of inventory will be no easy task. From
small tools like hammers to saws and big equipment like rollers/cement mixers, individual equipment
tracking becomes a huge concern for the organization. Deviations from the record can cause a delay in
project completion.
Tool data irregularity can cause Shutdowns, Turnarounds, and Outages (STO’s) where the cost of project
completion becomes 3-4 times the actual cost.
This may lead to inaccurate decision making, inefficient planning, and an inability to stick to the
contract. To complete the project on time, most stakeholders just reorder the equipment rather than
locating it, which further increases project costs.
The main reasons you cannot find your tools are:
1. Tools are not there and/or they have arrived in the wrong quantity: if the tools that are
supposed to be shipped haven’t reached the designated location or they are shipped to another,
you will have a missing tool report.
2. Tools have been moved: maybe the tool is still in the warehouse. But someone moved elsewhere
without anyone knowing or they have placed it in the wrong location after using it, so it will
classify as missing.
3. Theft/Misplacement: one of the most common reasons for missing tools is theft. Someone took
the tool to work and didn’t return it. Or after using it, they misplaced it.
91
4. The log is not recorded correctly: if the log sheet says that someone has issued the tool while
it’s actually still on the premises, it won’t be used if there is a requirement. Conversely, if
someone is using the tool but the log sheet says that the tool is available, people will look for it.
That will cause confusion, halt work, and waste precious time.
However, there are some tips and tricks you can implement to make sure you keep a good track of your
tools and equipment.
93
you most financially, either by physical issue (breaking too early) or logistical issue (too much
requirement?)
With that intelligence, you’ll be able to make smarter decisions.
Equipment usage accountability
Making individual workers accountable for the equipment they use is a sure-fire way to reduce thefts and
counting errors.
Here’s what you can do.
• Use technology: use a tool management system instead of a manual record and make sure your
employees know how to use it. That way they can self-check-in or check-out the required tools.
• Bring your employees up to speed about the tool tracking system you chose and explain how
everything functions. You can also put a tool handling and usage chart in the workplace for a
better understanding.
• Create a tool handling agreement to make sure your workers understand accountability
associated with issuing that tool. Tell them about established laws related to the theft of tools and
remind them of the consequences.
• Establish rewards and fines: for an exceptional tool handling, you can also issue rewards. This
will motivate people to handle the tools better. Fines can be given to those who don’t follow the
rules. Workers who “lose” tools frequently can pay for the equipment out of their paycheck, if
this will be your p.
Asset management system
Pen and paper tracking can work for small organizations; however, an asset management
system/inventory management system should be used to manage tools in a large organization. It reduces
inventory errors and increases safety for tools.
Along with the tagging system, you can formulate a real-time asset tracker for more precise information.
You might think, “I can manage my tools with a logbook and RFID tags. Why should I pay for software
to do that?”
Well, there are huge advantages to using a dedicated software solution for tool tracking. Pen and paper
solutions or spreadsheets are nowhere near good enough then the software method.
Here are some advantages of professional tool and asset management software over paper
tracking/spreadsheets:
So now that you know the benefits of a professional tracking solution—how do you choose a tracking
solution?
There are many available on the market. Most of them cater to different needs. We’ll explore the
features you need to be on the lookout for.
There are a few things you should consider before choosing a tool tracking solution.
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Cloud connectivity
6. Check and identify tools, Electrical tools and Name and draw the electrical
equipment and materials equipment tools and equipment
6.2.3.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the most commonly used types of conductors?
2. Which electrical accessories are use when carrying out electrical installations
3. Cables consists of three major parts. Name the parts
4. Below are tools and equipment used when preparing steel conduit for installation. What is the function
of each?
95
6.2.3.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
96
6.2.3.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
97
safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.
Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
• Lamp holders
• Conduits
• Ceiling roses
• Patress
3. Cables consists of three major parts. Name the parts
• Conductor
• Insulator
• Mechanical protection or sheath
98
4. Below are tools and equipment used when preparing steel conduit for installation. What is the function
of each?
b. Stock and die; threading
c. Hacksaw; cutting
99
Because of the complexity and hazards involved in the installation of cables in the many types of building
and their surroundings, there are quite a number of different types of cables and wiring systems in use.
Each is designed to meet and withstand the elements it will encounter and at the same time fit with the
overall building construction in terms of convenience and appearance.
It is the responsibility of the contractor, designer or sometimes electrician, himself to study carefully the
building specification and decide upon the type of cables and wiring systems most suitable.
Wiring system
A wiring system consist of conductors, insulators, means of mechanical protection and all accessories
associated with installation.
Factors affecting choice of wiring system
1. Type of building construction – is it permanent or temporary structure, hospital, workshop, office
or dwelling house will help to decide the routing, fixing and terminations
2. Flexibility of the system –change of location of equipment such as machine shops and temporary
buildings i.e. must be flexible to needs of future alterations and modifications.
3. Installation conditions/special adverse conditions – protection against mechanical damage
requirements and working heights. Also, conditions that are harmful to the wellbeing of a wiring
system must be considered e.g. presence of flammable vapours risk of mechanical damage and
presence of corrosive environment such as dampness.
4. Appearance of finished installation (aesthetics) – can be run on surface or concealed e.g.
exposed conduit system cannot be used in an executive office.
5. Durability – life of the installation
6. Economics/ Cost – Cost of installation and money available. The cost of the wiring system must
be compared to get the relative cheap system without compromising on the safety of the wiring.
7. Type of load to be supplied –should be made to the level of voltage expected in the circuit e.g.
low voltage, medium voltage or extra high voltage.
Terminating and Jointing P.V.C. Cables
Stripping P.V.C. Cables.
A single-core p.v.c. cable should be stripped by holding the cutting knife at an angle to the cable and
cutting away from the hand holding the cable. Multi-core cable is stripped by running the cutting knife
along the centre of the cable and then nicking the end of the cable to give two finger grips. This allows
the sheathing to be pulled down the cable with the thumb and forefinger of each hand. The sheath is then
folded on top of the cable and cut by drawing the knife between the sheathing and the cable.
100
Knife
Cable
101
joints. Plumber's metal is used for 'plumbing' joints in armoured cables, as it remains in a plastic state,
allowing it to be shaped, longer than fine solder.
Methods of Soldering.
There are three methods used for soldering conductors:
(a) soldering bit,
(b) 'stick' method
(c) (metal) pot and ladle method.
Soldering Bit. The conductors to be jointed are first smeared with a resinous flux. The tinned bit is then
applied under the joint until the heat penetrates it. The stick of solder is then applied to the joint until
the solder flows freely through it.
‘Stick’ Method. In this method, the joint is first heated with a blowlamp, flux being applied. The solder
is then applied by pressing the stick of solder against the heated joint until it penetrates the joint. Care
should be taken to protect the insulation against the blowlamp flame.
Pot and Ladle Method. This method is commonly used by jointers when jointing heavy conductors. A
solder pot is heated until the solder is running freely. The solder should not be overheated as this will
burn the tin and a dross will form on the surface of the solder. When the solder has reached working
temperature it is taken from the pot with a ladle. The solder is then poured over the prepared joint and
is caught by another ladle placed under the joint. This action is repeated until the solder penetrates the
joint.
Soldering Aluminium.
The following special points should be noted when soldering aluminium:
▪ All surfaces must be scrupulously clean.
▪ When making a joint between stranded conductors ' step' the strands to increase the surface
area.
▪ The surface must be heated before the flux is applied as the flux will only take when the
temperature is high enough.
▪ Apply aluminum solder until the complete surface is bright.
▪ Joints in aluminum should be protected from contact with the atmosphere. This can be done by
painting, taping, or compounding.
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4. Fit the socket to the conductor. The socket should be a hammer fit.
If the socket is too large, the conductor can be enlarge with a tinned- wire binding or. Better still, by
pressing a strand of cable into the centres of the conductor.
5 Play the blowlamp in the top of the socket until the heat has penetrated the conductor, and then
apply a stick of solder to the lip of the socket. The completed connection should have a rim of
solder showing round the lip the socket; this can be done by applying plumber’s metal as the
joint is cooling
6 When the termination is cooled, cut back damaged insulation and apply p.v.c or cambric tape
7 Tape is used to replace insulation which has been removed prior to jointing
Do not attempt to cool a soldered joint by pouring water over it. This can lead to an effect
joint known as a dry joint. Never smooth the joint with a file but use a dry cloth before it sets.
Tape
Cable
Soldered socket
Weak-backed ferrite
Armour
bond
104
1. Place binder 1m from end of cable
2. Remove serving to this point
3. Bend steel wire armouring back until it is clear to lead sheath
4. Remove about 13cm of lead sheath and clean the remainder
5. Place brass gland on cable, leaving approximately 10cm of lead sheath showing. Wedge gland
with wood to keep it central on cable
6. Use plumber’s metal to plumb the joint
7. Clean galvanized wire paraffin rag and shape the wire over the plumb
8. Clamp wires on the gland and bolt the gland on sealing chamber
9. Cut back paper insulation on conductors and make through-joint to V.R.I conductors, using
weak-back ferrule
10. Assemble sealing chamber and pour in hot bitumen to seal oil-impregnated paper against
moisture
P.V.C. Armoured Cable
This is made up of p.v.c insulated cores packed with p.v.c. to give a circular cross section. An
outer p.v.c. sheath covers the galvanized steel wire.
105
Mineral Insulated Metal Sheathed (M.I.M.S.) Cable
This cable consists of three parts. These are:
Copper or aluminium conductors
Each core consists of a single copper conductor. Common core numbers are 1,2,3,4and 7
Insulation
The insulation between the cores is magnesium oxide. It can withstand high temperatures but is
absorbent to moisture
Outer sheath
Is a seamless copper or aluminium tube
Advantages and disadvantages OF M.I.M.S. CABLE (table 6)
Table 18 advantages and disadvantages of M.I.M.S
Advantages Disadvantages
Heat resistant. Can withstand temperatures up Expensive
to 2500C
The sheath provides an excellent earth Termination takes time
continuity conductor
Is mechanically strong must be protected Has greater voltage drop per metre at the
against shape edges same current rating
High current density
Does not deteriorate with age
Cable Termination
• Termination is the entry of a cable end into an accessory. In case of a stranded conductor, the
strands should be twisted tightly together before termination. Great care must be taken not to
damage the wires. The I.E.E. Regulation requires that a cable termination of any kind shall securely
anchor all the wires of the conductor and shall not impose any mechanical stress on the terminal or
socket. If a soldering socket is used, then it must contain all the strands of the conductor.
• A termination under mechanical stress is liable to disconnection. When current is flowing in a
cable, certain amount of heat is developed, and the consequent expansion and contraction may
force the cable out of the terminal or socket.
• If one or more strands of the cable were to be left out of the terminal or socket, there would be a
reduction in the effective cross-sectional area of the conductor at the point. When terminating
rubber insulated cable, the technician should avoid exposing the rubber insulation and conductors
to the atmosphere. In conditions of heat or moisture, the terminations should be sealed.
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• Mineral insulated copper sheathed cables are terminated in sealed glands. A common arrangement
is the screw-on pot-type seal, in which a small metal pot is screwed on to the copper sheath. Cold
plastic compound is then pressed into the pot and a fibre cap and insulating sleeves and threaded
over conductors and crimped into position.
• If an insulation test indicates that moisture has entered the mineral insulation, the gland must be
undone, the moisture driven out using a blowlamp and the seal re-made.
Types of terminal.
The most commonly used methods of securing conductors in accessories are:
Pillar terminals,
A pillar terminal has a hole through its side into which the conductor in inserted and then secured by a
set screw. If the conductor is small in relation to the hole, it should be doubled back. When two or
more conductors are to go into the same terminal, they should first be tightly twisted together. In the
case of flexible cord terminations, the strands must be twisted up (and then bent back if room permits)
before being entered into the terminal.
• screw head, and
• Nuts and washers.
When fastening conductors under screw heads or nuts, it is best to form the conductor end into an eye
by means of the round-nosed pliers. The eye should be slightly larger than the screw shank, but smaller
than the outside diameter of the screw head, nuts or washers. The eye should be placed in such a way
that rotation of the screw head or nut tends to close the joint in the eye. If the eye is put the opposite
way round, the motion of the screw or nut will tend to untwist the eye, and will probably result in
imperfect contact.
The importance of good contact cannot be over-stressed. Poor contact introduces resistances at the
termination and leads to over-heating eventually leading to fire.
Solder less lug connections are now being used to some extent in the electrical contracting industry,
particularly for terminating small sized cables. Lugs of this type are made from solid copper and are
tinned. They are fastened to cable ends by crimping. Hand crimping tools usually accommodate
several cable sizes in a fixed head.
For the larger sized lugs, there are hydraulic crimping machines with capacities of several tonnes
Termination Tools
• The following tools are required while terminating an electrical cable
• A sharp knife,
• A pair of side-cutters and
• A soldering iron.
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• The knife should be sharpened periodically. The cutting edge of pliers and side-cutters should not
be used for purposes other than that for which they are intended. The bit of the soldering iron
should be kept clean.
• For compliance with the I.E.E. Regulations, joints in cables must be;
• Made by soldering or by mechanical clamps
• Mechanically and electrically sound
• Provided with insulation not less effective than that of the cable cores,
• Protected against moisture and mechanical damage
• Accessible for inspection (except in the case of buried cables)
Soldering
• The type of solder to be used for twist-joints is called’ tin man’s solder.’ It is a soft solder
consisting of 60 parts tin to 40 parts leads, with a melting point of 2000C (about one-fifth of the
melting point of copper). To make the solder flow readily over a surface, a flux is required. The
function performed by the flux is largely that of cleaning the surface and of reducing any oxide to
the metallic state.
• For electrical work, pure amber resin is the safest flux to use, because it does not cause any
corrosion of the metal. Soldering fluxes containing acid or other corrosive substances, such as zinc
chloride solution (killed spirits) must not be used for this work
The Soldering iron
• When the soldering iron is heated, the surface should be cleaned, a small quantity of resin is
applied and then the stick of solder lightly touched. The surface should then have a bright silvery
appearance. Powdered resin is applied to the joint which is then laid in a shallow pool of solder.
After a short period, the solder will run up into the strands, at which point joint can be removed
from the iron and allowed to cool. Sometimes, soldering bits are grooved so that the portion of
joint to be soldered can be placed in the groove, thus giving a larger area of surface contact
between the two.
• A well-soldered joint should present a smooth, bright appearance. It is important to remember that
wiping the join before it cools destroys this appearance and is liable to roughen the surface and
become detrimental to the insulation.
• To avoid damaging the cable insulation near the joint the soldering process should be carried out as
quickly as possible. The tendency to burn the insulation is less with a really hot soldering iron than
with a cooler one which takes longer to do the job. It is sometimes possible to roll back some of the
insulation before soldering and to unroll it afterwards.
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• The metal pot and ladle. An iron metal pot about three quarters full of solder, together with the
ladle, is heated until the solder is fluid. Any impurities can then be skimmed off the surface. The
joint is held over the pot and sprinkled with resin a small amount being allowed to fall into the
solder. The ladle should be filled with solder and this should be poured heavily over the joint so
as to raise its temperature as rapidly as possible, thereby avoiding damage to the insulation.
Pouring is repeated, adding resin as necessary, until the required coating is achieved; at the same
time any points that may form are carefully brushed off.
• In the case of a termination, both the lug and the cable end must be heated and ‘tinned’ before
any attempt is made to insert cable end in position.
• The blowlamp. Before starting to solder, see that the blow lamp is about two- thirds full of
paraffin. For pouring, it is best to fit a funnel in the filler cap. A piece of cotton waste s then
placed in the annular trough, soaked in methylated spirit, and ignited. It is possible to use
paraffin for this purpose, but methylated spirit gives a cleaner flame and starts the lamp quicker.
By operating the pump, the pressure inside the reservoir can be increased. This pump reaches
nearly to the bottom of the reservoir and is provided with a non- return valve. AS the pressure
increases, paraffin will be forced up the tube and becomes vaporized by the heat from the
burning waste. Vapour, so formed, will then issue from the orifice (or jet) at high velocity and
after mixing with air drawn in through holes at the side of the chamber, will burn at the nozzle.
• To enable the blowlamp to work continuously after it has once started, the tube conveying
paraffin from the reservoir to the jet is led near the flame, so that the paraffin is vaporized by the
heat of the lamp itself. The pressure inside the reservoir is also maintained by the heat of the
lamp. As this pressure is high, the base of the lamp is curved inward to give additional strength.
• To stop the blowlamp working, the valve is opened. The flow of paraffin then stops due to the
reduction in pressure. When using the blowlamp to solder a joint, the flame should be directed
into the middle of the joint. As the conductor attains the melting temperature of solder, resin and
solder, are rubbed into it alternately until it becomes saturated with solder.
• Because of the risk of causing damage, it is advisable to wrap the ends of the insulation with
dampened cloth tape before soldering joints with the aid of a blowlamp. Before sweating a cable
socket using a blowlamp the interior of the socket must be cleaned. The inside if then tinned by
heating and introducing solder and resin. After almost filing the socket with molten solder, the
cable end, rubbed with resin, is pushed into it. The solder should run up into the strands of the
cable, and should be evenly dispersed round the conductor. The blowlamp jet should always be
kept clear by using the pricker as necessary. It is bad practice to operate the pump to clean the
jet, if the flame has gone out.
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• Blowpipes utilizing propane or butane gases are gradually superseding paraffin blowlamps.
Special soldering techniques are used for alluminium.
EXERCISE 1
Stripping and preparing 1/1.13mm cable end for entry into an accessory
Correct angle of knife blade Braid and tape removed Conductor bent over
Procedure;
• Remove braid, tape and rubber from the end 25mm of cable
• Remove braid and tape (if any) for a further 15mm
• Bend exposed conductor in two.
• Make a drawing of the cable and its full size, giving actual dimension
EXERCISE 2
Producer:
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 75mm.
• Strip off braid and tape for a further 15mm on each piece
• Bend the end 6mm of each conductor at right angles
• Clamp the two conductors together so that the ends project outwards.
• Tightly bind both conductors with a tinned copper wire, carrying the binding about 6mm past each
end.
• Solder the whole length of the binding.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 3
A Bellhangers’ joint between two pieces of 1/1.13mm cable.
Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 90mm.
110
• Strip off braid and tape (if any) for a further 15mm on each piece.
• Cross the conductors at about 25mm from the insulation, keeping the left-hand conductor in front.
• With the pliers grip the crossed conductors together just to the left of the point of crossing.
• Bend the two conductors at right-angles to the crossing.
• Twist the left-hand conductor tightly round the right-hand one for six turns.
• Twist the right-hand conductor tightly round the left-hand one for six turns.
• Cut off surplus conductors on the bevel with side-cutters and smooth over with pliers.
• Solder the whole length of the joint.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 4
A Telegraph joint between two pieces of 1/1.38 mm cable
Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 100mm
• Strip off braid and tape (if any) for a further 25mm on each piece.
• Cross the conductors at about 30mm from the insulation, keeping the left-hand conductor in front.
• With the pliers grip the crossed conductors together just to the left of the point of crossing
• Twist the left-hand end and the right-hand main portion tightly together equally round a common
axis at a high pitch (that is, not too sharply) for six turns.
• In a similar way twist the right-hand end and the left-hand main portion tightly together equally
round a common axis for six turns.
• Cut off surplus conductors on the level with side-cutters and smooth over with pliers.
EXERCISE 5
A T-JOINT BETWEEN TWO PIECES OF 1/1.38MM CABLE
Procedure
• Strip and clean the through piece for a distance of 37 mm in the center.
111
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for 15mm at each side.
• Strip and clean one end of the t-piece for 100mm
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Place t-piece at right angles to left-hand side of bared through piece and tightly bind t-piece round
through piece.
• Cut off surplus conductor on the level and smooth over with pliers.
• Soldier the right-hand half of the binding.
• I.E.E. regulation to be studied:
• Number b6 and b19
• Question to be answered:
• What should be the minimum voltage rating of every cable in accordance with the appropriate
British standard
• What is meant by the expression of the voltage rating of cable as: (a) 600/1000, (b) 600?
• To what type of installation is twist-joining of smaller sized conductors mainly confined?
• State the I.E.E. requirements for the insulation of cables for fixed wiring.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size, giving actual dimensions.
EXERICE 6
USING A MICROMETER TO MEASURE CONDUCTOR DIAMETERS
Procedure:
• Place the wire with its diameter between the anvil of the micrometer and the spindle head.
• Turn the ratchet stud until the ratchet slips to close the head on the wire.
• Note the barrel reading to the nearest 0.5 millimeter under.
• Note the number of thimble divisions and multiply by 0.01
• Obtain the complete measurement by adding the results of operations 3 and 4.
• Repeat operation 1 to 5 for each sample of wire.
• Make a drawing of a micrometer thimble and barrel twice full size to illustrate a reading of
3.18mm
EXERCISE 7
Connecting a flexible pendant
Procedure:
• Strip the ends of the cable cores and connect the conductors in the appropriate terminals of the
ceiling rose.
112
• Strip both ends of the flexible cord, unscrew the lamp-holder cap, and connect the conductors at
one end to the lampholder terminals.
• Thread the flexible cord through the lampholder cap and screw on the cap.
• Unscrew the ceiling rose cover, thread the flexible cord through it, connect the flexible cord
conductors to the appropriate terminals of the ceiling rose, and then screw on the cover.
• Make a sectional drawing of the flexible pendant about twice full size (omitting most of the
flexible cord), showing connections
EXERCISE 8
A T-JOINT BETWEEN TWO PICES OF 7/0.85 MM CABLE.
• Procedure
• Strip and clean the through piece for a distance of 37mm in the centre.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for 15mm at each side.
• Strip and clean one end of the t-piece for 230mm.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Twist strands of through piece and first 6mm of t-piece
• Untwist remainders of t-piece strands and straighten.
• Placing t-piece at right angles to centre of through piece, tightly bind t-piece strands round through
piece against the lay of the cable one at a time; four strands round left-hand half of through piece ,
and three strands round right hand half.
• Cut off surplus strands on the level and smooth over with pliers.
• Soldier joint ends.
• Make a dewing of the joint twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 9
A married joint between two pieces of 7/0.85mm cable.
113
• Procedure:
• Strip and clean one end of each piece for 230mm.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm on each piece.
• Twist strands of each piece for 37 mm from the insulation
• Untwist remainder of strands and straighten
• Cut out centre strands of each conductor.
• Intersperse the strands and butt the twisted portions together.
• Lightly bind the strands on the left-hand side round twisted strands
• Tightly bind the strands on the right-hand side the tightly bind them round twisted strands in the
same direction as the left-hand strands.
• Cut off surplus strands on the level and smooth over wit pliers.
• Soldier joint at ends.
• Make a drawing of the joint twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 10
Soldering a 30 ampere cable socket on piece of 7/1.04mm cable, using a blowlamp
Procedure
• Strip and clean one end of cable for about 25mm
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm
• Twist strands of conductor to tighten
• Cut conductor to length just sufficient to much bottom of cable socket.
• Roll up rubber insulation for about 15mm.
• Clean inside of cable socket and edge and introduce small quantity of resin and solder. Apply resin
to conductor
• Gripping socket firmly in gas pliers hold it in blowlamp flame until soldier is molted.
• Push conductor down into molten solder and hold for a short time taking care not to allow flame
too near to cable insulation. Apply further resin as necessary until solder runs up into the strands of
conductor.
• Remove termination from blowlamp flame, and allow to coll.
• Unroll rubber insulation back into place.
• Apply cord whipping tightly over the edge of braids and tape starting with a loop through which
the end can be threaded and pulled.
114
• Make a drawing of the cable socket termination twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 11
Making off a 7-strands cable at a straining point.
Procedure:
• Strip and clean a piece of 7/1.04m cable for about 180mm at one end.
• Bend all 7 strands tightly round a cylindrical object of suitable diameter (eg 20mm conduits) so as
to form a loop.
• Unwind one strands up to the end of the loop then tightly bind round the 13 strands for 6mm
• Unwind each of the other strands in turn up to the binding and bind round the remaining strands for
6mm.
• Cut off the surplus portion of each binding strands at a level
• Tightly press the ends of the strands into the binding so that the finish of one strands butts on to the
start of the next then smooth over with pliers.
• Solder the whole of the binding using the blowlamp.
• Make a drawing of the made off cable end twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
EXERCISE 12
• Soldering a cable socket on a piece of cable, using a metal pot and a ladle.
• Procedure:
• Strip and clean one end of cable for about 37mm.
• Strip off braids and tape (if any) for a further 15mm.
• Twist strands of conductor to tighten.
• Cut conductor to length just sufficient to touch bottom of cable socket.
• Apply protective tape or string for about 20 mm.
• Clean inside of cable socket and edge and introduce small quantity of resign and solder. Apply
resin to conductor.
• Gripping socket firmly in gas pliers, hold it over metal containing molten solder and pour solder
from ladle heavily into the socket.
• Tin the conductor by inserting in the socket, applying resin as necessary until solder runs up into
the strands of conductor when in position.
115
• Hold termination firmly in position and allow to cool.
• Remove protective tape or string
• Make a drawing of the cable socket termination twice its full size, giving actual dimension.
EXERCISE 15
Terminating a mineral-insulted copper-sheathed cable by means of a screw on pot type seal
Sleeve
Pot Disc
Gland
Procedure:
• Mark the cable sheath at its terminating position the make a circumferential cut with the ringing
tool.
• Start a helical tear in the sheath with either side-cutters or fork-ended stripper and continue in a
series of tears holding the tool at about 45 to the cable. Finish with the cutters in line with the cable
so as to run out the tear along the cut.
• Remove any burrs in the terminating edge of the sheath, trim back the insulating level with the
edge and clean insulation from conductors.
• Pass the pot, internally-threaded are first over the conductors until the thread engages the sheath.
Screw on the pot squarely until sheath is level with shoulder of pot.
• Remove any dirt and metal from pot, press in a small quantity of plastic compound then add and
compress further compound until pot is filled.
• Select sleeves to suit the conductors pass the through the holes in the sealing cap after anchoring
with wedges and thread the assembly over the conductors.
• Use the special tool provided to compress compound and to Crip the rim of the sealing pot. Wipe
off surplus compound.
• Test for insulation resistance.
• Make a drawing of a cable termination twice its full size giving actual dimensions.
Conduit installations
A conduit is a tube, channel or pipe in which insulated conductors are contained. The conduit, in
effect, replaces the PVC outer sheath of a cable, providing mechanical protection for the insulated
conductors. A conduit installation can be rewired easily or altered at any time, and this flexibility,
coupled with mechanical protection, makes conduit installations popular for commercial and industrial
applications. There are three types of conduit used in electrical installation work: steel, PVC and
flexible.
i. Steel conduit
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Steel conduits are made to a specification and are either heavy gauge welded or solid drawn. Heavy
gauge is made from a sheet of steel welded along the seam to form a tube and is used for most
electrical installation work. Solid drawn conduit is a seamless tube which is much more expensive and
only used for special gas-tight, explosion-proof for flameproof installations. Conduit is supplied in
3.75 m lengths and typical sizes are 16, 20, 25 and
32 mm. Conduit tubing and fittings are supplied in a black enamel finish for internal use or hot
galvanized finish for use on external or damp installations.
A wide range of fittings is available and the conduit is fixed using saddles or pipe hooks, as shown in
Fig. 48.
117
The spring is pushed into the conduit to the point of the intended bend and the conduit then bent over the
knee. The spring ensures that the conduit keeps its circular shape. In cold weather, a little warmth
applied to the point of the intended bend often helps to achieve a more successful bend.
The advantages of a PVC conduit system are that it may be installed much more quickly than steel
conduit and is non-corrosive, but it does not have the mechanical strength of steel conduit. Since PVC
conduit is an insulator it cannot be used as the CPC and a separate earth conductor must be run to every
outlet. It is not suitable for installations subjected to temperatures below 25°C or above 60°C. Where
luminaires are suspended from PVC conduit boxes, precautions must be taken to ensure that the lamp
does not raise the box temperature or that the mass of the luminaire supported by each box does not
exceed the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. PVC conduit also expands much more than
metal conduit and so long runs require an expansion coupling to allow for conduit movement and help to
prevent distortion during temperature changes.
The advantages of a PVC conduit system are that it may be installed much more quickly than steel
conduit and is non-corrosive, but it does not have the mechanical strength of steel conduit. Since PVC
conduit is an insulator it cannot be used as the CPC and a separate earth conductor must be run to every
outlet. It is not suitable for installations subjected to temperatures below 25°C or above 60°C. Where
luminaires are suspended from PVC conduit boxes, precautions must be taken to ensure that the lamp
does not raise the box temperature or that the mass of the luminaire supported by each box does not
exceed the maximum recommended by the manufacturer. PVC conduit also expands much more than
metal conduit and so long runs require an expansion coupling to allow for conduit movement and help to
prevent distortion during temperature changes.
All conduit installations must be erected first before any wiring is installed. The radius of all bends in
conduit must not cause the cables to suffer damage, and therefore the minimum radius of bends given.
All conduits should terminate in a box or fitting and meet the boxes or fittings at right angles. Any
unused conduit-box entries should be blanked off and all boxes covered with a box lid, fitting or
accessory to provide complete enclosure of the conduit system. Conduit runs should be separate from
other services, unless intentionally bonded, to prevent arcing occurring from a faulty circuit within the
conduit, which might cause the pipe of another service to become punctured.
When drawing cables into conduit they must first be run off the cable drum. That is, the drum must be
rotated as shown in Fig. 49 and not allowed to spiral off, which will cause the cable to twist.
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Figure 280 Cable drum
iii. Flexible conduit
Flexible conduit is made of interlinked metal spirals often covered with a PVC sleeving. The tubing
must not be relied upon to provide a continuous earth path and, consequently, a separate CPC must be
run either inside or outside the flexible tube. Flexible conduit is made of interlinked metal spirals often
covered with a PVC sleeving.
Flexible conduit is used for the final connection to motors so that the vibrations of the motor are not
transmitted throughout the electrical installation and to allow for modifications to be made to the final
motor.
Conduit capacities
Single-PVC insulated conductors are usually drawn into the installed conduit to complete the
installation. Having decided upon the type, size and number of cables required for a final circuit, it is
then necessary to select the appropriate size of conduit to accommodate those cables.
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Table 19 conduit factors adapted from IEE regulations
Trunking installations
A trunking is an enclosure provided for the protection of cables which is normally square or rectangular
in cross-section, having one removable side. Trunking may be thought of as a more accessible conduit
system and for industrial and commercial installations it is replacing the larger conduit sizes. A trunking
system can have great flexibility when used in conjunction with conduit; the trunking forms the
background or framework for the installation, with conduits running from the trunking to the point
controlling the current-using apparatus. When an alteration or extension is required it is easy to drill a
hole in the side of the trunking and run a conduit to the new point. The new wiring can then be drawn
through the new conduit and the existing trunking to the supply point.
Trunking is supplied in 3 m lengths and various cross-sections measured in millimetres from 50 _ 50 up
to 300 _ 150. Most trunking is available in either steel or plastic.
i. Metallic trunking
Metallic trunking is formed from mild steel sheet, coated with grey or silver enamel paint for internal use
or a hot-dipped galvanized coating where damp conditions might be encountered and made to a
specification. A wide range of accessories is available, such as 45° bends, 90° bends, tee and four-way
junctions, for speedy on-site assembly. Alternatively, bends may be fabricated in lengths of trunking, as
shown in Fig. 55 This may be necessary or more convenient if a bend or set is non-standard, but it does
take more time to fabricate bends than merely to bolt on standard accessories.
120
Figure 281 Alternative trunking bends
When fabricating bends the trunking should be supported with wooden blocks for sawing and fi ling, in
order to prevent the sheet-steel vibrating or becoming deformed. Fish plates must be made and riveted or
bolted to the trunking to form a solid and secure bend. When manufactured bends are used, the continuity
of the earth path must be ensured across the joint by making all fixing screw connections very tight, or
fitting a separate copper strap between the trunking and the standard bend. If an earth continuity test on
the trunking is found to be unsatisfactory, an insulated CPC must be installed inside the trunking. The size
of the protective conductor will be determined by the largest cable contained in the trunking, if the circuit
conductors are less than 16 mm 2, then a 16 mm 2 CPC will be required.
Non-metallic trunking
Trunking and trunking accessories are also available in high-impact PVC. The accessories are usually
secured to the lengths of trunking with a PVC solvent adhesive. PVC trunking, like PVC conduit, is easy
to install and is non-corrosive. A separate CPC will need to be installed and non-metallic trunking may
require more frequent fixings because it is less rigid than metallic trunking. All trunking fixings should
use round-headed screws to prevent damage to cables since the thin sheet construction makes it
impossible to countersink screw heads.
Mini-trunking
Mini-trunking is very small PVC trunking, ideal for surface wiring in domestic and commercial
installations such as offices. The trunking has a cross-section of 16 _ 16 mm, 25 _ 16 mm, 38 _ 16 mm
or 38 _ 25 mm and is ideal for switch drops or for housing auxiliary circuits such as telephone or audio
121
equipment wiring. The modern square look in switches and sockets is complemented by the mini-
trunking which is very easy to install (see Fig. 46).
Skirting trunking
Skirting trunking is a trunking manufactured from PVC or steel and in the shape of a skirting board is
frequently used in commercial buildings such as hospitals, laboratories and offices. The trunking is fitted
around the walls of a room at either the skirting board level or at the working surface level and contains
the wiring for socket outlets and telephone points which are mounted on the lid, as shown in Fig. 56.
Where any trunking passes through walls, partitions, ceilings or floors, short lengths of lid should be fitted
so that the remainder of the lid may be removed later without difficulty. Any damage to the structure of
the buildings must be made good with mortar, plaster or concrete in order to prevent the spread of fi re.
Fire barriers must be fitted inside the trunking every 5 m, or at every floor level or room dividing wall, if
this is a shorter distance, as shown in Fig. 57 (a). Where trunking is installed vertically, the installed
conductors must be supported so that the maximum unsupported length of non-sheathed cable does not
exceed 5 m. Figure 57 (b) shows cables woven through insulated pin supports, which is one method of
supporting vertical cables. PVC insulated cables are usually drawn into an erected conduit installation or
laid into an erected trunking installation.
122
Figure 283 Installation of trunking (a) fire barriers in trunking (b) cable support in vertical trunking
Trunking capacities
The ratio of the space occupied by all the cables in a conduit or trunking to the whole space enclosed by
the conduit or trunking is known as the space factor. Where sizes and types of cable and trunking are not
covered by the tables in the On Site Guide a space factor of 45% must not be exceeded. This means that
the cables must not fill more than 45% of the space enclosed by the trunking. The tables take this factor
into account.
To calculate the size of trunking required to enclose a number of cables:
• Identify the cable factor for the particular size of conductor, see Table 8.
• Multiply the cable factor by the number of conductors to give the sum of the cable factors.
• Consider the factors for trunking and shown in Table 9.
The correct size of trunking to accommodate the cables is that trunking which has a factor equal to or
greater than the sum of the cable factors.
123
Table 20 Trunking cable factors adapter from the IEE on site guide by kind permission of the Institution
of Electrical Engineers
Table 21 Trunking cable factor. Adapted from the IEE On site Guide by Kind Permission of institution of
Electrical Engineers
124
Cable tray installations
Cable tray is a sheet-steel channel with multiple holes. The most common finish is hot-dipped galvanized
but PVC-coated tray is also available. It is used extensively on large industrial and commercial installations
for supporting MI and SWA cables which are laid on the cable tray and secured with cable ties through
the tray holes. Cable tray should be adequately supported during installation by brackets which are
appropriate for the particular installation. The tray should be bolted to the brackets with round-headed
bolts and nuts, with the round head inside the tray so that cables drawn along the tray are not damaged.
Cable tray should be adequately supported during installation by brackets which are appropriate for the
particular installation. The tray should be bolted to the brackets with round-headed bolts and nuts, with
the round head inside the tray so that cables drawn along the tray are not damaged.
The tray is supplied in standard widths from 50 to 900 mm, and a wide range of bends, tees and reducers
is available. Figure 58 shows associated cable tray installations. The tray can also be bent using a cable
tray bending machine to create bends. The installed tray should be securely bolted with round-headed bolts
where lengths or accessories are attached, so that there is a continuous earth path which may be bonded to
an electrical earth. The whole tray should provide a firm support for the cables and therefore the tray
fixings must be capable of supporting the weight of both the tray and cables.
125
Figure 285 Cable ducts
Installation of final circuits
Definition
A final sub-circuit is an outgoing circuit connected to a distribution board and intended to supply
electrical energy to current-using apparatus, either directly or through socket outlets or fused spur-boxes.
Examples of final sub-circuits includes; lighting, socket-outlets, cooker and water heater. A final sub-
circuit originates from the consumer control unit (CCU) or distribution board (DB). Each final sub-
circuit is protected by an appropriate fuse or circuit breaker mounted in the consumer control unit.
IEE Regulations
i) Where an installation comprises more than one final sub-circuit, each shall be connected to a
separate way in a distribution board.
ii) The wiring of each final sub-circuit shall be electrically separate from that of every other final
sub-circuit.to facilitate disconnection of each final sub-circuit for testing.
iii) Every final sub circuit shall have means of protection against excess current
iv) The neutral conductor shall never be connected in the same order as that in which the live
conductors are connected to the fuses or circuit breakers.
v) The neutral conductor shall never be connected to fuses, switches or circuit breakers.
Terms and Definitions
Circuit- an electric circuit is an arrangement of electrical conductors and associated devices for the
purpose of carrying electricity.
Live conductor- It is that conductor which carry current towards the appliance from the source.
Live- means that under working condition a difference in voltage exists between the conductor and earth.
Neutral conductor- The conductor which carries current from the appliances to the source.
Earth- This is the conductive mass of the earth whose electric potential at any point is electrically taken
to be zero.
Earth conductor- The conductor that has the same potential with the earth.
126
Phase conductor-A conductor of an AC system for the transmission of electrical energy other than a
neutral.
Potential- The level of electric pressure.
Dead- At or about earth potential zero and disconnected from any live system.
Fuse- A device for opening a circuit by means of a fuse element designed to melt when excess current
flows.
Insulation- suitable non-conducting material enclosing or surrounding or supporting a conductor.
Switch- A mechanical device for making and breaking non automatically a circuit carrying current.
Need For Switching
i. Used to put a circuit in use or out of use.
ii. Emergency switching.
iii. Isolating a circuit from the supply for maintenance.
Types of switches
1. Single pole switch
2. Double pole switch
3. Triple pole switch.
I.E.E regulation on switches
i) All single pole switches should always be connected in the live (phase) conductor only.
ii) Fuses shall also be inserted in the live only.
TYPES OF SINGLE POLE SWITCHES
1. One-way switch - This has one path only for current.
2. Two-way switch - This has two alternative paths for current (change over switch).
Or
127
In the one-way switching, the lamp or set of lamps is switched from one particular point. An example is
the switching at the entry of a room with one entry only. The figure 60 shows one-way switch. The ON
and OFF control of the lighting point is only at one position.
128
Two – Way Switching
Where it becomes necessary to have the lamp or set of lamps switched from two separate positions. An
example is a long corridor or in a room with two entries. Figure 61 shows a to-way switch. The ON and
OFF control of the lighting point is from two positions.
Note
129
A lamp or set of lamps may be controlled from any number of positions provided we have 2 two-way
switches and the rest of the switches been intermediate
Types of circuit connections
1. Series connection
2. Parallel connection
Series Connection
The current using equipment are connected in series or one after the other. One end of the equipment is
connected to the other end (End to End) in series connection, the current flowing is the same and the
voltage a cross each equipment will depend on the rating and its resistance
L N
Lamp 1 Lamp 2
Switch
Figure 289 Series connection
The supply voltage is dropped individually across each lamp and depending on the ratings the voltage
across each equipment will vary but the current flowing through all the equipment is the same. That is, if
two lamps of equal resistance are connected in series to a 240 𝑉 supply, the voltage which will appear
across each lamp will be 120 𝑉 and the current will be the same in all lamps
N.B
The lamps in above example may not produce light or be dim because the light produced is equal to:
𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 = 𝑉 2/𝑅
And, V is below rated voltage
For a series connection to work, all lamps have to be good working condition in order to provide
continuity of the circuit.
Disadvantages of series connection
1. If one lamp blows, all lamps go off.
130
2. Lamps will be dim (will not produce enough light) or may fail to light
3. Not reliable- Therefore for practical purposes series circuits are not used
Parallel connection
This is the most common arrangement for lighting circuits.
All lamps are connected across the supply and each lamp receives the supply voltage a cross it.
Each lamp can be controlled separately. If one lamp blows out, all the other will continue working.
L N
Switch
NEUTRAL
LIVE
LAMP FEEDS
SWITCH FEEDS
132
Looping in from a switch.
Fuse
Switch 2
Switch 1
Neutral
Live
133
Feed in To lighting
point
To switch
Plug
Definition
A device intended for connection to a fixed cord or flexible cable which can be engaged manually with a
socket outlet and which has current carrying contact pins which may be exposed when not engaged.
135
Socket outlet will be wired such that the terminal marked L will receive the live wire, the terminal
marked N will receive the Neutral and the one marked E will receive the earth wire. Socket outlets must
be installed in a place to wait for a plug but not the vice-versa. The figure 69 shows a diagram of a plug.
N E L
N L
136
Consumer control
unit
2.5 mm2
Cable
EARTH
NEUTRAL
2.5 mm2
Cable
EARTH
LIVE
NEUTRAL
Last 13 A
switched
First 13 A socket
switched outlet
socket outlet
137
A spur is a socket that branches off a ring circuit. The number of spurs fed from a ring circuit must not
exceed the number of sockets in the ring. The cables connecting the spur must be of the same size as that
of the ring circuit. The minimum cable size for ring and radial circuit is 2.5mm2.
Advantages of a ring circuit over a Radial circuit
1. There is total safety in ring circuit than in Radial for the circuit is in form of a ring
2. An open circuit point in the Ring circuit will not affect any other socket in the system
This is because there are two paths of current and is one path is open the current will flow
through the other
3. Smaller sizes of cables may be used in Ring than in a Radial. This is because the Ring has two
parallel current paths
4. More loads may be fed or connected to a Ring circuit than a Radial circuit of the same capacity
Disadvantages of Ring over Radial
1. More cables lengths require in a Ring than in Radial therefore becomes more expensive
2. It consumes more time to install a Ring circuit than Radial because more cables have to be
installed.
I.E.E Regulations on Ring and Radial circuit
1. A Ring circuit it may serve an unlimited number of points but shall not serve an area of more
than 100𝑚 2
2. For a Ring final sub-circuit, the total number of spurs shall not exceed the total number of socket
outlets and stationary appliances connected directly in the ring circuit.
3. Where two or more ring final sub circuit are installed, the socket outlet to be served shall
reasonably be distributed among the separate ring circuit
4. For a Radial or Ring final sub circuit the Rating of the fuse or circuit breaker at the circuit
breaker shall not exceed 30A
5. Each circuit conductor of a ring final sub circuit shall be run in the form of a Ring commencing
and returning to the same way in the circuit breaker.
6. Except where Ring is run throughout in metallic conduct, Ducts or Trunking, Earth continuity
conductor shall run in form of a ring originating and returning to same point in the circuit
breaker.
7. For a Radial circuit the current rating of the circuit conductors shall not be less than Rating of the
fuse or circuit breaker protecting the final sub- circuit
Water heating circuits
A small, single-point over-sink type water heater may be considered as a permanently connected
appliance and so may be connected to a ring circuit through a fused connection unit. A water heater of
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the immersion type is usually rated at a maximum of 3 kW, and could be considered as a permanently
connected appliance, fed from a fused connection unit.
However, many immersion heating systems are connected into storage vessels of about 150 litres in
domestic installations, and the On-Site Guide states that immersion heaters fitted to vessels in excess of
15 litres should be supplied by their own circuit. Therefore, immersion heaters must be wired on a
separate radial circuit when they are connected to water vessels which hold more than 15 litres. Figure
73 shows the wiring arrangements for an immersion heater.
Every switch must be a double-pole (DP) switch and out of reach of anyone using a fixed bath or shower
when the immersion heater is fitted to a vessel in a bathroom. Supplementary equipotential bonding to
pipework will only be required as an addition to fault protection if the immersion heater vessel is in a
bathroom that does not have:
a. all circuits protected by a 30 mA RCD
b. Protective equipotential bonding,
139
Cooker circuit
A cooker with a rating above 3 kW must be supplied on its own circuit but since it is unlikely that in
normal use every heating element will be switched on at the same time, a diversity factor may be applied
in calculating the cable size, as detailed in the On Site Guide.
Consider, as an example, a cooker with the following elements fed from a cooker control unit
incorporating a 13 A socket:
In a normally closed circuit, the alarm call points are connected in series to normally closed contacts as
shown in Fig. 75. When the alarm is initiated, or if a break occurs in the wiring, the alarm is activated. The
sounders and master control unit must be wired in MI or FP200 cable, but the call points may be wired in
PVC insulated cable since this circuit will always ‘fail safe’
141
Figure 301 A simple normally closed fire alarm circuit
142
Figure 303 Typical fire alarm sounders
Bell and bell circuits
The electric bell converts the magnetic effect of an electric current into sound it therefore enables
audible warnings or signals to be transmitted as current over long distances by running of electric
conductor cables figure 78 shows a single stroke bell. For most bell circuits, the use of lower voltages is
employed which necessitates the installation of a bell transformer. Bells can be operated from manually-
operated push-buttons or automatic switching from alarm devices such as door or window devices for
burglar-alarm systems or detection devices for fire outbreaks.
143
Electrical machines circuits
A DOL starter connects the three main lines (L1, L2 and L3) directly to the motor terminals when the
start button is pressed. The drawing of a DOL starter is generally done in two separate stages. These are
called the Power Circuit and the Control Circuit. Power Circuit the power circuit shows all the
components or parts of components required to handle the load current of the motor. Remember that the
motor in question may be a small 1.5 kW (2 HP) or a large 225 kW (300 HP). As the motor power rating
increases so too must the current rating of the contactor, overload relay and supply cables. The control
circuit shows all the components or parts of components required to control the motor. These
components are basically the same regardless of the power rating of the motor in question. Note that
when wiring circuits, the supply should be fed in on the low number terminal and out on the high
number terminal. The figure 79 shows a complete schematic diagram of Direct On line (DOL) starter
144
Star Delta Starter
145
6. Implement electrical 7. Single phase systems
installations as per the 8. Wiring systems and
accessories
working drawing
Electrical installations final
circuits
support systems to
specifications.
12. Label installation for Cable labelling for identification
identification
6.2.4.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the precautions necessary to observe when installing sheathed wiring systems
2. (a). What two advantages do plastic conduit have over metallic conduit.
(b). what two advantages do metallic conduit have over non- metallic conduit.
3. Mechanical protection of cables in an electrical installation defines the type of wiring system. What
factors are to be considered when determining the choice of a wiring system?
4. What are the types of PVC conduits?
5. Conduit installation must meet the IEE regulation; what any two IEE regulation do you think must be
observed when installing steel conduits.
146
6.2.4.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
6.2.4.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
147
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
149
i. Type of the building
ii. Durability
iii. Cost
iv. Flexibility
v. Time taken
4. What are the types of PVC conduits?
i. Heavy gauge conduit
ii. Light gauge conduit
5. Conduit installation must meet the IEE regulation; what any two IEE regulation do you think must be
observed when installing steel conduits.
i. Steel conduits must always be earthed.
ii. Conduits must always be installed before drawing in the cables.
iii. Radius of the bend should not exceed 2½ from the diameter of the conduit.
iv. Space factor of cable in conduit should not exceed 40% or 0.04.
150
6.2.5 Learning Outcome 5 Facilitate other service providers
b) Non-verbal communication
Non-verbal communication is when you communicate with others without using words.
Body language – gestures, facial expressions, posture – can tell other people a lot about what you really
mean that might not be communicated by the actual words you use.
152
Have a look at the body language of the three people below. Which one do you think really does feel
happy? What do the other two really think?
Non-verbal communication is often sent unintentionally; that is, you don’t deliberately send it as part of
your message, but it is still received by the other person. However, sometimes we deliberately use non-
verbal communication to create or reinforce a particular meaning in our messages. For example, if you
ask, ‘What are you doing?’ in an angry tone of voice, you’re probably expressing displeasure rather than
curiosity.
c) Written communication
Written communication means using the written word to send information. This could be on paper, a
screen, a billboard or even a T-shirt.
There are many different types of written communication used regularly in the construction industry and
some examples are listed in the following table. Each type is more suited to some situations, audiences or
purposes than others.
d) Visual communication
Visual communication covers all types of communication we see rather than read or hear. It is usually
pictorial, although there could be a few words present as well, such as on a sign or poster. Workers in the
construction industry use a lot of visual communication, for example, plans and diagrams, safety signs,
warning lights and hand signals.
e) Formal and informal communication
The way we speak to different people depends on who they are, how well we know them and the situation
we are in. We don’t use the same words and tone of voice to speak to a teacher or boss as we do when
we’re chatting to our mates.
We are likely to speak quite formally to people in authority like teachers or police officers but we can be
far more relaxed and spontaneous with family and friends. In the workplace we usually use formal
communication with our employers and supervisors, and informal communication with our workmates.
Formal and informal communication can also relate to the way we write. An email to a workmate would
probably be quite casual but a job application would definitely be written more formally
Sources of technical information
Equipment and accessories available to use in a specific situation can often be found in the very
comprehensive manufacturer’s catalogues and the catalogues of the major wholesalers that service the
electrotechnical industries.
All of this technical information may be distributed and retrieved by using:
• conventional drawings and diagrams which we will look at in more detail below
153
• sketch drawing to illustrate an idea or the shape of say a bracket to hold a piece of
electrical equipment
• the Internet can be used to download British Standards and Codes of Practice
• The Internet can also be used to download health and safety information from the health
and safety.
• CDs, DVDs, USB memory sticks and email can be used to communicate and store
information electronically
• The facsimile (Fax) machine can be used to communicate with other busy professionals,
information say about a project you are working on together.
If you are working at your company office with access to online computers, then technical information is
only a fingertip or mouse click away. However, a construction site is a hostile environment for a laptop
and so a hard copy of any data is preferable on site.
6.2.5.4 Learning Activities
Practical activities Knowledge
3. Identify other service providers on site. Other service providers in the construction site.
6.2.5.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the five ways in which you can make your communication efforts as effective as
possible?
2. Communication can be grouped into four main types. What are these groups?
3. What method would you use to let the office know that the materials you were expecting have
not yet arrived?
4. In what ways can technical information be retrieved?
5. What are the advantages of written communication?
154
6.2.5.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Recommended Resources
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
155
6.2.5.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
156
safety, C. c. (2020, November 23). https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html.
Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca:
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
• Being a keen listener: Effective communication depends on listening skills since it would
allow both parties to understand each other.
• Paying attention to non-verbal communication: Communication is often accompanied by
non-verbal cues. Every party in a conversation has to identify and understand the non-
verbal cues and how to use them to ensure that the information delivered is accurate.
• Making a keen choice of language use: The choice of words hugely impacts the information
being delivered during communication and the overall perception of the recipient on the
information.
• Efficiently expressing oneself: During a communication, an individual has to share their
thoughts and feelings on the topic at hand as honestly as possible, while still acknowledging
other people's opinions.
157
• Control of emotions: During a conversation, one must prevent emotions from running the
conversation
2. Communication can be grouped into four main types. What are these groups?
• Verbal
• non-verbal
• written
• Visual
3. What method would you use to let the office know that the materials you were expecting have not
yet arrived?
• Email
• Telephone call
4. In what ways can technical information be retrieved?
• conventional drawings and diagrams which we will look at in more detail below
• sketch drawing to illustrate an idea or the shape of say a bracket to hold a piece of
electrical equipment
• the Internet can be used to download British Standards and Codes of Practice
• The Internet can also be used to download health and safety information from the
health and safety.
• CDs, DVDs, USB memory sticks and email can be used to communicate and store
information electronically
• The facsimile (Fax) machine can be used to communicate with other busy
professionals, information say about a project you are working on together.
5. What are the advantages of written communication?
• It is suitable for long distance communication and repetitive standing orders.
• It creates permanent record of evidence.
• It gives the receiver sufficient time to think, act and react.
• It can be used as legal document.
• It can be sent to many persons at a time
158
6.2.6 Learning Outcome 6
6.2.6.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
To maintain housekeeping, prepare safety checklist for electrical equipment and machines, carry out
regular follow up according to the prepared checklist, and follow up workplace procedures to deal
with any accidents and damage of equipment occurring during the cleaning process and record and
report activities as per the established procedures.
6.2.6.2 Performance Standard
6.2.6.2.1 Prepare safety checklist for electrical equipment and machines
6.2.6.2.2 Carry out regular follow up according to the prepared checklist
6.2.6.2.3 Follow up workplace procedures to deal with any accidents and damage of equipment
occurring during the cleaning process
6.2.6.2.4 Record and report activities as per the established procedures.
6.2.6.3 Information Sheet
Housekeeping
Electrical workshops must be kept clean and dry. If spills or leaks occur, they must be cleaned up
promptly to avoid the risk of electrocution. Additionally, walking and working surfaces should be as free
from debris as possible to minimize slips, trips and falls. Slipping, tripping and falling into electrical
equipment in a workshop can cause severe injuries. The elements of an effective housekeeping program
are:
a) Maintenance
The maintenance of buildings and equipment may be the most important element of good housekeeping.
Maintenance involves keeping buildings, equipment and machinery in safe, efficient working order and
in good repair. It includes maintaining sanitary facilities and regularly painting and cleaning walls.
Broken windows, damaged doors, defective plumbing and broken floor surfaces can make a workplace
look neglected; these conditions can cause incidents and affect work practices. So it is important to
replace or fix broken or damaged items as quickly as possible. A good maintenance program provides
for the inspection, maintenance, upkeep and repair of tools, equipment, machines and processes.
b) Dust and dirt removal
Enclosures and exhaust ventilation systems may fail to collect dust, dirt and chips adequately. Vacuum
cleaners are suitable for removing light dust and dirt that is not otherwise hazardous. Industrial models
have special fittings for cleaning walls, ceilings, ledges, machinery, and other hard-to-reach places
where dust and dirt may accumulate.
159
Special-purpose vacuums are useful for removing hazardous products. For example, vacuum cleaners
fitted with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters may be used to capture fine particles of asbestos
or fibreglass.
Dampening (wetting) floors or using sweeping compounds before sweeping reduces the amount of
airborne dust. The dust and grime that collect in places like shelves, piping, conduits, light fixtures,
reflectors, windows, cupboards and lockers may require manual cleaning.
Compressed air should not be used for removing dust, dirt or chips from equipment or work surfaces.
c) Employee facilities
Employee facilities need to be adequate, clean and well maintained. Lockers may be necessary for
storing employees' personal belongings. Washroom facilities require cleaning once or more each shift.
They also need to have a good supply of soap, towels plus disinfectants, if needed.
If workers are using hazardous products, employee facilities should provide special precautions as
needed such as showers, washing facilities and change rooms. Some facilities may require two locker
rooms with showers between. Using such double locker rooms allows workers to shower off workplace
contaminants and reduces the chance of contaminating their "street clothes" by keeping their work
clothes separated from the clothing that they wear home.
Smoking, eating or drinking in the work area should be prohibited where hazardous products are
handled. The eating area should be separate from the work area and should be cleaned properly each
shift.
d) Surfaces
Floors: Poor floor conditions are a leading cause of incidents so cleaning up spilled oil and other liquids
at once is important. Allowing chips, shavings and dust to accumulate can also cause incidents. Trapping
chips, shavings and dust before they reach the floor or cleaning them up regularly can prevent their
accumulation. Areas that cannot be cleaned continuously, such as entrance ways, should have anti-slip
flooring. Keeping floors in good order also means replacing any worn, ripped, or damaged flooring that
poses a tripping hazard.
Walls: Light-coloured walls reflect light while dirty or dark-coloured walls absorb light. Contrasting
colours warn of physical hazards and mark obstructions such as pillars. Paint can highlight railings,
guards and other safety equipment, but should never be used as a substitute for guarding. The program
should outline the regulations and standards for colours.
e) Maintain Light Fixtures
Dirty light fixtures reduce essential light levels. Clean light fixtures can improve lighting efficiency
significantly.
160
f) Aisles and Stairways
Aisles should be wide enough to accommodate people and vehicles comfortably and safely. Aisle space
allows for the movement of people, products and materials. Warning signs and mirrors can improve
sight-lines in blind corners. Arranging aisles properly encourages people to use them so that they do not
take shortcuts through hazardous areas.
Keeping aisles and stairways clear is important. They should not be used for temporary "overflow" or
"bottleneck" storage. Stairways and aisles also require adequate lighting.
g) Spill Control
The best way to control spills is to stop them before they happen. Regularly cleaning and maintaining
machines and equipment is one way. Another is to use drip pans and guards where possible spills might
occur. When spills do occur, it is important to clean them up immediately. Absorbent materials are
useful for wiping up greasy, oily or other liquid spills. Used absorbents must be disposed of properly and
safely.
h) Tools and Equipment
Tool housekeeping is very important, whether in the tool room, on the rack, in the yard, or on the bench.
Tools require suitable fixtures with marked locations to provide an orderly arrangement. Returning tools
promptly after use reduces the chance of it being misplaced or lost. Workers should regularly inspect,
clean and repair all tools and take any damaged or worn tools out of service.
i) Waste Disposal
The regular collection, grading and sorting of scrap contribute to good housekeeping practices. It also
makes it possible to separate materials that can be recycled from those going to waste disposal facilities.
Allowing material to build up on the floor wastes time and energy since additional time is required for
cleaning it up. Placing scrap containers near where the waste is produced encourages orderly waste
disposal and makes collection easier. All waste receptacles should be clearly labelled (e.g., recyclable
glass, plastic, scrap metal, etc.).
j) Storage
Good organization of stored materials is essential for overcoming material storage problems whether on
a temporary or permanent basis. There will also be fewer strain injuries if the amount of handling is
reduced, especially if less manual material handling is required. The location of the stockpiles should not
interfere with work but they should still be readily available when required. Stored materials should
allow at least one metre (or about three feet) of clear space under sprinkler heads.
Stacking cartons and drums on a firm foundation and cross tying them, where necessary, reduces the
chance of their movement. Stored materials should not obstruct aisles, stairs, exits, fire equipment,
emergency eyewash fountains, emergency showers, or first aid stations. All storage areas should be
clearly marked.
161
Flammable, combustible, toxic and other hazardous materials should be stored in approved containers in
designated areas that are appropriate for the different hazards that they pose. Storage of materials should
meet all requirements specified in the fire codes and the regulations of environmental and occupational
health and safety agencies in your jurisdiction.
Use the following checklist as a general workplace guide.
Floors and Other Areas
• Are floors clean and clear of waste?
• Are signs posted to warn of wet floors?
• Are floors in good condition?
• Are there holes, worn or loose planks or carpet sticking up?
• Is anti-slip flooring used where spills, moisture or grease are likely?
• Are there protruding objects such as nails, sharp corners, open cabinet drawers, trailing electrical
wires?
• Are personal items, such as clothing and lunch boxes, in assigned lockers or storage areas?
• Is the work area congested?
• Are floors well-drained?
Aisles and Stairways
• Are aisles unobstructed and clearly marked?
• Are mirrors installed at blind corners?
• Are aisles wide enough to accommodate workers and equipment comfortably?
• Are safe loading practices used with hand and power trucks, skids, or pallets?
• Is the workplace lighting adequate? Are stairs well lit?
• Are stairs covered with an anti-slip tread? Are faulty stair treads repaired?
Spill Control
• Are all spills wiped up quickly?
• Are procedures followed as indicated on the material safety data sheet?
• Are spill absorbents used for greasy, oily, flammable or toxic materials?
• Are used rags and absorbents disposed of promptly and safely?
• Is a spill area surrounded by a barrier to prevent a spill from spreading?
Equipment and Machinery Maintenance
• Is equipment in good working order, with all necessary guards or safety features operational or in
place?
• Is equipment damaged or outdated?
• Are tools and machinery inspected regularly for wear or leaks?
162
• Is equipment repaired promptly?
• Are drip pans or absorbent materials used if leaks cannot be stopped at the source?
• Is a machine that splashes oil fitted with a screen or splash guard?
• Are machines and tools cleaned regularly?
Waste Disposal
• Are there adequate number of containers?
• Are there separate and approved containers for toxic and flammable waste?
• Are waste containers located where the waste is produced?
• Are waste containers emptied regularly?
• Are toxic and flammable waste chemicals handled properly?
Storage
• Are storage areas safe and accessible?
• Is material stacked securely, blocked or interlocked if possible?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not obstruct stairs, fire escapes, exits or firefighting
equipment?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not interfere with workers or the flow of materials?
• Are bins or racks provided where material cannot be piled?
• Are all storage areas clearly marked?
• Do workers understand material storage and handling procedures?
Fire Prevention
• Are combustible and flammable materials present only in the quantities needed for the job at
hand?
• Are combustible and flammable materials kept in safety cans during use?
• Are hazardous materials stored in approved containers and away from ignition sources?
• Are sprinkler heads clear of stored material?
• Are fire extinguishers inspected and located along commonly travelled routes, and close to
possible ignition sources?
Are oily or greasy rags placed in metal containers and disposed of regularly?
6.2.6.4 Learning Activities
Industrial attachment/workshop Practice
163
5. Prepare safety checklist for Safety and electrical tools,
electrical equipment and materials and equipment
machines
6. Carry out regular follow up
according to the prepared
checklist
7. Follow-up workplace
procedures to deal with any
accidents and damage of
equipment occurring during
the cleaning process
8. Record and report activities
as per the established
procedures.
6.2.6.5 Self-Assessment
1. What does the team housekeeping mean?
2. What are some benefits of good housekeeping practices?
3. What are the elements of an effective housekeeping program?
4. What would you include in your checklist to ensure waste are disposed appropriately?
6.2.6.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Material
Recommended Resources
164
➢ Draw wires • Screws
➢ Hack saws
➢ Drilling tools
➢ Stock and die
➢ Bench vice
➢ Machine vice
➢ PPE – hand gloves, dust coats, dust
masks, helmets, ear muffs, industrial
boots
Reference materials
• IEE regulations
• Occupational safety and health act (OSHA)
• Work injury benefits act (WIBA)
• Manufacturers’ catalogues
• British standards
• KEBS standards
6.2.6.7 References
Ames, B. B. (2006, January 11). "How CAD keep it simple". Product News network.
(2016). Conduct workplace communication certificate in building and construction learners guide.
Australia: Department of training and workforce development.
https://watchdogpm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png. (2020,
November 17). Retrieved from https://watchdogpm.com: https://watchdogpm.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/04/How-to-read-architectural-plans.png
165
https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad. (2020, November 17).
Retrieved from www.designtechcadacademy.com:
https://www.designtechcadacademy.com/knowledge-base/introduction-to-cad
https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-
ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-
the-reason-concept-transformer_125412. (2020, November 22). Retrieved from
https://www.shaalaa.com: https://www.shaalaa.com/question-bank-solutions/i-draw-a-clear-
labelled-diagram-of-an-electric-bell-ii-explain-in-brief-its-working-iii-what-material-is-used-for-
the-core-of-an-electric-bell-state-the-reason-concept-transformer_125412
J.Hyde. (1994). Electrical Installation Principles and Practices. London: Maccmillan education Ltd.
Walters, J. (2013). Trade Electrician, motor control. In J. Walters, Trade Electrician (pp. 34-36). dublin,
Ireland: Solas.
168
CHAPTER 7: TESTING OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
Unit of learning code: ENG/OS/EI/CR/03/5
Visual electrical checks are best used during the interim period between testing regimes to
ensure that an installation remains in a ‘safe to use’ state. They are not to be used as a
replacement for the formal periodic inspection tests as advised by the institute of Engineering
and Technology.
• Electrical leads are checked for damage and repairs and also that they are not in a position
where they can be damaged
• All electrical appliances are working
• Extension leads are being used correctly.
• Plugs and sockets are intact i.e. not cracked or damaged, with no dis-colouration or burn
marks Socket outlets are not overloaded.
• Light sockets and switches are securely fitted with no dis-colouration or burn marks.
• Bathroom electrical outlets are at least three meters from the edge of a bath or shower
cubicle and those electric heaters and boilers are permanently wired. They should not be free
standing or portable.
• Visual electrical inspection sheet
Checks to be undertaken
visual evidence).*
box).
frequently.
4. Fixtures and Fittings
5 Electrical Appliances
Phase 1 - Red.
Phase 2 - Yellow
Phase 3 - Blue
Neutral - Black
Earthing provides protection against this type of fault. We also need to check that
extraneous conductive parts have been correctly bonded with protective conductors.
An extraneous conductive part is a conductive part that is liable to introduce a
potential, generally earth potential, and not form part of an electrical installation;
examples of extraneous conductive parts are metal sink tops and metal water pipes.
The purpose of the bonding is to ensure that all extraneous conductive parts which are
simultaneously accessible are at the same potential. Methods of fault protection are
given as:
• Earthed equipotential bonding and automatic disconnection of supply
(most common)use of class II equipment
• Non conducting location
• Earth-free local equipotential bonding
• Electrical separation
v. Protective devices: This is a device used to protect equipment,
machinery,components and devices,in electrical and electronic circuit,against
short circuit,over current and earth fault
vi. Checks on documentation: Diagrams, schedules, charts, instructions and any
other information must be available if inspection and testing is to be carried out in
a satisfactory manner.
vii. Checks on warning notices: These should be fixed to equipment operating in
excess of 250 volts where this voltage would not normally be expected.
• Wattmeter
• Clamp meter
• Infrared camera
• Frequency meter
• Synchroscope
• Tachometer
• Tacho generator
• Laser meter
• Lux meter
7.2.1.7 References
1. Noel Williams, Jeffrey S. Sargent, 2014, Electrical Inspection Manual, 2014 Edition,
Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2014
2. Hari Mohan Johri, 2010, Electrical Installations in Building (Inglés) Tapa blanda,
edition 2010, K W Publishers Pvt Ltd
3. John Blaus, Dave Allan, 2008, Electrical installations NVQ and technical certificate
book 2, second edition, Pearson education limited.
Unless domestic premises are extremely large, it is unlikely that a three-phase supply
would be needed, and consequently only single-phase systems will be considered here.
The requirement is that circuits which need to be separately controlled, for example
lighting and power, remain energized in the event of the failure of any other circuit of the
installation. Hence, an earth fault on, say, a socket-outlet circuit would cause the whole of
the installation to be cut off if protected by one 30 mA RCD.
ii) Industrial
Industrial installation means an installation intended for use in the manufacture or processing
of products involving systematic labor or habitual employment and includes installations in
which agricultural or other products are habitually or customarily processed or stored for
others, either by buying or reselling on.
iii) Commercial
Commercial installation means an installation intended for commerce but does not include a
residential installation.
Commercial buildings are buildings that are used for commercial purposes, and include office
buildings, warehouses, and retail buildings (e.g. convenience stores, 'big box' stores,
and shopping malls).
An insulation resistance (IR) test measures the total resistance between any two points
separated by electrical insulation. The test, therefore, determines how effective the dielectric
(insulation) is in resisting the flow of electrical current. Such tests are useful for checking the
quality of insulation, not only when a product is first manufactured but also over time as the
product is used.
Performing such tests at regular time intervals can detect impending insulation failures before
they occur and prevent user accidents or costly product repairs.
The following items are used for basic measurement of voltages, currents, and components in the
circuit under test.
Manufacturer specifications are an important element of cost and quality control for testing,
calibration and other measurement processes. They are used in the selection of measuring and
test equipment (MTE) and the establishment of equivalent equipment substitutions for a given
measurement application.
7.2.2.5 Self-assessment
iii) Why polarity test is performed?
iv) What is polarity in electricity testing?
v) Is polarity a dead Test?
vi) What is the objective of earthing?
vii) How do you use insulation tester?
• Wattmeter
• Clamp meter
• Infrared camera
• Frequency meter
• Synchroscope
• Tachometer
• Tacho generator
• Laser meter
• Lux meter
7.2.2.7 References
Noel Williams, Jeffrey S. Sargent, 2014, Electrical Inspection Manual, 2014 Edition, Jones &
Bartlett Learning, 2014
Hari Mohan Johri, 2010, Electrical Installations in Building (Inglés) Tapa blanda, edition
2010, K W Publishers Pvt Ltd
John Blaus, Dave Allan, 2008, Electrical installations NVQ and technical certificate book 2,
second edition, Pearson education limited.
ii. Polarity in electrical terms refers to the positive or negative conductors within a dc
circuit, or to the Line and Neutral conductor within an ac circuit. ... In the context
of electricity installations, a polarity test is used to confirm the correct connection of the
line and neutral conductors.
iii. There are three checks of polarity during testing – dead and live testing and visual
inspection and while they all confirm correct/incorrect polarity they do not necessarily
check for the same thing. ... Unless you test for polarity you will never know and neither
will the person operating the load.
iv. Earthing System or Grounding System in an electrical network work as a safety measure
to protect human life as well as equipment, the main objective of the Earthing system is
to provide an alternative path for dangerous currents to flow so that accidents due to
electric shock and damage to the equipment can be avoided.
v. If you are testing insulation resistance to ground, place the positive probe on the ground
wire or the grounded metal junction box and the negative probe on the conductor or
terminal. Energize the Megger for 1 minute. Read the value of the resistance at the end
of the minute test and note it in your table.
When conducting voltage verification, for energized and de-energized work, the electrical
worker must select the right test instruments and equipment applicable to the work to be
performed. As a minimum, these should include the following:
• Environment
Electrical testing in its most basic form is the act of applying a voltage or current to a circuit
and comparing the measured value to an expected result. Electrical test equipment verifies
the math behind a circuit and each piece of test equipment is designed for a specific
application.
It is the job of a test technician to know which piece of test equipment to use for the task at
hand and also understand the limitations of the test equipment they are using.
One key to ensuring that measuring instruments, maintain a high level of reliability and
accuracy is by taking proper care of them. Below is what you should know about the care and
maintenance of these special precision tools.
• Proper lubrication of measuring instruments will prevent damage due to corrosion and
oxidation. Precision measuring instruments should be lightly oiled after each use, and any
excess oil should be removed from metal surfaces with a clean, dry cloth. A visibly "wet"
instrument can attract and hold minute particles that can cause internal wear of precisely
fabricated parts, especially those that move against one another.
Whenever you place an instrument in its storage location, be sure the location is well-
protected from destructive elements. Do not store precision instruments where they can jostle
against one another in a drawer; instead, separate instruments from one another using
dividers or place them in padded cases. Avoid stacking instruments on top of each other,
unless they are well-protected in cases.
Once you have a precise measuring instrument in your hand, it becomes that much more
important to protect that tool from harm or providing false readings. There are a few things you
should do that will help prevent damage or miscalibration during use, including avoiding
sudden shocks or rough treatment. Do not drop, throw, or bang measuring instruments against
hard surfaces.
7.2.3.5 Self-assessment
i) Can you do a continuity test on a live circuit?
ii) How do you test electrical continuity?
iii) What is a bad continuity reading?
iv) What does a reading of 0 ohms mean?
v) How do you check continuity on a long wire?
• Multimeter/AVO meter
• Wattmeter
• Clamp meter
• Infrared camera
• Frequency meter
• Synchroscope
• Tachometer
• Tacho generator
• Laser meter
• Lux meter
7.2.3.7 References
Noel Williams, Jeffrey S. Sargent, 2014, Electrical Inspection Manual, 2014 Edition, Jones
& Bartlett Learning, 2014
Hari Mohan Johri, 2010, Electrical Installations in Building (Inglés) Tapa blanda, edition
2010, K W Publishers Pvt Ltd
John Blaus, Dave Allan, 2008, Electrical installations NVQ and technical certificate book 2,
second edition, Pearson education limited
ii. A continuity test is performed by placing a small voltage (wired in series with an LED or
noise-producing component such as a piezoelectric speaker) across the chosen path. If
electron flow is inhibited by broken conductors, damaged components, or excessive
resistance, the circuit is "open".
iii. If you have a reading higher than 10 ohms, you have poor continuity. The resistance is
higher than it should be and you need to replace the wire, fuse, outlet, battery, or device. ...
If the reading is higher than 10, then your device, wire, appliance, or fuse will overheat.
iv. A measurement of Zero, or very close to zero (less than 0.5 ohms) indicates a very low
resistance to current flow. Applying voltage to this low level of resistance will result in
extremely high current flow.
v. To check continuity on a run of wiring, disconnect both ends of the wire. Set your
multimeter to check continuity with a tone. Put one meter lead on one end of the wire and
the other meter lead on the opposite end of the wire. The meter signals a tone and shows
near zero ohms of resistance if the wire has continuity.
7.2.4 Learning Outcome 4: Perform the test
The operator's manual explains safety guidelines when operating specific pieces of
equipment. Number two, how to operate the equipment, its safety features and controls.
Some manufactures refer to this as “Familiarization Training”.
Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your equipment and tool is important. Educate yourself on what services
your equipment and tool needs and when they are recommended. Many manuals include
helpful logs to record your service history and repair information.
Insulation resistance should have a high value and therefore insulation resistance meters
must have the ability to measure high resistance readings. The test voltage required for
measuring insulation resistance is given in BS 7671 Table 61, as shown in Table 4 below.
Table 25 Test voltage required for measuring insulation resistance (from BS 7671)
The figure 3 hows a typical modern insulation and continuity tester that will measure
both low values of resistance, for use when carrying out continuity and polarity tests, and
also high values of resistance when used for insulation resistance tests.
Earth-loop impedance testers of the type shown in the figure 5 below they have the
capability to measure both earth-loop impedance and also prospective short-circuit
current, depending on which function is selected on the range selection switch. The
instrument also has a series of LED warning lights to indicate whether the polarity of the
circuit under test is correct. The instrument gives a direct digital read-out of the value of
the measurement being taken at an accuracy of plus or minus 2 per cent.
A test light, also known as a test lamp, or voltage tester, or mains tester is a piece
of electronic test equipment used to determine the presence of electricity in a piece of
equipment under test. A test light is simpler and less costly than a measuring instrument
such as a multimeter, and often suffices for checking for the presence of voltage on a
conductor. Properly designed test lights include features to protect the user from
accidental electric shock. Non-contact test lights can detect voltage on insulated
conductors.
Polarity test
Step 1. Select a GS 38 approved voltage indicator and locate the Main Switch. Test
between Line and Neutral terminals.
There are several methods of earthing like wire or strip earthing, rod earthing, pipe
earthing, plate earthing or earthing through water mains. Most commonly used methods
of earthing are pipe earthing and plate earthing. These methods are explained below in
details.
Earthing Mat
Earthing mat is made by joining the number of rods through copper conductors. It
reduced the overall grounding resistance. Such type of system helps in limiting the
ground potential. Earthing mat is mostly used in a placed where the large fault current is
to be experienced. While designing an earth mat, the following step is taken into
consideration.
i. In a fault condition, the voltage between the ground and the ground surface should
not be dangerous to a person who may touch the non current-carrying conducting
surface of the electrical system.
ii. The uninterrupted fault current that may flow into the earthing mat should be large
enough to operate the protective relay. The resistance of the ground is low to allow
the fault current to flow through it. The resistance of the mat should not be of such a
magnitude as to permit the flow of fatal current in the live body.
iii. The design of grounding mat should be such that the step voltage should be less than
the permissible value which would depend on the resistivity of the soil and fault
required for isolating the faulty plant from the live system.
In this type of earthing any wire, rod, pipe, plate or a bundle of conductors, inserted in the
ground horizontally or vertically. In distributing systems, the earth electrode may consist
of a rod, about 1 meter in length and driven vertically into the ground. In generating
substations, grounding mat is used rather than individual rods.
Pipe Earthing
This is the most common and best system of earthing as compared to other systems
suitable for the same earth and moisture conditions. In this method the galvanized steel
and perforated pipe of approved length and diameter in place upright in a permanently
wet soil, as shown below. The size of the pipe depends upon the current to be carried and
type of soil.
The pipe is placed at 3.75 meters. The bottom of the pipe is surrounded by small pieces
of coke or charcoal at a distance of about 15 cm. Alternate layers of coke and salt are
used to increase the effective area of the earth and to decrease the earth resistance
respectively.
Another pipe of 19 mm diameter and minimum length 1.25 meters is connected at the top
of GI pipe through reducing socket.
During summer the moisture in the soil decreases, which causes an increase in earth
resistance. So a cement concrete work is done to keep the water arrangement accessible,
and in summer to have an effective earth, 3 or 4 buckets of water are put through the
funnel connected to 19 mm diameter pipe, which is further connected to GI pipe.
The earth wire either GI or a strip of GI wire of sufficient cross section to carry faulty
current safely is carried in a GI pipe of diameter 12 mm at a depth of about 60cm from
the ground.
Plate Earthing
The earth plate is inserted into auxiliary layers of coke and salt for a minimum thickness
of 15 cm. The earth wire (GI or copper wire) is tightly bolted to an earth plate with the
help of nut or bolt. The copper plate and copper wire are usually not employed for
grounding purposes because of their higher cost.
Earthing Through Water Mains
In this type of earthing the GI or copper wire are connected to the water mains with the
help of the steel binding wire which is fixed on copper lead as shown below.
The water pipe is made up of metal, and it is placed below the surface of the ground, i.e.
directly connected to earth. The fault current flow through the GI or copper wire is
directly get earthed through the water pipe.
To perform the tests needed, you will need an Insulation Resistance Tester or a
multifunctional tester such as the Megger 1553.
Step 1. Select the required circuit and disconnect its live conductors from the
distribution board (the earth conductor can stay)
Figure 320 Insulation Resistance test sequence
Step 2. Connect one of the test leads of the Insulation Tester to the Line conductor and
the other one to the Neutral conductor. Set the tester to the required voltage and press and
hold the TEST button – the tester will display a value in Ohm`s or if it is out of its range
than something like this: >299 MΩ
Figure 321 Insulation Resistance test sequence
Step 3. Repeat the test process with one of the test leads on the Line conductor and the
other one on the Earth conductor
Test every circuit within the distribution board one by one, and record the test results
on the Schedule of Test Results.
NB. You can perform this test on a whole range of circuits in a single process. You
can test between all of the Line conductors and all of the Earth conductors within the
distribution board. After this step, between all of the Neutral conductors and all of the
Earth conductors. The only down side is that if there is a low insulation resistance
reading then you will have to test the circuits one by one to find out which one has the
fault on it. However, most of the time, you can save valuable time by insulation testing
the entire board this way.
➢ Ring circuit continuity
Provided the test results are recorded methodically the test can be used to confirm:
The sockets are correctly connected (provided the readings in steps 2 and 3 below have
been made using a test lead with a plug plugged into the socket)
The test will also reveal various types of fault. The test must be carried out at initial
verification. IEE Guidance Note 3 suggests that;
It need not always be carried out on a periodic inspection if there are adequate records
from previous inspections and the ring has not been modified.
Method
Step 1
Measure and record the end to end resistance of each conductor in the ring:
Step 2
Connect the neutral conductor of one end of the ring to the line conductor of the other end
of the ring. Connect the remaining line conductor to the remaining neutral.
Measure and record the resistance between line and neutral at each socket on the ring
(including any spurs). This is most conveniently done with a test lead which connects the
ohmmeter directly into the socket with a plug. (Some makers supply such a lead.) This
also has the benefit that successful test results in Step 2 and Step 3 will confirm that the
socket has been correctly wired and the polarity is correct.
NB If testing through the front of the socket with a suitable lead an infinite reading will
be obtained unless the switch is on.
The result expected at each socket should be equal to one quarter of the sum of R11and
Rnn (as measured in Step 1).
Step3
Connect the circuit protective conductor of one end of the ring to the line conductor of the
other end of the ring. Connect the remaining line conductor to the remaining circuit
protective conductor.
Measure and record the resistance between line and circuit protective conductor(CPC) at
each socket on the ring (including any spurs). As before, this is most conveniently done
with a test lead which connects the ohmmeter directly into the socket with a plug.
The result expected at each socket should be equal to one quarter of the sum of R11 and
R22 (as measured in Step 1).
The following end-to-end readings were obtained when a ring was tested:
R11 = 0.6Ω
Rnn= 0.6Ω
R22=1.0
R11 and Rnn should be the same as the cross sectional areas of neutral and line
conductors should be the same in a single phase circuit. So the results look OK.
R22 may be higher than R11 or Rnn as it is common to use a CPC of smaller CSA. In
twin and earth cables used in standard ring circuits, line and neutral are 2.5 mm² and the
CPC is 1.5 mm². Here we should check that the CSA of the CPC is indeed smaller than
the CSA of line and neutral.
(R11+Rnn)/4
(0.6+ 0.6)/ 4
0.3 Ω
(R11 + R22 ) / 4
(0.6+1.0)/4
0.40 Ω
The actual readings obtained in Steps 2 and 3 were recorded in the table below:
1 0.31 0.41
2 0.3 0.4
3 0.32 0.41
The readings above are very close to the expected values so this ring is OK
2. Never use equipment with frayed cords, damaged insulation or broken plugs.
3. If you are working on any receptacle at your home then always turn off the mains. It is
also a good idea to put up a sign on the service panel so that nobody turns the main switch
ON by accident.
5. Electrical hazards include exposed energized parts and unguarded electrical equipment
which may become energized unexpectedly. Such equipment always carries warning signs
like “Shock Risk”. Always be observant of such signs and follow the safety rules
established by the electrical code followed by the country you’re in.
6. Always use appropriate insulated rubber gloves and goggles while working on any
branch circuit or any other electrical circuit.
7. Never try repairing energized equipment. Always check that it is de-energized first by
using a tester. When an electric tester touches a live or hot wire, the bulb inside the tester
lights up showing that an electrical current is flowing through the respective wire. Check all
the wires, the outer metallic covering of the service panel and any other hanging wires with
an electrical tester before proceeding with your work.
8. Never use an aluminum or steel ladder if you are working on any receptacle at height in
your home. An electrical surge will ground you and the whole electric current will pass
through your body. Use a bamboo, wooden or a fiberglass ladder instead.
10. Always check all your GFCI’s once a month. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)
is a RCD (Residual Current Device). They have become very common in modern homes,
especially damp areas like the bathroom and kitchen, as they help avoid electrical shock
hazards. It is designed to disconnect quickly enough to avoid any injury caused by over
current or short circuit faults.
7.2.4.5 Self-assessment
i) How is continuity test performed?
ii) How is measurement of earth resistance carried out using earth tester?
iii) Show how does a Ring circuit work?
iv) What is a Megger test?
v) Using an equation explain how do you calculate loop impedance?
7.2.4.6 Tools, Equipment, used in installation testing
• Multimeter/AVO meter
• Wattmeter
• Clamp meter
• Infrared camera
• Frequency meter
• Synchroscope
• Tachometer
• Tacho generator
• Laser meter
• Lux meter
7.2.4.7 References
Noel Williams, Jeffrey S. Sargent, 2014, Electrical Inspection Manual, 2014 Edition,
Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2014
Hari Mohan Johri, 2010, Electrical Installations in Building (Inglés) Tapa blanda,
edition 2010, K W Publishers Pvt Ltd
John Blaus, Dave Allan, 2008, Electrical installations NVQ and technical certificate
book 2, second edition, Pearson education limited
• Minor Works Certificate” for installation works not requiring a new circuit from the
distribution board.
• Domestic Installation Certificate” a reduced EIC tailored specifically for dwellings.
An Electrical Installation Certificate will be issued for all Installation work carried out by
contractor.
This is issued to the customer on the completion of any electrical installation works. It details the
type of works undertaken; any deviations from the regulations as listed in BS 7671, who
designed, installed and tested the works and when the next inspection is due.
This is used for the testing of existing electrical installations that have come up for their next
inspections or for installations that do not have a current installation certificate. It will detail
most if not all of the deviations that need to be addressed and will fall into four categories /
codes.
Code 1. Major deviation from the regulations, immediate remedial works are required
and the system is unsafe to remain in service in its present condition.
Code 2. Minor deviation from the regulations, remedial works are required to the
electrical installation, this should be carried out soon and in there, present
condition does not provide immediate danger to life or property.
This is used for small works like additional sockets or lights that are not in special locations. A
minor works certificate cannot be used for the provision of a new circuit.
Issuing authority
The certificate can be issued by accredited, competent persons, such as a registered electrician.
Figure 324 Electrical installation certificate
Issuing authority
Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA)
7.2.5.4 Learning Activities
Installation certificate
As a lead and qualified electrician, prepare an installation certificate for your junior who
have completed a new electrical installation.
7.2.5.5 Self-Assessment
i) What does an electrical certificate cover?
ii) What makes you a qualified electrician?
iii) What kind of degree does electrician need?
iv) How does one apply for ERC certificate in Kenya?
7.2.5.7 References
1, Noel Williams, Jeffrey S. Sargent, 2014, Electrical Inspection Manual, 2014 Edition, Jones
& Bartlett Learning, 2014
2, Hari Mohan Johri, 2010, Electrical Installations in Building (Inglés) Tapa blanda, edition
2010, K W Publishers Pvt Ltd
3, John Blaus, Dave Allan, 2008, Electrical installations NVQ and technical certificate book
2, second edition, Pearson education limited
7.2.5.8 Model Answers to self-assessment
i. When a Certificate of Electrical Compliance is Required
The certificate guarantees that the work undertaken in your state complies with both the
Electricity Safety Act and the Electricity Safety Regulations.
ii. You'll need to have an industry recognized level 3 qualification for example a level 3
diploma in electro technical services. Most people get into this career via an apprenticeship.
It normally takes two to four years to become fully qualified. GCSEs grade D or above,
including Math and English, would be an advantage.
iii. No college education is required to become an electrician, but significant training takes
place through an apprenticeship program, which provides in-class and hands-on instruction.
They can be employed in a number of electrical jobs or work freelance, both of which
mandate licence.
iv. Procedure
a) Open ERC Website ERC Website.
b) Click on the tab “online services”
c) Click “access our online portal”
d) For new users click on the “register” tab.
e) Click “apply for a new license”
f) For electricians select “individual” for contractors select “business/company”
g) Select the class of license you wish to apply for.
CHAPTER 8: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION MAINTENANCE
This unit covers the competencies required to carry out maintenance in electrical installation
systems. The maintenance includes scheduling, inspection of electrical system, preparation of list
of tools, material and equipment, system maintenance and tests.
8.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes
1. Prepare maintenance schedule
2. Inspect electrical installation
3. Perform installation servicing
4. Conduct installation tests
8.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Prepare maintenance schedule
8.2.1.1 Introduction to learning outcome
This learning outcome entails definition of maintenance, types of maintenance and procedures,
Scheduling maintenance based on service manuals as well as Safety precautions to be observed.
Information sheet
12.2.1.2 Performance standards
12.2.1.2.1 Type of the system to be maintained is identified
12.2.1.2.2 The maintenance type and scope are defined
12.2.1.2.3 Relevant manual/service instruction is referred to
12.2.1.2.4 Maintenance schedule is developed in accordance with the service checklist
12.2.1.2.5 Relevant maintenance procedures are referred to where applicable
12.2.1.3 information sheet
Within the context of maintenance, failure is defined as an inability to produce work in the
appropriate manner rather than inability to produce any work. Work carried out before failure is
said to be overhaul, or planned maintenance work while that carried out after failure is
emergency, breakdown or recovery work.
In order to come up with rational policies there is need to collect and analyze maintenance
information and data of the installations to actual times taken and work Involved when carrying
out maintenance tasks and also maintenance costs. From here a choice can then be made of one
or a combination of several of the following five types of maintenance policies
• Inspection
• Engineering
• Production
• Clerical
• Housekeeping
1. Inspection
Inspection is concerned with the routine scheduled checks of the plant, building and its
equipment and their conditions and to check or needed repairs. On intensively used production
equipment Inspection is much more frequent and detailed than function of housing, eg
production machines, motors and belting may be inspected once every week, boilers, furnaces
and compression equipment every month, overhead cranes may be Inspected every 4 to 6
months.
Facilities will normally be inspected at Intervals in order to determine whether services and\or
preventive maintenance is required is likely to be required in the rear future. Such work may
Involve visual inspection or the measurement certain of the physical characteristics of a facility.
It may Involve the whole facility or simply these parts, which are known to be liable to failure.
A report should be made after such inspection showing the condition of plants, probable reasons
for their development and suggested repairs and replacement. A succession of these reports often
indicates their weaknesses, which may be developing or may call for change in the inspection
interval.
2. Engineering
Engineering is concerned with developing changes and improvement in the plant building or the
operating equipment. Recurring breakdowns in certain equipment may suggest a need for
engineering by the maintenance department to determine what has caused the difficulty. After
the study, maintenance would then develop some modification to prevent or at least reduce such
future recurrences. In its engineering capacity, for example, maintenance might be deciding to
study and develop ways of directing sufficient illumination towards a particular job through
stronger fixture brazing arrangement.
3. Production
This puts into operation the ideas developed by the engineering phase. It is also concerned with
the performing work suggested by inspection function as well as performing other tasks such as
servicing and lubricating of equipment. The implementation aspects of maintenance are the part
that will the classified under this heading.
4. Clerical Work
This is largely keeping records of cost, time progress on jobs etc. It is also responsible for
maintaining records to the important features of the plant, equipment and other properties. These
may include records of property maps, complete building drawing. Complete writing and power
line drawings, maps of underground piping of water, steam, air and similar lines, complete layout
drawings of whole machinery, showing types, location and date purchased, spares parts required
etc., and records of all inspection, adjustment, repairs, and replacement by department,
equipment and date.
5. House keeping
As the name suggest, it means taking care of the detail of the upkeep and cleaning of the
buildings, equipment, tools and plant facilities.
These five functions are in essence the total duties of maintenance department.
Types of Maintenance
Preventive Maintenance
It is generally defined orderly routine of inspecting, cleaning, testing, furnishing, adjusting, and
lubricating machines. The main objective of this of program is to avoid or reduce the number of
avoidable breakdowns. It is a cores mechanical tear and wear.
A good preventive maintenance program provides for plant shut down during periods of
inactivity or least usage for purpose of major overhauls. This ensures continuity of operation and
lessens the danger of breakdowns at peak loads.
When preparing routine inspection schedule, it must be recognized that too frequent inspection
are a waste time and money and that insufficient inspection places equipment in virtual jeopardy.
The frequency of inspection should depend on the equipment’ contribution to profitable
production, its duty cycle, age, overload etc.
This program is a corrective measure carried out on an item before it fails prevent failure. In
most cases, the whole factory would be closed due to overhauls. It embraces type 1 and 3 of
maintenance policies.
C) A skilled maintenance force should be kept abreast of the latest techniques and developments
in the field. Files of equipment, manufacturer's bulletins and instructions should be available to
all maintenance personnel.
D) Only modern testing equipment, proper tools and latest methods should be used
(e) A carefully selected assortment of spare parts is essential to a good maintenance program and
represents insurance against prolonged shutdowns. Overstocking and understocking should be
avoided, since overstocking in excessive holding of funds as well as losses due to theft and
obsolescence of equipment, while under stocking leads to production in jeopardy if a break down
occurs.
F) Safe operation of machines and safety to personnel should the uppermost when planning any
maintenance program.
(b) To make plant equipment ad machines available and ready for use.
(C) To reduce the work content of maintenance Jobs that would be occasioned by breakdowns
(b) lt enables troubles to be detected in their early stages so that corrective action can be taken
before expensive damage is done
(c) The relatively high cost of down time due to equipment failure is avoided particularly in
processing plants, assembly.
(e) The total cost of down lime and emergency and clock repairs, which can be staggering are
minimized (f) The probability of law suits that may arise from Injury to personnel and failure to
meet commitments because of unavoidable break down are eliminated
(g) Leads to better spare parts control leading to minimum Inventory level and reduction in
maintenance.
Running Maintenance
This is part of preventive maintenance, which is done more routinely. It involves walking around
and inspecting machines through observation while in operation in order to ascertain loose parts
like nuts, screws, parts which by their nature require oiling, greasing, etc. and being able to take
the necessary action i.e. tightening or replacing loose nuts, rivets, clips, etc., oiling, greasing,
adjusting offset parts, etc.
This is where you have workers perform preventive maintenance activities. It’s based on the
machines they operate, rather than use separate personnel for the task. It is a system where
employees are given greater responsibility for quality productivity and the general functioning of
the system.
Predictive Maintenance
It is also called corrective, emergency or recovery work. itis typo 4 and 5 of maintenance
policies.
This is a maintenance, which is carried out on an item, which has failed in its service. It is repair
work, which is carried out through fault diagnosis, analysis and identification to establish its
position it is done by repairing the faulty part so as to restore its operation. Some of the worn out
or broken parts are removed and replaced.
Repair or breakdown maintenance is remedial; taking place alter an item has ceased to operate.
The need to repair is not necessarily that result of inefficient or Insufficient inspection, service or
preventive maintenance, since in some cases the cost of repairs will be less than the accumulated
cost of preventive work.
Causes of Breakdown
(a) It is expensive since It results in high cost of down time due to outage for during repair work
the equipment is scheduled out of service.
(b) It results to disruption of production and losses thereof, excessive delays or reduction in
output.
(c) Failure of machines may cause accident leading to losses and strained industrial relations.
(b) There is on production but overheads continue increasing the cost per unit.
Handling Breakdowns
The following are some are some major approaches used to deal with breakdown maintenances.
(a) Have standby or back up and that can be quickly pressed into service.
(b) Have inventories, of spare parts that can be installed as needed, thereby avoiding lead times
involved in ordering parts and buffer inventories, so that other equipment will be less likely to be
affected by short-term downtime of a particular piece of equipment.
(c) Have operators who are able to perform at least minor repairs on the equipment.
(d) Repair people who are well trained and readily available to diagnose and correct problem
with equipment.
1. Learning Outcome 2: Inspect electrical installation
b. A TT system-is a system having one point of the supply directly earthed and the exposed
conductive parts of installation are connected to an earth electrode which are connected to an
earth electrode which is electrically independent of the electrical installation being earthed.
Trunking (for cables) –a fabricated casing for cables normally of rectangular cross sectional of
which one side is removable or hinged to allow cable (s ) to be laid therein.
In order to make sure that this work is carried out satisfactorily the inspection
and test procedure must be carefully planned and carried out and the results
correctly documented.
We inspect material after the completion of work for three key reasons to
ensure:
• compliance with BS 7671
• compliance with the project specification (commissioning)
• that it is safe to use.
BS 7671 Part 6 states that every electrical installation shall, either during
construction, on completion, or both, be inspected and tested to verify, so far as is
reasonably practicable, that the requirements of the Regulations have been met. In
carrying out such inspection and test procedures, precautions must be taken to
ensure no danger is caused to any person or livestock and to avoid damage to
property and installed equipment.
BS 7671 requires that the following information be provided to the person carrying
out the inspection and test of an installation:
• the maximum demand of the installation expressed in amperes per phase
Once the installation is complete, we need to test it against the original specification
for the work. This is in order to check that the finished installation matches the
requirements laid out by the customer and is fit for use in the environment where it
will be used. The tasks involved in checking compliance with project specification
are as follows.
• Commissioning – includes all tests which require power to be available, e.g., the
measurement of the earth-fault loop impedance and functional testing of
residual current devices (RCDs).
Safe to use
The final act of the commissioning process is to ensure the safe and correct operation
of all circuits and equipment which have been installed, and that the customer’s
requirements have been met. This will also confirm that the installation works and,
more importantly, will work under fault conditions; after all, it is under fault
conditions that lives and property will be at risk. The testing of electrical installations
can cause some degree of danger; it is the responsibility of the person carrying out
the tests to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Health and Safety Executive
Guidance Note GS38 (Electrical test equipment for use by electricians) details
relevant safety procedures and should be observed in full.
• When using test instruments the following points will help to achieve a safe
working environment. The person carrying out the tests must have a
thorough understanding of the equipment being used and its rating.
• The person carrying out the tests must ensure that all safety procedures are
being followed, e.g. erection of warning notices and barriers where
appropriate.
• The person carrying out the tests should ensure that all instruments being
used conform to the appropriate British Standard, i.e. BS EN 61010 or older
instruments manufactured to BS 5458 (provided these are in good condition
and have been recently calibrated).
• The person carrying out the tests should check that test leads including probes
and clips are in good condition, are clean and have no cracked or broken
insulation. Where appropriate the requirements of GS38 should be observed,
including the use of fused test leads.
Purpose of a periodic inspection
• Confirm the safety of persons and livestock against the effects of electric shock
or burns
• Ensure protection against damage to property by fire or heat arising from an
installation defect
• Confirm that the installation has not been damaged and has not deteriorated
to the extent that it may impair safety
• Identify any defects in the installation or non-conformity with the current
edition of the Regulations that may cause danger.
The intervals between tests is determined by the following.
• Legislation requires that all installations must be maintained in a safe
condition and therefore must be periodically inspected and tested. Table 8.01
details the maximum period between inspections of various types of
installation.
• Licensing authorities, public bodies, insurance companies and other
authorities may require public inspection and testing of electrical installations.
• The installation must comply with BS 7671.
• It is also recommended that inspection and testing should occur when there is
a change of use of the premises, any alterations or additions to the original
installation, any significant change in the electrical loading of the installation,
and where there is reason to believe that damage may have been caused to the
installation.
Domestic or if change of occupancy 10 years
Highway power supplies 6 years
Churches 5 years
Commercial or if change of occupancy 5 years
Educational premises 5 years
Hotels 5 years
Hospitals 5 years
Laboratories 5 years
Offices 5 years
Public Houses 5 years
Shops 5 years
Village halls 5 years
Agricultural/Horticultural 3 years
Caravans 3 years
Cinemas 3 years
Emergency Lighting 3 years
Industrial 3 years
Leisure Complexes 3 years
Places of public entertainment 3 years
Theaters 3 years
Caravan parks 1 year
Fire alarms 1 year
Fish farms 1 year
Launderettes 1 year
Marinas 1 year
Petrol filling stations 1 year
Residential accommodation or if change of 1 year
occupancy
Swimming pool 1 year
Construction sites 3 Months
Table 3 Frequency of Inspection
In the case of an installation that is under constant supervision while in normal use,
such as a factory or other industrial premises, periodic inspection and testing may be
replaced by a system of continuous monitoring and maintenance of the installation,
provided that adequate records of such maintenance are kept.
When carrying out the design of an electrical installation, and particularly when
specifying the type of equipment to be installed, the designer should take into account
the likely quality of the maintenance programme and the periods between periodic
inspection and testing to be specified on the Electrical Installation Certificate. Both
Section 6 of the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations require information on the requirements for routine
checks and periodic inspections to be provided. The advice of the Health and Safety
Executive in their Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations
indicates that practical experience of an installation’s use may indicate the need for
an adjustment to the frequency of checks and inspections, i.e. more often or less
frequent depending on the likely deterioration of the installation during its normal
use. This would be a matter of judgement for the duty holder.
Routine Checks
Electrical installations should still be routinely checked in the intervening time
between periodic inspection and testing. In domestic premises it is likely that the
occupier will soon notice any damage or breakages to electrical equipment and will
take steps to have repairs carried out. In commercial or industrial installations, a
suitable reporting system should be available for users of the installation to report
any potential danger from deteriorating or damaged equipment. In addition to this, a
system of routine checks should be set up to take place between formal periodic
inspections. The frequency of these checks will depend entirely on the nature of the
premises and the usage of the installation. Routine checks are likely to include
activities such as those listed in Table
Activity Check
Defect reports Check that all reported defects have been
rectified and that the installation is safe.
Inspection • Breakages
• Wear or deterioration
• Signs of overheating
• Missing parts (screws & covers)
• Switch gear still accessible
• Enclosure door secure
• Labels still adequate(readable)
• Loose fittings
Operations Check operations of
• Switch gear (where reasonable)
• Equipment (switching on and off)
• RCD (using test buttons)
Table 4: Routine Checks
The recommended period between both routine checks and formal
inspections are given in Table above taken from IEE Guidance Note 3. The
requirements for such inspections are stated in BS 7671 Chapter 62 and
specify that all inspections should provide careful scrutiny of the installation
without dismantling or with only partial dismantling where absolutely
necessary. It is considered that the unnecessary dismantling of equipment or
disconnection of cables could produce a risk of introducing faults that were
not there in the first place.
In summary, the inspection should ensure that:
• the installation is safe
• the installation has not been damaged
• the installation has not deteriorated so as to impair safety
• any items that no longer comply with the Regulations or may cause danger are
identified.
In practical terms the inspector is carrying out a general inspection to ensure that
the installation is safe. However, the inspector is required to record and make
recommendations with respect to any items that no longer comply with the current
edition of the Regulations.
Statutory and Non-Statutory Documentation
• non-conducting location
• electrical separation.
10. Protective devices: Have they been set correctly for the load? If rewirable fuses
have been fitted, has the correct size of fuse wire been used? If a socket is to be
provided for outdoor equipment, has a 30 mA rated RCD been fitted?
11. Checks on documentation: Diagrams, schedules, charts, instructions and any
other information must be available if inspection and testing is to be carried
out in a satisfactory manner.
12. Checks on warning notices: These should be fixed to equipment operating in
excess of 250 volts where this voltage would not normally be expected.
Preparing for inspection
BS 7671 requires that the results of any periodic inspection and test should be
recorded on a periodic inspection and test report of the type illustrated in Figure
8.02. The report should include the following:
If any items are found which may cause immediate danger, these should be rectified
immediately. If this is not possible then they must be reported to a responsible
person without delay.
When inspecting older installations, which may have been installed in accordance
with a previous edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations, provided that all items which
do not conform to the present edition of BS 7671 are reported, the installation may
still be acceptable, provided that no risk of shock, fire or burns exists.
Details of the
client………………………………………………………………………
Name……………………………………………………………………………
…………
Address:…………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………….....
Occupier…………………………………………………………………………
……………….
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………..
Date of last
inspection……………………………………………………………………
Records
availability……………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
Limitations………………………………………………………………………
………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
This inspection has been carried out in accordance with BS 7671(IEE wiring
regulations). Cables concealed within trunking and conduit cables concealed
under floors buried underground installed in roof spaces or generally hidden
within the fabric of the building have not been inspected.
Next inspection
(we recommend that this installation should be further inspected and tested after
an interval of not more than………. months\years providing that any
observations requiring urgent are attended without delay.
Declaration
Name……………………………………Signature………………………………
………
Address……………………………………….
……………………………………………………
………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………….
Date………………………………………………………...
• all equipment and materials used in the installation are of the correct type
and comply with the appropriate British Standards or acceptable equivalent
• all parts of the installation have been correctly selected and installed
• no part of the installation is visibly damaged or otherwise defective
• the installation is suitable for the surrounding environmental conditions
Before carrying out the inspection and test of an installation, BS 7671 requires the
person carrying out the work to be provided with the following information:
✓ Anticipation of Danger
Identify any equipment that may be damaged if subjected to high-test
voltages as well as computer equipment as this may include safety systems
such as fire or intruder alarms that could well have electronic components
susceptible to test voltages.
✓ Joints and connections
Provided the switchgear and distribution boards are accessible as required
by the Regulations, then a full inspection of all conductor terminations
should be carried out and any signs of overheating or loose connections
should be investigated and included in the report. For lighting points and
socket outlets a suitable sample should be inspected in the same way
✓ Conductors
The means of identification of every conductor, including protective
conductors, should be checked and any damage or deterioration to the
conductors, their insulation, protective sheathing or armour should be
recorded. This inspection should include each conductor at every
distribution board within the installation and a suitable sample of lighting
points, switching points and socket outlets.
✓ Flexible cables and cords
Where flexible cables or cords form part of the fixed installation the
inspection should include:
• examination of the cable or cord for damage or deterioration
• examination of the terminations and anchor points for any defects
checking the correctness of the installation with regard to additional
mechanical protection or the application of heat resistant sleeving where
necessary.
✓ Switches
The IEE Guidance Notes 3 (Inspection & Testing), recommends that a
random sample of at least 10 per cent of all switching devices be given a
thorough internal visual inspection to assess their electrical and mechanical
condition. Should the inspection reveal excessive wear and tear or signs of
damage due to arcing or overheating then, unless it is obvious that the
problem is associated with that particular switch, the inspection should be
extended to include all remaining switches associated with the installation.
✓ Protection against thermal effects
the presence of fire barriers and seals should be checked wherever
reasonably practicable.
✓ Protection against Direct and Indirect contact
Separate Extra Low Voltage (SELV) is commonly used as a means of
protection against both direct and indirect contact. When inspecting this
type of system, the points to be checked include the use of a safety isolating
transformer, the need to keep the primary and secondary circuits separate
and the segregation of exposed conductive parts of the SELV system from
any connection with the earthing of the primary circuit or from any other
connection with earth.
✓ Basic Protection
Inspection of the installation should confirm that all the requirements of the
Regulations have been met with regard to basic protection against direct
contact with live conductors. This means checking to ensure there has been
no damage or deterioration of any of the insulation within the installation, no
removal of barriers or obstacles and no alterations to enclosures that may allow
access to live conductors.
✓ Fault Protection
The method used for fault protection must be established and recorded on
the Inspection Schedule. Where earthed equipotential bonding and automatic
disconnection of the supply is used, a check on the condition of the main
equipotential bonding conductor and the satisfactory connection of all other
protective conductors with earth are essential.
✓ Protective devices
A check must be made that each circuit is adequately protected with the
correct type, size and rating of fuse or circuit breaker. A check should also be
made that each protective device is suitable for the type of circuit it is
protecting and the earthing system employed, e.g. will the protective device
operate within the disconnection time allowed by the Regulations and is the
rating of the protective device suitable for the maximum prospective short
circuit current likely to flow under fault conditions?
✓ Enclosures and mechanical protection
The enclosures of all electrical equipment and accessories should be
inspected to ensure that they provide protection not less than IP2X or IPXXB,
and where horizontal top surfaces are readily accessible they should have a
degree of protection of at least IP4X. IP2X represents the average finger of
12mm diameter and 80mm in length and can be tested by a metal finger of these
dimensions. IP4X provides protection against entry by strips greater than
1.0mm thickness or solid objects exceeding 1.0mm in diameter.
Visual Inspection
Inspection Requirements
In order to meet the requirements for the inspection process we should also
include the checking of the following relevant items:
1. Requirements for basic and fault protection
Separate extra low voltage (SELV) is the most common method of providing
both basic and fault protection. Requirements for this type of system include:
• an isolated source of supply, e.g. a safety-isolating transformer to BS
3535 (also numbered BS EN 60742 1996)
• electrical separation, which means no electrical connection between the
SELV circuit and higher voltage systems
• no connection with earth or the exposed conductive parts or protective
conductors of other systems.
2. Specialized systems
3. Prevention of mutual detrimental influence
Account must be taken of the proximity of other electrical services of a
different voltage band and of non-electrical services and influences, e.g. fire
alarm and emergency lighting circuits must be separated from other cables
and from each other, and Band 1 and Band 2 circuits must not be present in
the same enclosure or wiring system unless they are either segregated or wired
with cables suitable for the highest voltage present. Mixed categories of
circuits may be contained in multicore cables, subject to certain requirements.
This could also mean checking that water taps have not been fitted directly
above a socket outlet. Band 1 circuits are circuits that are nominally extra-low
voltage, i.e. not exceeding 50 volts a.c. or 120 volts d.c., such as
telecommunications or data and signaling. Band 2 circuits are circuits that are
nominally low voltage, i.e. exceeding extra-low voltage but not exceeding
1000 volts a.c. between conductors or 600 volts a.c. between conductors and
earth.
4. Isolating and switching devices
BS 7671 requires that effective means suitably positioned and ready to
operate should be provided so that all voltage may be cut off from every
installation, every circuit within the installation and from all equipment, as
may be necessary to prevent or remove danger. This means that switches
and/or isolating devices of the correct rating must be installed as appropriate
to meet the above requirements. It may be advisable where practicable to
carry out an isolation exercise to check that effective isolation can be
achieved. This should include switching off, locking-off and testing to verify
that the circuit is dead and no other source of supply is present.
5. Under voltage Protection
Suitable precautions must be taken where a loss or lowering of voltage or a
subsequent restoration of voltage could cause danger. The most common
situation would be where a motor- driven machine stops due to a loss of
voltage and unexpectedly restarts when the voltage is restored (unless
precautions such as the installation of a motor starter containing a contactor
are employed). Regulations require that where unexpected restarting of a
motor may cause danger, the provision of a motor starter designed to prevent
automatic restarting must be provided.
6. Selection of equipment appropriate to external influences
Items to be considered are ambient temperature, presence of external heat
sources, presence of water, likelihood of corrosion, ingress of foreign bodies,
impact, vibration, flora, fauna, radiation, building use and structure.
7. Access to switchgear equipment
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and BS 7671 state that every piece of
equipment that requires operation or attention must be installed so that
adequate and safe means of access and working space are provided.
8. Presence of Drawings, Charts and other similar information
9. Erection Methods
To ensure that all the requirements of the Regulations have been met, inspection
checklists should be drawn up and used as appropriate to the type of installation
being inspected. Examples of suitable checklists are given in Table
Correctly earthed
Conditions likely to be encountered taken account of, i.e. suitable for the
environment
Correct IP rating
No sharp edges on cable entries, screw heads etc. which could cause damage to
cables
Cooker control unit sited to one side and low enough for accessibility and to prevent
trailing flexes across the radiant plates
Complies with appropriate British Standard and is shuttered for household and
similar installations
Sockets not installed in bath or shower zones unless they are shaver-type socket or
SELV
Circuit protective conductor connected directly to the earthing terminal of the socket
outlet on asheathed wiring installation
Earthing tail provided from the earthed metal box to the earthing terminal of the
socket outlet
Socket outlets not used to supply a water heater with uninsulated elements
Lighting controls (tick if satisfactory)
No more than one flexible cord unless designed for multiple pendants
Holes in ceiling above ceiling rose made good to prevent spread of fire
Band 1 circuits partitioned from band 2 circuits, or insulated for the highest voltage
present
Common outlets for band 1 and band 2 circuits provided with screens, barriers or
partitions
Earthed
Joints mechanically sound, and of adequate earth continuity with links fitted
Table 5.
Inspection checklist
1.2.1.4 Learning Activities
Self-assessment
1. There are various documents that are relevant to the Inspection and Testing of an
installation. State
a) one statutory item of documentation
b) two non-statutory items of documentation.
2. List the first three tests that should be carried out during a periodic inspection and test of an
installation
3. State THREE circumstances that would require a periodic inspection and test to becarried
out on an installation.
4. The electrical installation in a small food retail outlet is scheduled for a periodic
inspection andtest for local authority licensing.
a) Describe how the safe isolation of the single-phase distribution board located in the
officearea is to be carried out.
b) Explain why the sequence of testing for this periodic inspection may be different to
that givenin BS 7671 for initial verification.
5. A periodic inspection is to be undertaken in a large community Centre
which isopen to the public.
i) State what must be agreed with the client and recorded before
any work isundertaken.
ii) State who else must be considered by the inspector in respect to their
safety whilstcarrying out this work.
iii) State three actions the inspector must take to ensure the safety of people
using thebuilding during the inspection and testing process.
6. One of the competence requirement identified in guidance note 3 (GN3, is for the
inspector to have sound knowledge and experience relevant to the nature of the installation
being inspected and tested. List three other competence requirement given in GN3
7. List three items related to the nature of the supply which should be made available to an
inspector
8. Explain briefly inspection and testing of a new electrical installation should be carried out
9. State three items would need to be inspected during the first fix construction of a PVC
conduit installation for lighting in general purpose workshop
10. State the most appropriate human sense used to identify
a) Terminals are correctly tightened
b) Terminals are correctly identified
c) That a motor has been overloaded
Model Answers to self assessment
a) For the TNC-S supplied circuits electrical installation certificate, schedule of
inspection, schedule of test results.
For the TT supplied caravan pitches, Electrical installation certificate.
Schedule of inspection, schedule of test results.
b)
i)Electricity at work regulation
Duty holder
ii)
The duty holder will be competent person
iii)
Ensuring no danger to person’s livestock property to compare the test results
iv)
with design criteria to form a view on the state of installation and advice on
remedial works to immediately inform the installation owner (and other
interested partner’s) if dangerous situation exists.
c. Nominal voltage frequency Ze.
1. Electricity at Work act ‘89 or Health & Safety at Work Act ‘74
BS 767
On Site Guide
Guidance Notes etc.
2 Continuity of CPC
Polarity
Earth loop impedance
3 End of license (Public buildings)
End of insurance period
Change of ownership
End of recommended period since last test
4 a) Safe Isolation Procedure
5 Further safety procedures may be set in place. Permits to work come into their own when
dealing with an electrical piece of equipment or installation and are part of an overall strategyfor
safety, called a ‘safe system of work’.
b) The tests need not be carried out in the order as for the initial verification procedure
asthe installation will have been in operation for some time.
The same range and level of testing as for initial testing is not necessarily
required, orindeed possible. Installations that have been previously tested and for
which there arecomprehensive records of test results may not need the same
degree of testing as installations for which no such records exist.
The person carrying out the testing should decide which of the above
tests areappropriate by using their experience and knowledge of the
installation being inspected and tested and by consulting any available
records.
The inspector will need to set a sample size for testing. Where a sample test
indicatesresults significantly different to those previously recorded, further
investigation is necessary. Also, if during the course of testing a sample,
significant errors were foundthat would suggest that the same problems may exist
in untested items, then the inspector has to take appropriate action.
This action needs to be either increasing the sampling or referring back to the
client; itmay be that the inspector recommends that 100 per cent testing is carried
out in that area.
2 i) Prior to carrying out the inspection, the inspector will need to meet with
the client or the client’s representative to outline the scope and nature of the work
required and to highlight likely items that require isolation. That is the degree of
disconnection which will be acceptable before planning the detailed inspectionand
testing must be agreed. Also, the scope, that is, the extent and limitations of the
periodic inspection must be agreed, that is, what is to be covered andwhat is not
covered.
7 Smell
Touch
Sight
Learning Outcome 3: Perform installation servicing
Presence of storage batteries
Since an emergency occurring in a building may cause the mains supply to fail, the emergency
lighting should be supplied from a source which is independent from the main supply. A
battery’s ability to provide its output instantly makes it a very satisfactory source of standby
power. In most commercial, industrial and public service buildings housing essential services,
the alternative power supply would be from batteries. The emergency lighting supply must have
an adequate capacity and rating for the specific ed duration of time (IEE Regulation 313.2). BS
5266 and BS EN 1838 states that after a battery is discharged by being called into operation for
its specified duration of time, it should be capable of once again operating for the specified
duration of time following a recharge period of no longer than 24 hours. The duration of time for
which the emergency lighting should operate will be specified by a statutory authority but is
normally 1–3 hours. The British Standard states that escape lighting should operate for a
minimum of 1 hour.
The batteries used for the emergency supply should be suitable for this purpose. The British
Standard recommends that the full load should be carried by the emergency supply for at least 1
hour in every 6 months. After testing, the emergency system must be carefully restored to its
normal operative state. A record should be kept of each item of equipment and the date of each
test by a qualified or responsible person. It may be necessary to produce the record as evidence
of satisfactory compliance with statutory legislation to a duly authorized person. Self-contained
units are suitable for small installations of up to about 12 units. The batteries contained within
these units should be replaced about every 5 years, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Storage batteries are secondary cells. A secondary cell has the advantage of being rechargeable.
If the cell is connected to a suitable electrical supply, electrical energy is stored on the plates of
the cell as chemical energy. When the cell is connected to a load, the chemical energy is
converted to electrical energy.
A lead-acid cell is a secondary cell. Each cell delivers about 2 V, and when six cells are
connected in series a 12 V battery is formed. A lead-acid battery is constructed of lead plates
which are deeply ribbed to give maximum surface area for a given weight of plate. The plates are
assembled in groups, with insulating separators between them. The separators are made of a
porous insulating material, such as wood or ebonite, and the whole assembly is immersed in a
dilute sulphuric acid solution in a plastic container. The capacity of a cell to store charge is a
measure of the total quantity of electricity which it can cause to be displaced around a circuit
after being fully charged. It is stated in ampere-hours, abbreviation Ah, and calculated at the 10-
hour rate which is the steady load current which would completely discharge the battery in 10
hours. Therefore, a 50 Ah battery will provide a steady current of 5A for 10 hours.
Having successfully diagnosed the electrical fault and carried out the necessary repairs or having
completed any work in the electro technical industry, we come to the final practical task, leaving
the site in a safe and clean condition and the removal of any waste material. This is an important
part of company’s ‘good customer relationships’ with the client and having a good attitude to
health and safety, working conscientiously and neatly, keeping passageways clear and regularly
tidying up the workplace is the sign of a good and competent craftsman. But what do you do
with the rubbish that the working environment produces? Well:
• All the packaging material for electrical fittings and accessories usually goes into either
your employer’s skip or the skip on site designated for that purpose.
• All the off-cuts of conduit, trunking and tray also go into the skip.
• In fact, most of the general site debris will probably go into the skip and the waste
disposal company will take the skip contents to a designated local council landfill area
for safe disposal. The part coils of cable and any other reusable leftover lengths of
conduit, trunking or tray will be taken back to your employer’s stores area. Here it will
be stored for future use and the returned quantities deducted from the costs allocated to
that job.
• What goes into the skip for normal disposal into a landfill site is usually a matter of
common sense. However, some substances require special consideration and disposal.
We will now look at asbestos and large quantities of used fluorescent tubes which are
classified as ‘special waste’ or ‘hazardous waste’.
Asbestos is a mineral found in many rock formations. When separated it becomes a fluffy,
fibrous material with many uses. In the buildings where it was installed some 40 years ago, when
left alone, it does not represent a health hazard, but those buildings are increasingly becoming in
need of renovation and modernization. It is in the dismantling and breaking up of these asbestos
materials that the health hazard increases. Asbestos is a serious health hazard if the dust is
inhaled. The tiny asbestos particles find their way into delicate lung tissue and remain embedded
for life, causing constant irritation and eventually, serious lung disease. If asbestos is present in
situations or buildings where you are expected to work, it should be removed by a specialist
contractor before your work commences. Specialist contractors, who will wear fully protective
suits and use breathing apparatus, are the only people who can safely and responsibly carry out
the removal of asbestos. They will wrap the asbestos in thick plastic bags and store them
temporarily in a covered and locked skip. This material is then disposed of in a special landfill
site with other toxic industrial waste materials and the site monitored by the local authority for
the foreseeable future.
Removing the old fluorescent fittings hanging on chains or fixed to beams and installing a
suspended ceiling and an appropriate number of recessed modular fluorescent fittings. These
fittings are made of sheet steel, a couple of plastic lamp holders, a little cable, a starter and
ballast. All of these materials can go into the ordinary skip. However, the fluorescent tubes
contain a little mercury and fluorescent powder with toxic elements, which cannot be disposed of
in the normal land fill sites. Hazardous Waste Regulations were introduced in July 2005 and
under these regulations lamps and tubes are classified as hazardous. The environmentally
responsible way to dispose of fluorescent lamps and tubes is to recycle them. The process
usually goes like this:
• Your employer arranges for the local electrical wholesaler to deliver a plastic waste
container of an appropriate size for the job.
• Expired lamps and tubes are placed whole into the container, which often has a grating
inside to prevent the tubes breaking when being transported.
• When the container is full of used lamps and tubes, you telephone the electrical
wholesaler and ask them to pick up the filled container and deliver it to one of the
specialist recycling centers.
• Your electrical company will receive a ‘Duty of Care Note’ and full recycling documents
which ought to be fi led safely as proof that the hazardous waste was recycled safely.
• The charge is approximately 50p for each 1800mm tube and this cost is passed on to the
customer through the final account.
NB:
Insulation resistance.
This is the resistance in ohms between the live parts of the installation and earth, measured
through insulating covering of the conductors, etc. In the case of metal-covered wiring or conduit
wiring, the term 'earth' means in practice the metallic covering or conduit which itself is
connected directly to earth. Additionally, the insulation resistance is measured between lines,
that is, between the opposite poles of the installation with lamps or other apparatus disconnected
and switches on.
The difference between insulation and conductor resistance is shown in the sketches (Figs. 93
and 94). In measuring the resistance of a
conductor AB, the resistance is measured along the wire from end to end, and increase of
conductor length means increase of resistance. In measuring the insulation resistance of the
conductor, the measurement is made from the conductor outwards.
The formula for conductor resistance is R =pl where / is the length a of the conductor, a is the
cross-sectional area, and p is the resistivity of the conductor material. Using a similar formula for
insulation (it is sufficiently true for the purposes of this argument), R' = p'l/a’ the thickness of the
insulation, a' is proportional to the length of the wire, and p' is the resistivity of the insulating
material.
Conduit or metallic covering
Thus, if an insulated wire is increased in length, its conductor resistance increases while its
insulation resistance decreases. Therefore, the longer the conductor the less will be its insulation
resistance.
Inspection of installations.
During the fitting of the various parts of an installation some form of inspection by the electrical
contractor or his staff is both desirable and necessary, Small faults could be brought to light and
corrected thus preventing waste of time during the final testing session. Alternatively, a careful
inspection should be made immediately prior to the testing.
Regulations. I.EE.
Regulations EI to E 14 deal with the testing and inspection of installations. These regulations are
discussed below, and methods of complying with them are described in detail.
Insulation resistance tests, Regulations E 6 and E 9. The various tests of an installation which
follow are to be made before the installation is connected to the supply, For the insulation
resistance tests large installations may be divided into groups of not less than 50 outlets. For this
purpose, the expression outlet includes every point (position for attachment of lamp, lighting
fitting, or current-using appliance) and every switch and socket-outlet. A socket-outlet, appliance
or lighting fitting incorporating a switch is regarded as one outlet.
Testing voltage. The voltage used for insulation resistance tests shall be a direct current voltage
not less than twice the normal direct current voltage, or in the case of alternating current not less
than twice the normal rms. voltage, but it need not exceed 500 V for medium-voltage circuits.
Thus a 500-V insulation resistance tester is sufficient for general purposes.
The test shall be made with all fuse links in place, all switches including the main switch cloud
and, except where earth-concentric wiring is concerned, all poles or phases electrically connected
together,
If required, all lamps and appliances may he removed during the test, in which case each piece of
apparatus should be separately tested, the measured insulation to earth shall be not less than 1
MΩ. The insulation
S. W S.W TO
NEXT
POINT
LAMPS
SWITCH CLOSED
COMPANY’S
MAIN SWITCH
OFF
EARTH TERMINAL
resistance of each piece of apparatus measured separately shall be not less than 0-5 MM to earth
(between live parts and frame), and 05MΩ between poles or phases. The sketch (Fig.) shows the
connections for testing the insulation resistance to earth of a completed 2-wire installation with
lamps and other apparatus disconnected. The wires of both poles of the supply to the main switch
are twisted together and connected to the 'line' terminal of the ohmmeter. The 'earth' terminal of
the ohmmeter is connected to the consumer's earthing terminal. The three terminals of 2-way
switches should temporarily be connected together.
This test is made between all the conductors connected to any one pole or phase of the supply,
and all conductors connected to any other pole or phase of the supply. The insulation resistance
is to be not less than 1 MΩ.
All lamps should be removed, all current-using apparatus dis connected and all local switches
controlling lamps or apparatus closed. When the removal of lamps and apparatus is not
practicable, all local switches should be open. The test does not apply to earthed concentric
wiring systems. Figure 97 gives the connections for the test of a 2-wire installation. Only one test
is required in this case.
Electrical installation work
For 3 and 4-wire installations more than one between phases test is necessary. A 3-wire direct
current installation will require three tests:
L.F
POINT
SWITCH CLOSED
FUSES IN
LAMPS OUT
PHASE OR OUTER
NEUTRAL
HEATERS ETC
DISCONNECTED
Figure 4.
A 3-wire 3-phase installation will also require three tests:
1. three separate tests between pairs of lines, R-Y, R-B, and Y-B.
y wIRE
NEUTRAL
3-WIRE
d.‹x
3 - PHASE
3 - WIRE
3 - PHASE
4 - WIRE
(d)
On p. 12 it was noted that by I.E.E. Regulation all single-pole or linked switches were to be fitted
in the outer or phase conductor. If the proper colored cable is used throughout the installation,
i.e., in a2-wi installation, red for switch feeds and switch wires and black for light feeds, no
confusion should arise.
Paying for polarity with circuit alive. The simplest way to test is with the circuit alive, switched
on the main switch, All single-pole switches would be ON', their covers removed, all lamps
should be out, and other Neutral should be disconnected, If the single-pole switches are in the
Correct conductor, the phase or outer conductor, they will be alive. A portable lamp with a pair
of long insulated leads is used. The leads Should terminate in insulated test prods in the interests
of safety. The end of one prod is connected to the known earthed conductor at the main switch,
and the other prod is touched to the single-pole switch terminals. The test lamp should light.
Should the switch be in the wrong or earthed conductor, the test lamp will not light as the switch
will be at earth potential. This procedure is repeated at all the switches in turn. In the case of 2-
way switches, the three terminals of the switches should be temporarily connected together for
the test. In a large installation the work can be sectionalized by checking the polarity of the
busbars at the distribution boards and working from these positions instead of running the test
lead back to the main switch. The test should be extended to verify that the three-pin socket
outlets are properly connected, that is, with the terminal marked 'L' connected to the outer or
phase conductor,
In testing screw-type lamp holders to ensure that the outer contact is earthed, one prod should be
touched to the live side of the main switch and the other prod to the outer contact of the lamp
holder, when the test lamp should light. It must be remembered that the test is being made on a
live circuit, and care must be taken, otherwise unpleasant or dangerous shocks may be sustained;
Figures above illustrate the tests.
Testing for polarity with circuit dead. Testing instruments are available by which the polarity of
the circuit switches can be tested before the installation is connected to the supply. In its simplest
form the instrument consists of a direct-reading ohmmeter and a small dry battery contained in a
small case, with two terminals to which a pair of test leads with or without testing spikes may be
connected. Figure 103 illustrates the test. The main switch and fuses are out, lamps and other
apparatus are out or disconnected, and the single-pole switches are on. One lead of the polarity
tester is connected to the phase or outer conductor at the outgoing side of the main fuses. The
other lead is touched to the terminals of the single-pole switches in turn. Provided the polarity is
correct, the instrument reading will be less than I 2 normally, since the instrument is measuring
the resistance of the circuit wiring from the main fuse to the switch being tested. If the single-
pole switch is in the
SWITCHES ON
CONDUCTOR
METER
LAMPS
OR PHASE
`
incorrect conductor the instrument reading will be a maximum, i.e., infinity. The polarity of the
3-pin socket outlet is tested in a similar way.
LAMPS OUT
YY FUSES OUT
MAIN SWITCH OPEN
NEUTRAL
PHASE OR OUTER
Earth-fault loop testing. Regulation E 4 requires that when earth leakage protection relies on
the operation of fuses or excess-current circuit-breakers, the effectiveness of earthing shall be
tested by means of an earth-loop impedance test.
CONSUMER'S TERMINALS
EARTH
PATH
The diagram Figure above shows the path of leakage current from an earth fault on a 2-wire final
sub-circuit. The path of the leakage current is from the earth fault (F) along the earth-continuity
conductor to the consumer's earthing terminal and thence to the consumer's earth electrode. From
here the fault current passes through the general mass of earth to the supply authority's earth
electrode at the supply trans former, through the transformer winding and along the line through
the consumer's wiring to the fault. This path is called the line earth loop, and it is this loop which
is to be tested, The Regulations allow the neutral-earth loop to be tested as an alternative.
A line-earth tester such as the Megger line-earth tester would be used. The operation of this
instrument is as follows:
The instrument passes a short duration current through the loop, the value of the current depending
upon the impedance of the loop as well as upon the voltage of the tester. The current passes through
10 resistors in series with the loop, and the voltage drop across it is measured by means of a ballistic
instrument which is calibrated to read directly the loop impedance in ohms. This instrument
incorporates a voltmeter and a voltage selection switch, enabling it to be used on supplies of
different line-neutral voltages.
Regulation E 3 requires that every earth-continuity conductor shall be tested in accordance with
Item 1 of Appendix 6. Four methods are given:
All apparatus must be disconnected from the ring. The ring is the disconnected at the distribution
board so that the four ends of the ring conductors are exposed. Touching the continuity tester
across the two ends of the line conductor will give a very low reading, showing continuity. The
neutral conductor is checked in a similar way.
To check the conductors in the spurs, the ring should remain open with ends exposed. A
continuity test would be made across line end neutral from the end socket-outlet on any spur,
when the indication should be infinite resistance. This could be repeated at every spur end. If one
pair of exposed wires, line and neutral, at the exposed ends be now temporarily short-circuited,
continuity readings from each spur end should show very low resistance, thus verifying
continuity.
The earth-continuity conductors could be checked for continuity at the same time.
Completion certificate
On completion of a new installation or of a major alteration, and after inspection and testing as
described, the installation contractor is required to give a Completion Certificate. This certificate,
gives certain details of the installation including the number of appliances, etc., the method of
earthing, and the value of the earth-loop impedance. The certificate states that the work has been
done in accordance with Regulations. It also recommends periodic testing and inspection.
Inspection certificate
When the installation is re-inspected and tested at a later date, an inspection certificate is
completed and handed to the consumer. It gives the results of the full range of tests of the
installation.
Practical activities
The test results shown in figure below were obtained from a ring final circuit continuity test.
State whether reading for each socket are satisfactory or unsatisfactory. give reason for those
reading unsatisfactory.
A 0.4 0.41
C 0.5 0.4
D 0.4 No reading
E 0.41 0.41
Self-assessment
1.
a. Describe in details the test procedure for insulation resistance on the installation
b. The test results indicate an overall value of 1.5Ω. state with reasons what actions if
any should be taken
2. A loop impedance test on the lighting circuit is conducted and 6A type B m.c.b trips
repeatedly
a. Explain why this is the case
Explain why the problem may be overcome in order to conduct the test
1. Explain briefly the action to be taken if the insulation resistance test of an installation
indicates an overall value of 1.25 M-ohms
3. A ring final circuit continuity test revealed incorrect polarity on three socket outlets. The
results were
L to N L to c.p.c.
Socket A Open circuit Correct
Socket B Correct Open circuit
Socket C Open circuit Open Circuit
1. As the line, neutral and c.p.c loops are0.8Ω, the outlet readings should be in the order of 0.4Ω
+0.05Ω
b) this could indicate a latent defect. Each circuit should be tested individually and its insulation
resistance should be greater than 2Ω.
2.a. As loop impedance tester delivers high current for a short time. It is not.
-then Z
identified at termination
1. Each circuit should be separately tested & its insulation resistance should be greater than 2
MΩ.
2. L & C.P.C.
L&N
All or N & C.P.C.
3.
a) . insulation resistance tester
b) 500 V dc
c) 2 MΩ
To prove the correct polarity of the incoming supply
Approved voltage indicator
4.a. Test across the line and neutral, voltage should be present
c. Test across the neutral and earth conductors, no voltage should be present
5.a. the remote end of the circuit (point furthest away from the source of supply)
b. measured value
c. the R1+R2 value obtained using a d.c test and does not take into account the impedance (a.c
resistance) of the circuit conductors. Also when taking a reading of Ze parallel paths may be
present which would lead to lower reading than may otherwise be calculating using the values
of Ze and R1+R2
This unit covers the competencies required to carry out maintenance in electrical installation
systems. The maintenance includes scheduling, inspection of electrical system, preparation of list
of tools, material and equipment, system maintenance and tests.
8.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes
13. Prepare maintenance schedule
14. Inspect electrical installation
15. Perform installation servicing
16. Conduct installation tests
8.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Prepare maintenance schedule
8.2.1.1 Introduction to learning outcome
This learning outcome entails definition of maintenance, types of maintenance and procedures,
Scheduling maintenance based on service manuals as well as Safety precautions to be observed.
Information sheet
16.2.1.2 Performance standards
16.2.1.2.1 Type of the system to be maintained is identified
16.2.1.2.2 The maintenance type and scope are defined
16.2.1.2.3 Relevant manual/service instruction is referred to
16.2.1.2.4 Maintenance schedule is developed in accordance with the service checklist
16.2.1.2.5 Relevant maintenance procedures are referred to where applicable
16.2.1.3 Information sheet
Maintenance is the keeping of equipment, building and services of the plant in satisfactory repair
and operating conditions.
Importance of Maintenance
In order that there should be some control over the work of maintenance, four rules should be
rigidly enforced.
• All requests for maintenance work must be made preferably in writing) to one central
control point (maintenance supervisor). No work should be carried out without the
knowledge and approval of the maintenance supervisor. Lack strict adherence to this rule
will allow a waste of skilled staff and inability to keany schedule of essential work.
• No maintenance work should be undertaken by productive staff unless the operator is
seconded to the maintenance department.
• Maintenance stores must be as carefully controlled as any other of the company's
stores,as the absence of a vital, part can lead to an expensive plant shut down.
• Records of work carried out, including a statement of materials required, should be kept
as those assist in selling rational maintenance, replacement and depreciation policies
Maintenance Policies
Within the context of maintenance, failure is defined as an inability to produce work in the
appropriate manner rather than inability to produce any work. Work carried out before failure
is said to be overhaul, or planned maintenance work while that carried out after failure is
emergency, breakdown or recovery work.
In order to come up with rational policies there is need to collect and analyze maintenance
information and data of the installations to actual times taken and work Involved when
carrying out maintenance tasks and also maintenance costs. From here a choice can then be
made of one or a combination of several of the following five types of maintenance policies
• Inspection
• Engineering
• Production
• Clerical
• Housekeeping
6. Inspection
Inspection is concerned with the routine scheduled checks of the plant, building and its
equipment and their conditions and to check or needed repairs. On intensively used
production equipment Inspection is much more frequent and detailed than function of
housing, eg production machines, motors and belting may be inspected once every week,
boilers, furnaces and compression equipment every month, overhead cranes may be
Inspected every 4 to 6 months.
A report should be made after such inspection showing the condition of plants, probable
reasons for their development and suggested repairs and replacement. A succession of these
reports often indicates their weaknesses, which may be developing or may call for change in
the inspection interval.
7. Engineering
Engineering is concerned with developing changes and improvement in the plant building or
the operating equipment. Recurring breakdowns in certain equipment may suggest a need for
engineering by the maintenance department to determine what has caused the difficulty.
After the study, maintenance would then develop some modification to prevent or at least
reduce such future recurrences. In its engineering capacity, for example, maintenance might
be deciding to study and develop ways of directing sufficient illumination towards a
particular job through stronger fixture brazing arrangement.
8. Production
This puts into operation the ideas developed by the engineering phase. It is also concerned
with the performing work suggested by inspection function as well as performing other tasks
such as servicing and lubricating of equipment. The implementation aspects of maintenance
are the part that will the classified under this heading.
9. Clerical Work
This is largely keeping records of cost, time progress on jobs etc. It is also responsible for
maintaining records to the important features of the plant, equipment and other properties.
These may include records of property maps, complete building drawing. Complete writing
and power line drawings, maps of underground piping of water, steam, air and similar lines,
complete layout drawings of whole machinery, showing types, location and date purchased,
spares parts required etc, and records of all inspection, adjustment, repairs, and replacement
by department, equipment and date.
As the name suggest, it means taking care of the detail of the upkeep and cleaning of the
buildings, equipment, tools and plant facilities.
These five functions are in essence the total duties of maintenance department.
Types of Maintenance
Preventive Maintenance
A good preventive maintenance program provides for plant shut down during periods of
inactivity or least usage for purpose of major overhauls. This ensures continuity of operation
and lessens the danger of breakdowns at peak loads.
When preparing routine inspection schedule, it must be recognized that too frequent
inspection are a waste time and money and that insufficient inspection places equipment in
virtual jeopardy. The frequency of inspection should depend on the equipment’ contribution
to profitable production, its duty cycle, age, overload etc.
This program is a corrective measure carried out on an item before it fails prevent failure. In
most cases, the whole factory would be closed due to overhauls. It embraces type 1 and 3 of
maintenance policies.
A) The most important phase of a preventive maintenance program is the recording and
interpretation of data pertinent to each piece of equipment.
C) A skilled maintenance force should be kept abreast of the latest techniques and
developments in the field. Files of equipment, manufacturer's bulletins and instructions
should be available to all maintenance personnel.
D) Only modern testing equipment, proper tools and latest methods should be used
(e) A carefully selected assortment of spare parts is essential to a good maintenance program
and represents insurance against prolonged shutdowns. Overstocking and understocking
should be avoided, since overstocking in excessive holding of funds as well as losses due to
theft and obsolescence of equipment, while under stocking leads to production in jeopardy if
a break down occurs.
F) Safe operation of machines and safety to personnel should the uppermost when planning
any maintenance program.
(b) To make plant equipment ad machines available and ready for use.
(C) To reduce the work content of maintenance Jobs that would be occasioned by
breakdowns
(c) The relatively high cost of down time due to equipment failure is avoided particularly in
processing plants, assembly.
(e) The total cost of down lime and emergency and clock repairs, which can be staggering are
minimized (f) The probability of law suits that may arise from Injury to personnel and failure
to meet commitments because of unavoidable break down are eliminated
(g) Leads to better spare parts control leading to minimum Inventory level and reduction in
maintenance.
Running Maintenance
This is part of preventive maintenance, which is done more routinely. It involves walking
around and inspecting machines through observation while in operation in order to ascertain
loose parts like nuts, screws, parts which by their nature require oiling, greasing, etc. and
being able to take the necessary action i.e. tightening or replacing loose nuts, rivets, clips,
etc., oiling, greasing, adjusting offset parts, etc.
This is where you have workers perform preventive maintenance activities. It’s based on the
machines they operate, rather than use separate personnel for the task. It is a system where
employees are given greater responsibility for quality productivity and the general
functioning of the system.
Predictive Maintenance
It is also called corrective, emergency or recovery work. itis typo 4 and 5 of maintenance
policies.
This is a maintenance, which is carried out on an item, which has failed in its service. It is
repair work, which is carried out through fault diagnosis, analysis and identification to
establish its position it is done by repairing the faulty part so as to restore its operation. Some
of the worn out or broken parts are removed and replaced.
Repair or breakdown maintenance is remedial; taking place alter an item has ceased to
operate. The need to repair is not necessarily that result of inefficient or Insufficient
inspection, service or preventive maintenance, since in some cases the cost of repairs will be
less than the accumulated cost of preventive work.
Causes of Breakdown
(a) It is expensive since It results in high cost of down time due to outage for during repair
work the equipment is scheduled out of service.
(b) It results to disruption of production and losses thereof, excessive delays or reduction in
output.
(c) Failure of machines may cause accident leading to losses and strained industrial relations.
(b) There is on production but overheads continue increasing the cost per unit.
The following are some are some major approaches used to deal with breakdown
maintenances.
(a) Have standby or back up and that can be quickly pressed into service.
(b) Have inventories, of spare parts that can be installed as needed, thereby avoiding lead
times involved in ordering parts and buffer inventories, so that other equipment will be less
likely to be affected by short-term downtime of a particular piece of equipment.
(c) Have operators who are able to perform at least minor repairs on the equipment.
(d) Repair people who are well trained and readily available to diagnose and correct problem
with equipment.
2. Learning Outcome 2: Inspect electrical installation
b. A TT system-is a system having one point of the supply directly earthed and the exposed
conductive parts of installation are connected to an earth electrode which are connected to an
earth electrode which is electrically independent of the electrical installation being earthed.
Trunking (for cables) –a fabricated casing for cables normally of rectangular cross sectional of
which one side is removable or hinged to allow cable (s ) to be laid therein.
In order to make sure that this work is carried out satisfactorily the inspection
and test procedure must be carefully planned and carried out and the results
correctly documented.
We inspect material after the completion of work for three key reasons to
ensure:
• compliance with BS 7671
• compliance with the project specification (commissioning)
• that it is safe to use.
BS 7671 Part 6 states that every electrical installation shall, either during
construction, on completion, or both, be inspected and tested to verify, so far as is
reasonably practicable, that the requirements of the Regulations have been met. In
carrying out such inspection and test procedures, precautions must be taken to
ensure no danger is caused to any person or livestock and to avoid damage to
property and installed equipment.
BS 7671 requires that the following information be provided to the person carrying
out the inspection and test of an installation:
• the maximum demand of the installation expressed in amperes per phase
Once the installation is complete, we need to test it against the original specification
for the work. This is in order to check that the finished installation matches the
requirements laid out by the customer and is fit for use in the environment where it
will be used. The tasks involved in checking compliance with project specification
are as follows.
• Commissioning – includes all tests which require power to be available, e.g., the
measurement of the earth-fault loop impedance and functional testing of
residual current devices (RCDs).
Safe to use
The final act of the commissioning process is to ensure the safe and correct operation
of all circuits and equipment which have been installed, and that the customer’s
requirements have been met. This will also confirm that the installation works and,
more importantly, will work under fault conditions; after all, it is under fault
conditions that lives and property will be at risk. The testing of electrical installations
can cause some degree of danger; it is the responsibility of the person carrying out
the tests to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Health and Safety Executive
Guidance Note GS38 (Electrical test equipment for use by electricians) details
relevant safety procedures and should be observed in full.
• When using test instruments the following points will help to achieve a safe
working environment. The person carrying out the tests must have a
thorough understanding of the equipment being used and its rating.
• The person carrying out the tests must ensure that all safety procedures are
being followed, e.g. erection of warning notices and barriers where
appropriate.
• The person carrying out the tests should ensure that all instruments being
used conform to the appropriate British Standard, i.e. BS EN 61010 or older
instruments manufactured to BS 5458 (provided these are in good condition
and have been recently calibrated).
• The person carrying out the tests should check that test leads including probes
and clips are in good condition, are clean and have no cracked or broken
insulation. Where appropriate the requirements of GS38 should be observed,
including the use of fused test leads.
Purpose of a periodic inspection
• Confirm the safety of persons and livestock against the effects of electric shock
or burns
• Ensure protection against damage to property by fire or heat arising from an
installation defect
• Confirm that the installation has not been damaged and has not deteriorated
to the extent that it may impair safety
• Identify any defects in the installation or non-conformity with the current
edition of the Regulations that may cause danger.
The intervals between tests is determined by the following.
• Legislation requires that all installations must be maintained in a safe
condition and therefore must be periodically inspected and tested. Table 8.01
details the maximum period between inspections of various types of
installation.
• Licensing authorities, public bodies, insurance companies and other
authorities may require public inspection and testing of electrical installations.
• The installation must comply with BS 7671.
• It is also recommended that inspection and testing should occur when there is
a change of use of the premises, any alterations or additions to the original
installation, any significant change in the electrical loading of the installation,
and where there is reason to believe that damage may have been caused to the
installation.
Domestic or if change of occupancy 10 years
Highway power supplies 6 years
Churches 5 years
Commercial or if change of occupancy 5 years
Educational premises 5 years
Hotels 5 years
Hospitals 5 years
Laboratories 5 years
Offices 5 years
Public Houses 5 years
Shops 5 years
Village halls 5 years
Agricultural/Horticultural 3 years
Caravans 3 years
Cinemas 3 years
Emergency Lighting 3 years
Industrial 3 years
Leisure Complexes 3 years
Places of public entertainment 3 years
Theaters 3 years
Caravan parks 1 year
Fire alarms 1 year
Fish farms 1 year
Launderettes 1 year
Marinas 1 year
Petrol filling stations 1 year
Residential accommodation or if change of 1 year
occupancy
Swimming pool 1 year
Construction sites 3 Months
Table 3 Frequency of Inspection
In the case of an installation that is under constant supervision while in normal use,
such as a factory or other industrial premises, periodic inspection and testing may be
replaced by a system of continuous monitoring and maintenance of the installation,
provided that adequate records of such maintenance are kept.
When carrying out the design of an electrical installation, and particularly when
specifying the type of equipment to be installed, the designer should take into account
the likely quality of the maintenance programme and the periods between periodic
inspection and testing to be specified on the Electrical Installation Certificate. Both
Section 6 of the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations require information on the requirements for routine
checks and periodic inspections to be provided. The advice of the Health and Safety
Executive in their Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations
indicates that practical experience of an installation’s use may indicate the need for
an adjustment to the frequency of checks and inspections, i.e. more often or less
frequent depending on the likely deterioration of the installation during its normal
use. This would be a matter of judgement for the duty holder.
Routine Checks
Electrical installations should still be routinely checked in the intervening time
between periodic inspection and testing. In domestic premises it is likely that the
occupier will soon notice any damage or breakages to electrical equipment and will
take steps to have repairs carried out. In commercial or industrial installations, a
suitable reporting system should be available for users of the installation to report
any potential danger from deteriorating or damaged equipment. In addition to this, a
system of routine checks should be set up to take place between formal periodic
inspections. The frequency of these checks will depend entirely on the nature of the
premises and the usage of the installation. Routine checks are likely to include
activities such as those listed in Table
Activity Check
Defect reports Check that all reported defects have been
rectified and that the installation is safe.
Inspection • Breakages
• Wear or deterioration
• Signs of overheating
• Missing parts (screws & covers)
• Switch gear still accessible
• Enclosure door secure
• Labels still adequate(readable)
• Loose fittings
Operations Check operations of
• Switch gear (where reasonable)
• Equipment (switching on and off)
• RCD (using test buttons)
Table 4: Routine Checks
The recommended period between both routine checks and formal
inspections are given in Table above taken from IEE Guidance Note 3. The
requirements for such inspections are stated in BS 7671 Chapter 62 and
specify that all inspections should provide careful scrutiny of the installation
without dismantling or with only partial dismantling where absolutely
necessary. It is considered that the unnecessary dismantling of equipment or
disconnection of cables could produce a risk of introducing faults that were
not there in the first place.
In summary, the inspection should ensure that:
• the installation is safe
• the installation has not been damaged
• the installation has not deteriorated so as to impair safety
• any items that no longer comply with the Regulations or may cause danger are
identified.
In practical terms the inspector is carrying out a general inspection to ensure that
the installation is safe. However, the inspector is required to record and make
recommendations with respect to any items that no longer comply with the current
edition of the Regulations.
Statutory and Non-Statutory Documentation
• non-conducting location
• electrical separation.
22. Protective devices: Have they been set correctly for the load? If rewirable fuses
have been fitted, has the correct size of fuse wire been used? If a socket is to be
provided for outdoor equipment, has a 30 mA rated RCD been fitted?
23. Checks on documentation: Diagrams, schedules, charts, instructions and any
other information must be available if inspection and testing is to be carried
out in a satisfactory manner.
24. Checks on warning notices: These should be fixed to equipment operating in
excess of 250 volts where this voltage would not normally be expected.
Preparing for inspection
BS 7671 requires that the results of any periodic inspection and test should be
recorded on a periodic inspection and test report of the type illustrated in Figure
8.02. The report should include the following:
If any items are found which may cause immediate danger, these should be rectified
immediately. If this is not possible then they must be reported to a responsible
person without delay.
When inspecting older installations, which may have been installed in accordance
with a previous edition of the IEE Wiring Regulations, provided that all items which
do not conform to the present edition of BS 7671 are reported, the installation may
still be acceptable, provided that no risk of shock, fire or burns exists.
Details of the
client………………………………………………………………………
Name……………………………………………………………………………
…………
Address:…………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………….....
Occupier…………………………………………………………………………
……………….
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………..
Date of last
inspection……………………………………………………………………
Records
availability……………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
Limitations………………………………………………………………………
………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………..
This inspection has been carried out in accordance with BS 7671(IEE wiring
regulations). Cables concealed within trunking and conduit cables concealed
under floors buried underground installed in roof spaces or generally hidden
within the fabric of the building have not been inspected.
Next inspection
(we recommend that this installation should be further inspected and tested after
an interval of not more than………. months\years providing that any
observations requiring urgent are attended without delay.
Declaration
Name……………………………………Signature………………………………
………
Address……………………………………….
……………………………………………………
………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………….
Date………………………………………………………...
• all equipment and materials used in the installation are of the correct type
and comply with the appropriate British Standards or acceptable equivalent
• all parts of the installation have been correctly selected and installed
• no part of the installation is visibly damaged or otherwise defective
• the installation is suitable for the surrounding environmental conditions
Before carrying out the inspection and test of an installation, BS 7671 requires the
person carrying out the work to be provided with the following information:
✓ Anticipation of Danger
Identify any equipment that may be damaged if subjected to high-test
voltages as well as computer equipment as this may include safety systems
such as fire or intruder alarms that could well have electronic components
susceptible to test voltages.
✓ Joints and connections
Provided the switchgear and distribution boards are accessible as required
by the Regulations, then a full inspection of all conductor terminations
should be carried out and any signs of overheating or loose connections
should be investigated and included in the report. For lighting points and
socket outlets a suitable sample should be inspected in the same way
✓ Conductors
The means of identification of every conductor, including protective
conductors, should be checked and any damage or deterioration to the
conductors, their insulation, protective sheathing or armour should be
recorded. This inspection should include each conductor at every
distribution board within the installation and a suitable sample of lighting
points, switching points and socket outlets.
✓ Flexible cables and cords
Where flexible cables or cords form part of the fixed installation the
inspection should include:
• examination of the cable or cord for damage or deterioration
• examination of the terminations and anchor points for any defects
checking the correctness of the installation with regard to additional
mechanical protection or the application of heat resistant sleeving where
necessary.
✓ Switches
The IEE Guidance Notes 3 (Inspection & Testing), recommends that a
random sample of at least 10 per cent of all switching devices be given a
thorough internal visual inspection to assess their electrical and mechanical
condition. Should the inspection reveal excessive wear and tear or signs of
damage due to arcing or overheating then, unless it is obvious that the
problem is associated with that particular switch, the inspection should be
extended to include all remaining switches associated with the installation.
✓ Protection against thermal effects
the presence of fire barriers and seals should be checked wherever
reasonably practicable.
✓ Protection against Direct and Indirect contact
Separate Extra Low Voltage (SELV) is commonly used as a means of
protection against both direct and indirect contact. When inspecting this
type of system, the points to be checked include the use of a safety isolating
transformer, the need to keep the primary and secondary circuits separate
and the segregation of exposed conductive parts of the SELV system from
any connection with the earthing of the primary circuit or from any other
connection with earth.
✓ Basic Protection
Inspection of the installation should confirm that all the requirements of the
Regulations have been met with regard to basic protection against direct
contact with live conductors. This means checking to ensure there has been
no damage or deterioration of any of the insulation within the installation, no
removal of barriers or obstacles and no alterations to enclosures that may allow
access to live conductors.
✓ Fault Protection
The method used for fault protection must be established and recorded on
the Inspection Schedule. Where earthed equipotential bonding and automatic
disconnection of the supply is used, a check on the condition of the main
equipotential bonding conductor and the satisfactory connection of all other
protective conductors with earth are essential.
✓ Protective devices
A check must be made that each circuit is adequately protected with the
correct type, size and rating of fuse or circuit breaker. A check should also be
made that each protective device is suitable for the type of circuit it is
protecting and the earthing system employed, e.g. will the protective device
operate within the disconnection time allowed by the Regulations and is the
rating of the protective device suitable for the maximum prospective short
circuit current likely to flow under fault conditions?
✓ Enclosures and mechanical protection
The enclosures of all electrical equipment and accessories should be
inspected to ensure that they provide protection not less than IP2X or IPXXB,
and where horizontal top surfaces are readily accessible they should have a
degree of protection of at least IP4X. IP2X represents the average finger of
12mm diameter and 80mm in length and can be tested by a metal finger of these
dimensions. IP4X provides protection against entry by strips greater than
1.0mm thickness or solid objects exceeding 1.0mm in diameter.
Visual Inspection
Inspection Requirements
In order to meet the requirements for the inspection process we should also
include the checking of the following relevant items:
10. Requirements for basic and fault protection
Separate extra low voltage (SELV) is the most common method of providing
both basic and fault protection. Requirements for this type of system include:
Inspection Checklist
To ensure that all the requirements of the Regulations have been met, inspection
checklists should be drawn up and used as appropriate to the type of installation
being inspected. Examples of suitable checklists are given in Table
Correctly earthed
Conditions likely to be encountered taken account of, i.e. suitable for the
environment
Correct IP rating
No sharp edges on cable entries, screw heads etc. which could cause damage to
cables
Cooker control unit sited to one side and low enough for accessibility and to prevent
trailing flexes across the radiant plates
Complies with appropriate British Standard and is shuttered for household and
similar installations
Sockets not installed in bath or shower zones unless they are shaver-type socket or
SELV
Circuit protective conductor connected directly to the earthing terminal of the socket
outlet on asheathed wiring installation
Earthing tail provided from the earthed metal box to the earthing terminal of the
socket outlet
Socket outlets not used to supply a water heater with uninsulated elements
No more than one flexible cord unless designed for multiple pendants
Holes in ceiling above ceiling rose made good to prevent spread of fire
Common outlets for band 1 and band 2 circuits provided with screens, barriers or
partitions
Earthed
Joints mechanically sound, and of adequate earth continuity with links fitted
Table 5.
Inspection checklist
7.2.1.4 Learning Activities
Self-assessment
11. There are various documents that are relevant to the Inspection and Testing of an
installation. State
a) one statutory item of documentation
b) two non-statutory items of documentation.
12. List the first three tests that should be carried out during a periodic inspection and test of an
installation
13. State THREE circumstances that would require a periodic inspection and test to be carried
out on an installation.
14. The electrical installation in a small food retail outlet is scheduled for a periodic
inspection andtest for local authority licensing.
a)Describe how the safe isolation of the single-phase distribution board located in the
officearea is to be carried out.
b) Explain why the sequence of testing for this periodic inspection may be different to
that givenin BS 7671 for initial verification.
15. A periodic inspection is to be undertaken in a large community Centre
which isopen to the public.
v) State what must be agreed with the client and recorded before
any work isundertaken.
vi) State who else must be considered by the inspector in respect to their
safety whilstcarrying out this work.
vii) State three actions the inspector must take to ensure the safety of people
using thebuilding during the inspection and testing process.
16. One of the competence requirement identified in guidance note 3 (GN3, is for the
inspector to have sound knowledge and experience relevant to the nature of the installation
being inspected and tested. List three other competence requirement given in GN3
17. List three items related to the nature of the supply which should be made available to an
inspector
18. Explain briefly inspection and testing of a new electrical installation should be carried out
19. State three items would need to be inspected during the first fix construction of a PVC
conduit installation for lighting in general purpose workshop
20. State the most appropriate human sense used to identify
d) Terminals are correctly tightened
e) Terminals are correctly identified
f) That a motor has been overloaded
Model Answers to self-assessment
2. Electricity at Work act ‘89 or Health & Safety at Work Act ‘74
BS 767 On
Site Guide
Guidance Notes etc.
2 Continuity of CPC
Polarity
Earth loop impedance
3 End of license (Public buildings)
End of insurance period
Change of ownership
End of recommended period since last test
4 Safe Isolation Procedure
a) Identify the equipment to be worked on and its means of isolation.
b) Unplug the equipment if possible.
c) Isolate and lock off.
d) Prove the voltage tester.
e) Prove the equipment is dead (phase to neutral and phase to earth).
f) Re-prove the voltage tester.
g) Attach temporary earth leads if necessary.
h) Post caution notices.
i) Consider the need for additional precautions.
5 Further safety procedures may be set in place. Permits to work come into their own when
dealing with an electrical piece of equipment or installation and are part of an overall strategyfor
safety, called a ‘safe system of work’.
b) The tests need not be carried out in the order as for the initial verification procedure asthe
installation will have been in operation for some time.
The same range and level of testing as for initial testing is not necessarily required, or
indeed possible. Installations that have been previously tested and for which there are
comprehensive records of test results may not need the same degree of testing as
installations for which no such records exist.
The person carrying out the testing should decide which of the above tests
areappropriate by using their experience and knowledge of the installation
being inspected and tested and by consulting any available records.
The inspector will need to set a sample size for testing. Where a sample test indicates
results significantly different to those previously recorded, further investigation is
necessary. Also, if during the course of testing a sample, significant errors were found
that would suggest that the same problems may exist in untested items, then the
inspector has to take appropriate action.
This action needs to be either increasing the sampling or referring back to the client; it
may be that the inspector recommends that 100 per cent testing is carried out in that
area.
8 i) Prior to carrying out the inspection, the inspector will need to meet with
the client or the client’s representative to outline the scope and nature of the work
required and to highlight likely items that require isolation. That is the degree of
disconnection which will be acceptable before planning the detailed inspectionand
testing must be agreed. Also, the scope, that is, the extent and limitations of the
periodic inspection must be agreed, that is, what is to be covered andwhat is not
covered.
13 Smell
Touch
Sight
Learning Outcome 3: Perform installation servicing
Presence of storage batteries
Since an emergency occurring in a building may cause the mains supply to fail, the emergency
lighting should be supplied from a source which is independent from the main supply. A
battery’s ability to provide its output instantly makes it a very satisfactory source of standby
power. In most commercial, industrial and public service buildings housing essential services,
the alternative power supply would be from batteries. The emergency lighting supply must have
an adequate capacity and rating for the specific ed duration of time (IEE Regulation 313.2). BS
5266 and BS EN 1838 states that after a battery is discharged by being called into operation for
its specified duration of time, it should be capable of once again operating for the specified
duration of time following a recharge period of no longer than 24 hours. The duration of time for
which the emergency lighting should operate will be specified by a statutory authority but is
normally 1–3 hours. The British Standard states that escape lighting should operate for a
minimum of 1 hour.
The batteries used for the emergency supply should be suitable for this purpose. The British
Standard recommends that the full load should be carried by the emergency supply for at least 1
hour in every 6 months. After testing, the emergency system must be carefully restored to its
normal operative state. A record should be kept of each item of equipment and the date of each
test by a qualified or responsible person. It may be necessary to produce the record as evidence
of satisfactory compliance with statutory legislation to a duly authorized person. Self-contained
units are suitable for small installations of up to about 12 units. The batteries contained within
these units should be replaced about every 5 years, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Storage batteries are secondary cells. A secondary cell has the advantage of being rechargeable.
If the cell is connected to a suitable electrical supply, electrical energy is stored on the plates of
the cell as chemical energy. When the cell is connected to a load, the chemical energy is
converted to electrical energy.
A lead-acid cell is a secondary cell. Each cell delivers about 2 V, and when six cells are
connected in series a 12 V battery is formed. A lead-acid battery is constructed of lead plates
which are deeply ribbed to give maximum surface area for a given weight of plate. The plates are
assembled in groups, with insulating separators between them. The separators are made of a
porous insulating material, such as wood or ebonite, and the whole assembly is immersed in a
dilute sulphuric acid solution in a plastic container. The capacity of a cell to store charge is a
measure of the total quantity of electricity which it can cause to be displaced around a circuit
after being fully charged. It is stated in ampere-hours, abbreviation Ah, and calculated at the 10-
hour rate which is the steady load current which would completely discharge the battery in 10
hours. Therefore, a 50 Ah battery will provide a steady current of 5A for 10 hours.
• The plates of the battery must always be covered by dilute sulphuric acid. If the level
falls, it must be topped up with distilled water.
• Battery connections must always be tight and should be covered with a thin coat of
petroleum jelly.
• The specific gravity or relative density of the battery gives the best indication of its state
of charge. A discharged cell will have a specific gravity of 1.150, which will rise to 1.280
when fully charged. The specific gravity of a cell can be tested with a hydrometer.
• To maintain a battery in good condition it should be regularly trickle-charged. A rapid
charge or discharge encourages the plates to buckle, and may cause permanent damage.
Most batteries used for standby supplies today are equipped with constant voltage
chargers. The principle of these is that after the battery has been discharged by it being
called into operation, the terminal voltage will be depressed and this enables a relatively
large current (1–5A) to fl ow from the charger to recharge the battery. As the battery
becomes more fully charged its voltage will rise until it reaches the constant voltage level
where the current output from the charger will drop until it is just sufficient to balance the
battery’s internal losses. The main advantage of this system is that the battery controls the
amount of charge it receives and is therefore automatically maintained in a fully charged
condition without human intervention and without the use of any elaborate control
circuitry.
• The room used to charge the emergency supply storage batteries must be well ventilated
because the charged cell gives off hydrogen and oxygen, which are explosive in the
correct proportions
Having successfully diagnosed the electrical fault and carried out the necessary repairs or having
completed any work in the electro technical industry, we come to the final practical task, leaving
the site in a safe and clean condition and the removal of any waste material. This is an important
part of company’s ‘good customer relationships’ with the client and having a good attitude to
health and safety, working conscientiously and neatly, keeping passageways clear and regularly
tidying up the workplace is the sign of a good and competent craftsman. But what do you do
with the rubbish that the working environment produces? Well:
• All the packaging material for electrical fittings and accessories usually goes into either
your employer’s skip or the skip on site designated for that purpose.
• All the off-cuts of conduit, trunking and tray also go into the skip.
• In fact, most of the general site debris will probably go into the skip and the waste
disposal company will take the skip contents to a designated local council landfill area
for safe disposal. The part coils of cable and any other reusable leftover lengths of
conduit, trunking or tray will be taken back to your employer’s stores area. Here it will
be stored for future use and the returned quantities deducted from the costs allocated to
that job.
• What goes into the skip for normal disposal into a landfill site is usually a matter of
common sense. However, some substances require special consideration and disposal.
We will now look at asbestos and large quantities of used fluorescent tubes which are
classified as ‘special waste’ or ‘hazardous waste’.
Asbestos is a mineral found in many rock formations. When separated it becomes a fluffy,
fibrous material with many uses. In the buildings where it was installed some 40 years ago, when
left alone, it does not represent a health hazard, but those buildings are increasingly becoming in
need of renovation and modernization. It is in the dismantling and breaking up of these asbestos
materials that the health hazard increases. Asbestos is a serious health hazard if the dust is
inhaled. The tiny asbestos particles find their way into delicate lung tissue and remain embedded
for life, causing constant irritation and eventually, serious lung disease. If asbestos is present in
situations or buildings where you are expected to work, it should be removed by a specialist
contractor before your work commences. Specialist contractors, who will wear fully protective
suits and use breathing apparatus, are the only people who can safely and responsibly carry out
the removal of asbestos. They will wrap the asbestos in thick plastic bags and store them
temporarily in a covered and locked skip. This material is then disposed of in a special landfill
site with other toxic industrial waste materials and the site monitored by the local authority for
the foreseeable future.
Removing the old fluorescent fittings hanging on chains or fixed to beams and installing a
suspended ceiling and an appropriate number of recessed modular fluorescent fittings. These
fittings are made of sheet steel, a couple of plastic lamp holders, a little cable, a starter and
ballast. All of these materials can go into the ordinary skip. However, the fluorescent tubes
contain a little mercury and fluorescent powder with toxic elements, which cannot be disposed of
in the normal land fill sites. Hazardous Waste Regulations were introduced in July 2005 and
under these regulations lamps and tubes are classified as hazardous. The environmentally
responsible way to dispose of fluorescent lamps and tubes is to recycle them. The process
usually goes like this:
• Your employer arranges for the local electrical wholesaler to deliver a plastic waste
container of an appropriate size for the job.
• Expired lamps and tubes are placed whole into the container, which often has a grating
inside to prevent the tubes breaking when being transported.
• When the container is full of used lamps and tubes, you telephone the electrical
wholesaler and ask them to pick up the filled container and deliver it to one of the
specialist recycling centers.
• Your electrical company will receive a ‘Duty of Care Note’ and full recycling documents
which ought to be fi led safely as proof that the hazardous waste was recycled safely.
• The charge is approximately 50p for each 1800mm tube and this cost is passed on to the
customer through the final account.
NB:
Insulation resistance.
This is the resistance in ohms between the live parts of the installation and earth, measured
through insulating covering of the conductors, etc. In the case of metal-covered wiring or conduit
wiring, the term 'earth' means in practice the metallic covering or conduit which itself is
connected directly to earth. Additionally, the insulation resistance is measured between lines,
that is, between the opposite poles of the installation with lamps or other apparatus disconnected
and switches on.
The difference between insulation and conductor resistance is shown in the sketches (Figs. 93
and 94). In measuring the resistance of a
Fig. 1 Measuring conductor resistance
conductor AB, the resistance is measured along the wire from end to end, and increase of
conductor length means increase of resistance. In measuring the insulation resistance of the
conductor, the measurement is made from the conductor outwards.
The formula for conductor resistance is R =pl where / is the length a of the conductor, a is the
cross-sectional area, and p is the resistivity of the conductor material. Using a similar formula for
insulation (it is sufficiently true for the purposes of this argument), R' = p'l/a’ the thickness of the
insulation, a' is proportional to the length of the wire, and p' is the resistivity of the insulating
material.
Thus, if an insulated wire is increased in length, its conductor resistance increases while its
insulation resistance decreases. Therefore, the longer the conductor the less will be its insulation
resistance.
Inspection of installations.
During the fitting of the various parts of an installation some form of inspection by the electrical
contractor or his staff is both desirable and necessary, Small faults could be brought to light and
corrected thus preventing waste of time during the final testing session. Alternatively, a careful
inspection should be made immediately prior to the testing.
Regulations. I.EE.
Regulations EI to E 14 deal with the testing and inspection of installations. These regulations are
discussed below, and methods of complying with them are described in detail.
Insulation resistance tests, Regulations E 6 and E 9. The various tests of an installation which
follow are to be made before the installation is connected to the supply, For the insulation
resistance tests large installations may be divided into groups of not less than 50 outlets. For this
purpose, the expression outlet includes every point (position for attachment of lamp, lighting
fitting, or current-using appliance) and every switch and socket-outlet. A socket-outlet, appliance
or lighting fitting incorporating a switch is regarded as one outlet.
Testing voltage. The voltage used for insulation resistance tests shall be a direct current voltage
not less than twice the normal direct current voltage, or in the case of alternating current not less
than twice the normal rms. voltage, but it need not exceed 500 V for medium-voltage circuits.
Thus a 500-V insulation resistance tester is sufficient for general purposes.
The test shall be made with all fuse links in place, all switches including the main switch cloud
and, except where earth-concentric wiring is concerned, all poles or phases electrically connected
together,
If required, all lamps and appliances may he removed during the test, in which case each piece of
apparatus should be separately tested, the measured insulation to earth shall be not less than 1
MΩ. The insulation
S. W S.W TO
NEXT
POINT
LAMPS
SWITCH CLOSED
COMPANY’S
MAIN SWITCH
OFF
EARTH TERMINAL
resistance of each piece of apparatus measured separately shall be not less than 0-5 MM to earth
(between live parts and frame), and 05MΩ between poles or phases. The sketch (Fig.) shows the
connections for testing the insulation resistance to earth of a completed 2-wire installation with
lamps and other apparatus disconnected. The wires of both poles of the supply to the main switch
are twisted together and connected to the 'line' terminal of the ohmmeter. The 'earth' terminal of
the ohmmeter is connected to the consumer's earthing terminal. The three terminals of 2-way
switches should temporarily be connected together.
This test is made between all the conductors connected to any one pole or phase of the supply,
and all conductors connected to any other pole or phase of the supply. The insulation resistance
is to be not less than 1 MΩ.
All lamps should be removed, all current-using apparatus dis connected and all local switches
controlling lamps or apparatus closed. When the removal of lamps and apparatus is not
practicable, all local switches should be open. The test does not apply to earthed concentric
wiring systems. Figure 97 gives the connections for the test of a 2-wire installation. Only one test
is required in this case.
For 3 and 4-wire installations more than one between phases test is necessary. A 3-wire direct
current installation will require three tests:
POINT
SWITCH CLOSED
FUSES IN
LAMPS OUT
PHASE OR OUTER
NEUTRAL
HEATERS ETC
DISCONNECTED
Figure 4.
1. three separate tests between pairs of lines, R-Y, R-B, and Y-B.
NEUTRAL
3-WIRE
d.‹x
3 - PHASE
3 - WIRE
5 - PHASE
6 - WIRE
(d)
On p. 12 it was noted that by I.E.E. Regulation all single-pole or linked switches were to be fitted
in the outer or phase conductor. If the proper colored cable is used throughout the installation,
i.e., in a2-wi installation, red for switch feeds and switch wires and black for light feeds, no
confusion should arise.
Paying for polarity with circuit alive. The simplest way to test is with the circuit alive, switched
on the main switch, All single-pole switches would be ON', their covers removed, all lamps
should be out, and other Neutral should be disconnected, If the single-pole switches are in the
Correct conductor, the phase or outer conductor, they will be alive. A portable lamp with a pair
of long insulated leads is used. The leads Should terminate in insulated test prods in the interests
of safety. The end of one prod is connected to the known earthed conductor at the main switch,
and the other prod is touched to the single-pole switch terminals. The test lamp should light.
Should the switch be in the wrong or earthed conductor, the test lamp will not light as the switch
will be at earth potential. This procedure is repeated at all the switches in turn. In the case of 2-
way switches, the three terminals of the switches should be temporarily connected together for
the test. In a large installation the work can be sectionalized by checking the polarity of the
busbars at the distribution boards and working from these positions instead of running the test
lead back to the main switch. The test should be extended to verify that the three-pin socket
outlets are properly connected, that is, with the terminal marked 'L' connected to the outer or
phase conductor,
In testing screw-type lamp holders to ensure that the outer contact is earthed, one prod should be
touched to the live side of the main switch and the other prod to the outer contact of the lamp
holder, when the test lamp should light. It must be remembered that the test is being made on a
live circuit, and care must be taken, otherwise unpleasant or dangerous shocks may be sustained;
Figures above illustrate the tests.
Testing for polarity with circuit dead. Testing instruments are available by which the polarity of
the circuit switches can be tested before the installation is connected to the supply. In its simplest
form the instrument consists of a direct-reading ohmmeter and a small dry battery contained in a
small case, with two terminals to which a pair of test leads with or without testing spikes may be
connected. Figure 103 illustrates the test. The main switch and fuses are out, lamps and other
apparatus are out or disconnected, and the single-pole switches are on. One lead of the polarity
tester is connected to the phase or outer conductor at the outgoing side of the main fuses. The
other lead is touched to the terminals of the single-pole switches in turn. Provided the polarity is
correct, the instrument reading will be less than I 2 normally, since the instrument is measuring
the resistance of the circuit wiring from the main fuse to the switch being tested. If the single-
pole switch is in the
CONDUCTOR
SWITCHES ON
PHASE OR OUTERLAMP WILL LIGHT
CONDUCTOR
METER
NEUTRAL↘
OR PHASE
`
incorrect conductor the instrument reading will be a maximum, i.e., infinity. The polarity of the
3-pin socket outlet is tested in a similar way.
LAMPS OUT
YY FUSES OUT
MAIN SWITCH OPEN
NEUTRAL
PHASE OR OUTER
Earth-fault loop testing. Regulation E 4 requires that when earth leakage protection relies on
the operation of fuses or excess-current circuit-breakers, the effectiveness of earthing shall be
tested by means of an earth-loop impedance test.
CONSUMER'S TERMINALS
EARTH
PATH
The diagram Figure above shows the path of leakage current from an earth fault on a 2-wire final
sub-circuit. The path of the leakage current is from the earth fault (F) along the earth-continuity
conductor to the consumer's earthing terminal and thence to the consumer's earth electrode. From
here the fault current passes through the general mass of earth to the supply authority's earth
electrode at the supply trans former, through the transformer winding and along the line through
the consumer's wiring to the fault. This path is called the line earth loop, and it is this loop which
is to be tested, The Regulations allow the neutral-earth loop to be tested as an alternative.
A line-earth tester such as the Megger line-earth tester would be used. The operation of this
instrument is as follows:
The instrument passes a short duration current through the loop, the value of the current depending
upon the impedance of the loop as well as upon the voltage of the tester. The current passes through
10 resistors in series with the loop, and the voltage drop across it is measured by means of a ballistic
instrument which is calibrated to read directly the loop impedance in ohms. This instrument
incorporates a voltmeter and a voltage selection switch, enabling it to be used on supplies of
different line-neutral voltages.
Regulation E 3 requires that every earth-continuity conductor shall be tested in accordance with
Item 1 of Appendix 6. Four methods are given:
All apparatus must be disconnected from the ring. The ring is the disconnected at the distribution
board so that the four ends of the ring conductors are exposed. Touching the continuity tester
across the two ends of the line conductor will give a very low reading, showing continuity. The
neutral conductor is checked in a similar way.
To check the conductors in the spurs, the ring should remain open with ends exposed. A
continuity test would be made across line end neutral from the end socket-outlet on any spur,
when the indication should be infinite resistance. This could be repeated at every spur end. If one
pair of exposed wires, line and neutral, at the exposed ends be now temporarily short-circuited,
continuity readings from each spur end should show very low resistance, thus verifying
continuity.
The earth-continuity conductors could be checked for continuity at the same time.
Completion certificate
On completion of a new installation or of a major alteration, and after inspection and testing as
described, the installation contractor is required to give a Completion Certificate. This certificate,
gives certain details of the installation including the number of appliances, etc., the method of
earthing, and the value of the earth-loop impedance. The certificate states that the work has been
done in accordance with Regulations. It also recommends periodic testing and inspection.
Inspection certificate
When the installation is re-inspected and tested at a later date, an inspection certificate is
completed and handed to the consumer. It gives the results of the full range of tests of the
installation.
Practical activities
The test results shown in figure below were obtained from a ring final circuit continuity test.
State whether reading for each socket are satisfactory or unsatisfactory. give reason for those
reading unsatisfactory.
Note: line, neutral and c.p.c loops =0.8Ω
A 0.4 0.41
C 0.5 0.4
D 0.4 No reading
E 0.41 0.41
9.
c. Describe in details the test procedure for insulation resistance on the installation
d. The test results indicate an overall value of 1.5Ω. state with reasons what actions if
any should be taken
10. A loop impedance test on the lighting circuit is conducted and 6A type B m.c.b trips
repeatedly
b. Explain why this is the case
Explain why the problem may be overcome in order to conduct the test
3. Explain briefly the action to be taken if the insulation resistance test of an installation
indicates an overall value of 1.25 M-ohms
11. A ring final circuit continuity test revealed incorrect polarity on three socket outlets. The
results were
L to N L to c.p.c.
Socket A Open circuit Correct
Socket B Correct Open circuit
Socket C Open circuit Open Circuit
1. As the line, neutral and c.p.c loops are0.8Ω, the outlet readings should be in the order of 0.4Ω
+0.05Ω
b) this could indicate a latent defect. Each circuit should be tested individually and its insulation
resistance should be greater than 2Ω.
2.a. As loop impedance tester delivers high current for a short time. It is not.
-then Z
identified at termination
4. Each circuit should be separately tested & its insulation resistance should be greater than 2
MΩ.
5. L & C.P.C.
L&N
All or N & C.P.C.
6.
d) . insulation resistance tester
e) 500 V dc
f) 2 MΩ
To prove the correct polarity of the incoming supply
Approved voltage indicator
4.a. Test across the line and neutral, voltage should be present
c. Test across the neutral and earth conductors, no voltage should be present
5.a. the remote end of the circuit (point furthest away from the source of supply)
b. measured value
c. the R1+R2 value obtained using a d.c test and does not take into account the impedance (a.c
resistance) of the circuit conductors. Also when taking a reading of Ze parallel paths may be
present which would lead to lower reading than may otherwise be calculating using the values
of Ze and R1+R2
CHAPTER 9: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION BREAKDOWN MAINTENANCE
Unit of learning code: ENG/CU/EI/CR/05/5
Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard: This unit addresses the unit of
competency: Conduct Electrical Installation Breakdown Maintenance
Principle of operation
Usually, the identification of the symptoms only helps to suspect what items need to be checked
for malfunction. To properly identify fault in an electric circuit, you must know how each
electrical component in the unit should function and be able to evaluate the performance of each
component. Electrical records, prints, schematics, and manufacturers’ literature—combined with
your knowledge and experience—will help you determine how each component is expected to
operate. After determining the expected operating characteristics, the next step is to identify the
actual problem by finding the faulty part or component. this may be done by visual inspection or
test using instruments.
Some situations also require testing for power, power factor, frequency, phase rotation,
inductance, capacitance, and impedance
Visual inspection
Visual Inspection, or Visual Testing (VT), is the oldest and most basic method of inspection
Before actual electrical measurements and tests are considered, the defective equipment should
be visually inspected. Sometimes the problem will immediately appear and remedy quickly
applied to restore the equipment without much trouble. When conducting visual inspection, the
serviceman should look for broken wires, dry joints damaged printed circuits board trucks, burnt
or damaged components, displaced fuses and loose connections. Terminals should be inspected
and seen to be well secured. Visual inspection may be carried out when power is off and when it
is on. Visual inspection can be used for internal and external surface inspection of a variety of
equipment types, including storage tanks, pressure vessels, piping, and other equipment.
Interview of users
Many machine operators are responsible for performing safety or quality checks on their
equipment prior to putting it to use each day. It there important to interview them to understand
the probable cause of the problem questions may include
Types of failures
Electrical networks, machines and equipment are often subjected to various types of faults while
they are in operation. When a fault occurs, the characteristic values (such as impedance) of the
machines may change from existing values to different values till the fault is cleared After all the
symptoms have been accurately noted, performance test of the equipment should be carried out.
By doing this, the repair serviceman may discover other symptoms that the client may not have
known, or been able to communicate on the account of little technical understanding. In some
cases, a system may be reported faulty while in fact the failure is the result of incorrect operation
due to the customer not being well conversant with his equipment.
Partial Failures
Failure exists in varying degrees but in the most basic terms, Partial failure simply means that
some of system, component, or device can no longer produce specific desired results. Even if a
piece of manufacturing equipment is still running and producing items, it has failed if it doesn’t
deliver the expected quantities.
Total failure
Total failure means that most of the system, component, or device can no longer produce specific
desired results. This lead to slow down of operation for the machine can no longer produce
Manuals
A service manual is a collection of technical data and information for a specific model of
equipment. It is compiled and supplied by the manufacture for use when servicing the
equipment.
• Description of specification
• Performance specifications
• Block diagrams
• Schematic diagrams
• Component’s layout
• Hints on maintenance
• Procedures for dismantling, testing, and fault diagnosis
• Fault location guides
• Mechanical layout of the entire equipment
• Spare part lists
NB
Use of a service manual turns what could otherwise be an infuriating guessing game to a quick
straight forward repair job
9.2.1.4 Learning activities
9.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
a) What are the advantages of breakdown maintenance?
b) What are the disadvantages of breakdown maintenance?
c) What are the causes of breakdown maintenance?
d) How do you analyze system failure?
e) Give causes of electrical equipment failure
9.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Tools
• Stationery
• Lubricants
• Service parts
Equipment
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
Terrell Croft, W. S. (2013). American Electrician’s handbook 16th Edition. New York:
McGraw-Hill Education.
This section requires the trainee to select the right instruments for trouble shooting faulty
electrical system. It involves taking the necessary safety procedure and use the correct tools and
equipment to diagnose and record failure results
Trouble shoot: is the process of identifying planning and resolving a problem in a mechanical or
electronics system
Failure diagnosis: is the process of tracing a fault by means of its symptoms, applying
knowledge, and analyzing test results
Parameters: a limit or boundary which defines a scope or particular process or activity
Systems: a set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or interconnecting network
Failure: the fact of system not working, or stopping working as well as it should
Closed circuit: means a complete electrical connection around which current flows or circulate
Open Circuit - any break (open) in the current path of a series circuit makes the entire circuit
inoperative. In a parallel circuit, only the branch effected by the open is inoperative.
Short Circuit - this can be a short-to-ground or short-to-voltage. This may cause a component to
continuously operate regardless of switch position, or a fuse to repeatedly blow, depending on
the fault
Earth Fault is an inadvertent fault between the live conductor and the earth
Records: a piece of information or a description of an event that is written on paper or store on a
computer
Specification: it is made exactly as the person who designed it said it should be done
Conducting fault diagnosis
Introduction
The ability to rapidly diagnose the case of faults in electrical and electronics system is an
important skill for every electrician. The use of electrical and electronics equipment in domestic
and industrial situations is increasing rapidly. It is therefore important that the electrician or
electronic technician be able to repair and service them.
Naturally, fault diagnosis skills are not achieved easily. Trouble shooting and repair should be a
logical step by step procedure not a haphazard, hit and miss trial and error practice. A good
understanding of component and circuit operation together with sound instruments is prerequisite
to successful servicing. in addition, the defective equipment, components and diagnostic tools.
a service technician cannot repair and service electrical gadgets profitably without the
appropriate service instruments. However, having the instruments is not enough, the technician
must know their specifications and understand their uses. The ability to use measuring
instruments and apply appropriate testing methods greatly assist in accurate pinpointing of faults
in components and circuits.
The test instruments considered may include multimeter, cathode ray oscilloscope and the
megger.
Open Circuits
Current will only flow in a circuit. That is, around a continuous path (or multiple paths) from and
back to the source of electromagnetic force (EMF). Any interruption in the circuit, such as an
open switch, a break in the wiring, or a component such as a resistor that has changed its
resistance to an extremely high value will cause current to cease. The EMF will still be present,
but voltages and currents around the circuit will have changed or ceased altogether. The open
switch or the fault has caused what is commonly called an open circuit.
Basically, an open circuit fault is any fault that will halt the operation of a machine due to an
open component
NB
Electrical Troubleshooting an Open Circuit The best method for diagnosing an open circuit is by
measuring voltage. When that is not possible, measure resistance following the steps below.
Short circuit
A short circuit is an electrical circuit that allows a current to travel along an unintended path with
no or very low electrical impedance. This results in excessive current flowing through the circuit
There are several causes for short circuits, including three that are most often to blame.
Old or damaged insulation may allow neutral and hot wires to touch, which can cause a short
circuit. Nail and screw punctures, as well as age, can cause wire casings or insulation to
deteriorate and create short circuits. Or, if animal pests such as mice, rats, or squirrels gnaw on
circuit wiring, the inner wire conductors can be exposed to cause short circuits.
Attachments can loosen, sometimes allowing neutral and live wires to touch. Fixing faulty wire
connections is tricky and is best handled by those thoroughly familiar with wiring work.
When an appliance is plugged into a wall outlet, its wiring effectively becomes an extension of
the circuit, and any problems in the appliance wiring become circuit problems. Old or broken
appliances can develop inner short circuits over time. Short circuits in appliances can occur in
the plugs, in the power cords, or inside the device itself. It’s best to have a technician look at
shorts in larger appliances such as ovens and dishwashers. Smaller appliances such as lamps
often can be rewired yourself.
Effects
• Abnormal operation of the system
• Danger to the personnel as well as animals
1. Locate the tripped circuit breaker: At the main service panel, look for an individual
2. Circuit breaker with a handle that has snapped to the OFF position. Some breakers may have
a red or orange window indicator to make it easy to spot. This tripped breaker will identify the
circuit where the problem exists. Leave the circuit breaker OFF as you inspect along the circuit.
3. Inspect appliance power cords: Inspect all the power cords plugged into outlets along the
circuit that has tripped. If you find any that are damaged or on which the plastic insulation has
melted, there is a good chance the short circuit is within the appliance or device itself. Unplug
these appliances from the circuit. If you find suspect appliances, switch the circuit breaker back
on after unplugging them. If the circuit now remains active without tripping again, it is very
certain that your problem existed in the appliance. However, if the circuit breaker trips again
immediately, proceed to the next step.
4. Turn off all light and appliance switches along the circuit. Then, turn the circuit breaker back
to the ON position.
5. Turn on each light switch or appliance switch, one at a time. If you reach a switch that
causes the circuit breaker to trip again, you have identified the section of circuit wiring where
a loose connection or wiring problem exists.
6. Repair the circuit wiring problem. This is a step that may require the help of a professional
electrician. Do not attempt this unless you are very confident about your knowledge and skill
level. This repair will involve shutting off the circuit, then opening up outlet and switch boxes
to inspect the wires and wire connections and making any repairs that are necessary.
Earth fault
A direct earth fault at a given subscriber in a transformer circuit will not normally affect the
other subscribers connected to the same circuit provided that the earthing system for the
individual installation satisfies current requirements. The individual owner/user is responsible for
reporting the fault and having it repaired by an authorized electrical contractor. There is a
requirement for earth fault
1. Earth faults occur when the hot wire or live wire comes into contact with the ground wire
2. Moisture in the Receptacle Box. The accumulation of moisture is another major cause
3. Overloaded Circuit. Circuit overload occurs when more amperage flows through
i. Locate the problem. Many homes are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters or
GFCI outlets. These outlets detect ground faults and shut off power to the affected circuit.
Some model’s alert homeowners with a light or by tripping a reset switch on the outlet.
Look for these alerts to locate the ground fault. If your home doesn’t have GFCI-
equipped outlets, look at your breaker box. Tripped breakers will be in the off position.
It’s important to note that ground faults don’t always trip breakers. If your electrical issue
is overloading breakers, you could be dealing with an electrical short or too many
appliances running on the same circuit.
ii. Disconnect your appliances. Unplug your appliances from the outlet and reset the breaker
or GFCI.
iii. Plug in your appliances. Plug each item back into the outlet until it trips again. This will
determine which appliance is causing the ground fault. If nothing trips your outlet, or if
your outlet doesn’t reset, your ground fault is likely located in another part of your home.
Call a professional to look. Faults can occur due to other outlets leaking current,
problems with exterior circuits, and other faulty appliances.
Mechanical fault
A machine that has been designed and manufactured to perform a certain function, is expected to
do so when installed in a plant for its designed life span. However, for reasons beyond one’s
control, such a machine may fail to do so for several reasons including
Excessive component heating are signs that something is going in the wrong direction. In the
case of non-typical vibrations, the main causes are:
Before you tackle any electrical project, having the proper tools is essential to getting the job
done efficiently, correctly, and more importantly, safely! The old saying, use the right tool for
the job, couldn’t be more relevant, especially when it comes to electrical work.
Circuit Testers
You need to have a voltage tester of some type for electrical work, and one that you trust is
working properly. The important thing is to ensure that it is working so you can verify that you
have the power off on any circuit you may be working with. Check it on a known live source
before trusting it to determine if your circuit is dead.
Screwdrivers
It is essential to have a good quality set of screwdrivers. It is best to purchase them in a
complete set rather than individually, as this will save you money, and increase the chances that
you will have the driver that best fits the need.
Cordless Screwdriver/Drill
If you are going to take on any project beyond the most basic of jobs, such as, for example,
changing out an individual receptacle or switch, you should have a good cordless drill and driver
tool, along with a complete set of screwdriver bits and drill bits. This will save you a lot of time
and when used properly, a power driver can be used in place of a screwdriver for most jobs.
I recommend purchasing a driver and drill instead of a basic cordless screwdriver as the quality
is usually better, and one tool will perform both functions. Get the best quality you can afford,
and make sure it has a 1/2″drive, and that is has sufficient power to drill a 1″ hole using an auger
bit.
If you will be using it a lot as a screwdriver, then give some consideration to the weight and size
when selecting the tool.
Electric Drill
For larger projects, with a lot of drilling required (wood studs, etc.), then an electric drill is more
practical. A 1/2″ medium duty drill is a minimum for driving a wood auger bit.
Knife
You will need to have a good knife, and I prefer a standard utility knife for stripping the PVC
jacket from Romex, stripping large gauge wire, and for many other jobs as well.
Wire Strippers
Have a good quality wire stripper. I prefer a T-Stripper with a wire cutter, light-duty plier nose,
and holes for bending termination loops on wires for most home electrical work. A combination
crimper, cutter, stripper, bolt cutter and more, like those found in automotive electrical repair kits
can be very handy as well, but the multi-purpose aspect means that the wire stripping function is
compromised.
A mechanical wire stripper does a really good job, especially for commercial or industrial
applications.
Lineman’s Plier
A lineman’s plier, or a bull nose plier with a wire cutter, and at least 8″or 9″ handles is also an
essential part of the electrical tool list. We use these for cutting, bending, twisting wires, etc.
Standard, Long-Nosed Pliers
Also known as needle-nosed pliers. These tools are also very handy to have as a part of your
electrical tool kit. They should have wire cutting knives as well.
Hammer
Have a good quality, 16oz. claw hammer. You will need this for driving staples, nails, etc.
Tape Measure
Have a good quality, locking tape measure and a 25’length, 1″ blade is maybe over-kill, but will
come in handy for other projects around the home.
Level
A 6″ plastic torpedo level is essential for levelling outlet boxes, cover plates, wall fixtures,
etc. A plastic level is less likely to leave marks.
Always check to make sure the level is indeed “level”. Before purchasing, check on a flat
surface and note the position of the bubble, even if not quite at center. Then flip the level end for
end in the exact same location and see if the bubble is in the same spot. You would be surprised
how many you will find that don’t pass this test. Especially in the lower quality price range.
Crescent wrench
Have one or two sizes of crescent wrenches in your kit.
Pump Pliers
Very handy, and essential if you are working with conduit, such as, flexible conduit.
Pipe Wrench
Essential if working with conduit
Electrical Tape
Every electrical tool kit should have at least a roll of black electrical tape, and having a few
colours like red and blue helps as well for identifying wires, etc.
Duct Tape
Every tool kit, electrical or otherwise, must have the universal repair tool that is a roll of duct
tape!
Flashlight/Headlamp
For when you need some extra light for dark places, or when the power is off while working on
existing systems.
Micrometer
A micrometer can be used to measure small and large sizes of wires, it is also used to remove the
diameter of circular wires. A micrometer can measure the diameter of thin wire accurately or
thickness of sheet metal.
Wrenches
Wrenches are instruments that can be used to turn nuts or hold the piece of stock when tightening
screws, nuts, and bolts. There are different types of wrenches like adjustable wrenches, pipe
wrench, vice grip wrench.
Specification of Tools
Electrical engineers are required to work in hazardous environments near energized equipment.
There are certain tools they require to carry out their job effectively and safely without causing
any harm to themselves and those around them. Here’s a sneak peek into some electrical
engineering tools and their uses.
As with any tool purchase, you'll get longer life and better performance from higher-quality
tools. Better electrical hand tools, such as wire cutters and linesman pliers, have insulated
handles to help guard against shock.
Fault records are one of the most important pieces of evidence that event analysts can have
during system event investigations. They can provide the reasons for premature equipment
failure, supply waveforms and status of equipment behavior during an event, and give necessary
information to perform post-fault event analysis. Proper use and interpretation of event records
can lead to corrective action for a given system problem resulting in improved performance and
reliability of any generation, transmission, and distribution system. Fault recording has been used
for decades now, and it is generally used for the following purposes:
a) Demonstrate the use of ohmmeter in testing for continuity short and open circuits
b) Demonstrate the use of voltmeter in measuring voltages in circuits
c) The trainees to carry out activities involving the use of the multimeter function in carrying
various tests
• R1 0pen circuit
• R2 10pen circuit
• R3 0pen circuit
• R4 0pen circuit
• B-E Junction shorted
• C-B Junction shorted
• Collector
The trainer should record the results and then then help the trainee to interpret the cause of
changes in the circuit voltage level
R1 R3
47 KΩ 2KΩ
C2 10uf
C1
10uf
560 Ω C3 33uf
R2 5.6KΩ R4
Table
Figure 3: Voltage
1: Single stagelevels
amplifier
NO VB VE VC Remarks
i. Normal
ii. R1
iii. R2
iv. R3
v. R4
vi. B-E junction shorted
vii. C-B junction shorted
viii. Collector open
9.2.2.5 Self-Assessment
a) What are the six steps in the trouble shooting process?
b) What are the common trouble shooting problems?
c) Explain what is meant by PPE
d) Discus how to deduce what actual faults could possibly be
e) Discus the tree functions of a multi meter
f) Discus the appropriate ohmmeter ranges for testing different components
9.2.2.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Tools
• Stationery
• Electrical component
9.2.2.7 References
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
Patil, M. B. (2004). Practical troubleshooting of electrical equipment and control circuits 1st
Edition. Newnes.
d) Examples include such items as gloves, foot and eye protections, protective hearing
devices and hats, respirators and full body suits
e) Discus how to deduce what actual faults could possibly be
f) ) Discus the tree functions of a multimeter
g) Discus the appropriate ohmmeter ranges for testing different components
9.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Repair the installation
9.2.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
This section requires the trainee to repair a faulty electrical system using the correct set of tools,
equipment, materials and observing all the safety procedures
• Repair/replace
• Meaning of repair
Prior to beginning work on any installation, regulation 14 of Electricity at work Regulation 1989
require that three conditions must be met These include
• The isolation process which is also known in industry as lockout/tag out and is used to
isolate machinery and equipment from energy source. It is important to ensure the
isolation of any unsafe machinery/equipment from potential uncontrolled energy sources
during repair, service or maintenance work.
• Isolation can be used as a standalone method of ensuring the safety of maintenance staff.
• The isolator should be in locked position (for example by a padlock) and a sign should be
used to indicate that maintenance work is in progress.
Any stored energy (hydraulic or pneumatic power for instance) should also be dissipated before
work starts. Before working on the equipment, it is essential that the effectiveness of the
isolation is verified by a suitably competent person. Minimum safety isolation procedure
includes the following:
After the primary work of problem diagnosis and identification has been carried out, the real task
of repairing the fault in the system must be undertaken, Appropriate techniques, tools and
procedures must be selected for each type of fault or component. The relevant safety precautions
must be taken when removing and replacing the faulty components.
When a certain component is found to be defective, it is necessary to first ascertain the cause of
the defect before replacing it with a new one. This is especially important in relation to blown
fuses, and shorted transistors. It is necessary to clear the fault that caused the fuse to blow or the
transistor to short before making the replacement
Electrical faults are a health Fault and safety hazard and could be putting your life in danger.
Whether in the home or work environment, electrical faults put people at risk of electrocution
and electrical fire. The problem must be solved by replacing only defective equipment or
components.
Procedure
• Analyse the symptoms of the electrical fault(s).
• Determine the type of electrical fault: open circuit, short circuit, insulation
breakdown.
• Design the most effective and efficient strategy to sol
• Explain to the customer exactly what needs fixing and the budget required
• Carry out the work with minimal disruption to the customer’s environment.
Recording repair activities
Maintenance workers and their supervisors need to follow some basic rules in order to ensure the
safe conduction of the work.
Planning
Maintenance can be seen as either reactive or proactive. Reactive maintenance means engaging
in maintenance activity to resolve equipment and machinery which are not functioning properly.
Proactive maintenance occurs when steps are taken to maintain, clean and ensure optimum
functioning of machinery and equipment to prevent lack of optimum functioning. Maintenance
and particularly proactive maintenance are important management issues:
The results of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment should enable to choose which good
practice measures are most appropriate in preventing risks in general and also in preventing risks
to any individuals identified as
Being particular risk. The implementation may mean making changes to the organisation and
working procedures, working environment, equipment and products used. Changes could also be
necessary in training management and staff as well as improving communications.
Based on the conducted risk assessment the following issues need special attention:
1. A qualification level has to be determined for the specific repair and maintenance tasks
2. Enough time and appropriate resources have to be allocated.
Providing a safe working area
Only authorised personnel should be allowed to do repair or maintenance work. This becomes all
the more important the machines and structures are more sophisticated. Only then can it be
guaranteed that the right steps are followed and the correct equipment is used.
Sometimes, it can be necessary to conduct the repair or maintenance work at running machines.
In this case special measures have to be taken. The normal safeguards should be in place and
should be used.
If that is not possible, special protection devices have to be used (special tools, mobile switches),
the speed of the machine has to be reduced, and special covers for dangerous areas have to be
provided.
▪ If this should, in some very special cases, not be possible, special measures have to be taken
based on a detailed risk assessment. Supervision must be provided throughout the process.
Work Execution
The work has to be conducted in a safe manner. Only workers with the appropriate qualification
should be allowed to conduct specified work (e.g. welders must not repair their welding
machines; this must be left to electricians; Site-specific instructions should also be given, which
is especially important in the case of contracted out maintenance. That way the workers will be
aware of any company specific characteristics.
Safe procedures need to be followed as established in the planning phase, even when under time
pressure. Procedures for unexpected events have to be in place: “Part of the safe system of work
should be to stop work when faced with an unforeseen problem or a problem exceeding one’s
own competence
9.2.3.5 Self-Assessment
Tools
• Stationery
• Cables
• Lubricants
• Service parts and components
Equipment
• IEE regulations
• Organizational procedures manual
• charts
9.2.3.7 Reference
• It is identified by finding the faulty part or component through visual inspection or tests
using instruments
b) State the general rule to be observed when selecting components for replacement
This section requires the trainee to test the repaired system. It involves identifying the test points,
carrying out test and recording the results
A report: is a short, sharp, concise document which with respect to the maintenance of the equip
Testing: the means by which the presence, quality or genuineness of anything is determined, a
means of trails
Parameters: a numerical or measurable factor forming one of a set that defines a system or sets
of conditions of its operation
Standards: something used as a measure norm or model in comparative evaluations
Identification of test and test points
Testing the system’s operation once the problem is “fixed” is the last step before signing off the
job ticket and walking away from a machine repair.
Meters and test equipment, as well as print tools, such as operating logs and schematics, will all
help you diagnose and solve electrical problems. The fundamental diagnostic tools and test
equipment are the voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter. The basic functions of these meters are
combined in a multimeter.
Test point
A test point is a location within an electronic circuit that is used to either monitor the state of the
circuitry or to inject test signals. Test points have two primary uses:
• During manufacturing they are used to verify that a newly assembled device is working
correctly. Any equipment that fails this testing is either discarded or sent to a rework station to
attempt to repair the manufacturing defects.
• After sale of the device to a customer, test points may be used at a later time to repair the
device if it malfunctions, or if the device needs to be re-calibrated after having components
replaced.
Test points can be labelled and may include pins for attachment of alligator clips or may have
complete connectors for test clips.
Modern miniature surface-mount electronics often simply have a row of unlabeled, tinned solder
pads. The device is placed into a test fixture that holds the device securely, and a special surface-
contact connector plate is pressed down onto the solder pads to connect them all as a group.
An excellent approach to implementing the use of test points is to follow the following 4-step
approach. It provides a systematic, organized methodology that will enable consistency in
utilizing test points across a range of different applications.
1. Define – The first step is to define a test point. A standard set of test point guidelines should
be developed which can be used to verify which artefacts/objects are determined to be test
points. And to help standardize the process of defining test points, test point detail &
summary templates should be created.
2. Create – This step involves identifying potential test points at detail level.
3. Validate and refine – The procedure of creating and implementing test points should
regularly be reviewed and refined. Creating firm timelines for the validation process —
once every quarter, for example, or upon the release of every 6 service packs — can help
assure consistency in the validate/refine process.
4. Implement and Measure – Implementing test points for a defined release should involve
conducting an impact analysis. It’s also a time to look for ways to improve the process –
searching for opportunities to increase test coverage, for example, or identifying
opportunities for improving test productivity. It can also be helpful to incorporate metric
impacts in a release scorecard.
Test parameters
It is the job of a test technician to know which piece of test equipment to use for the task at hand
and also understand the limitations of the test equipment they are using
Electrical testing in its most basic form is the act of applying a voltage or current to a circuit and
comparing the measured value to an expected result. Electrical test equipment verifies the math
behind a circuit and each piece of test equipment is designed for a specific application.
Electrical test equipment should be considered a source of lethal electrical energy. Technicians
must observe all safety warnings and follow all practical safety precautions to prevent contact
with energized parts of the equipment and related circuits, including the use of appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment.
Tests
a) Visual Inspection This is very important as approximately 90% of faults can be found by
this inspection alone. The Visual Inspection is not just an inspection; it basically is
‘everything but ‘what is done during the actual electrical testing process. This part of the
testing process may involve:
• Smelling
• Pulling on leads
• Tapping the appliance
• Shaking
• Turning some part/s
• Checking by trying to see that retractable guards actually retract and all manner of other
things may be done to ensure that it is safe to operate.
Test parameters
The use of test parameters is a powerful practice to enhance your testing scenarios. In other
words, the concept of parameters in testing is that your test cases may define and likewise use
some parameters. Scaling up your test cases effectively usually involves the practice of
parametrization.
10 Voltage
The a.c voltmeter may be used to test the presence and level of a.c supply and signal in electric
circuit. Care must be to use the correct range. In the case of mains voltages, all necessary safety
precautions must be observed to prevent electric shocks.
The d.c voltmeter functions used for testing voltage levels in electronic circuits, most
components failure in electronic circuits alter the d.c operating conditions of the circuit. intensity
in the range of 10 A with the accuracy of 1 μA, voltages in the range of 1 kV with the accuracy
of 1 μV
11 Resistance
The ohmmeter is useful for testing continuity of heating elements, stator, coils, armature winding
and operation of switches.
When tested with an ohmmeter, switches should show continuity in closed position. the
resistance of a closed circuit is zero. The resistance of an open switch is infinity. Any
intermediate resistance reading between switch contacts would indicate loose contact, the
presence of dirt or moisture.
12 Current
Just like the voltmeter the ammeter can be used to infer faults in system. In case of fault the
ammeter shows a higher-than-normal charge for longer, even though you know you have not
used more electricity
Testing
A final test should be done to ascertain that the equipment is functioning by the client. This is
done by connecting power supply to the equipment and manipulating its controls to ensure that
the equipment functions well at all settings
Documenting results
Maintenance and repair documentation must be updated frequently to reflect equipment upgrades
and technology advances, as well as changes in safety standards. For this reason, tracking
previous versions of documentation is yet another key consideration.
The aim of documentation is to give those carrying out the works the information they need.
Documents are also used to prepare cost estimates and to obtain tenders from potential
contractors. Documentation should be prepared by qualified specialists. The key to good
documentation is to correctly identify the problem to be solved, and hence to specify an
appropriate solution. The nature and extent of the work must then be clearly conveyed to those
who will do it. This information sheet discusses firstly what to document and secondly how. The
central maintenance and repair record can be used to keep track of all other maintenance,
including maintenance done by the in-house team, by vendors, or by service agents. The
information captured should include the date, the equipment reference number, what was done,
who did the work, and when next maintenance is due
A report is a short, sharp, concise document which is written for a particular purpose and
audience. It generally sets outs and analyses a situation or problem, often making
recommendations for future action. It is a factual paper, and needs to be clear and well-
structured.
The title should contain the information as to what the maintenance report is being created. Write
the name of your company and enter the logo as well. Write down the details as well, like the
address the contact details, email, etc.
On the next page include the cover letter. The person, depending on who your client is, might not
be able to make sense of the technical information that you might be presenting later. That is
why, in the cover letter, write down, in brief, the results of the checking. Mention what needs
repairing and other such basic details.
In the next section, write down in detail all the information related to the device or machine. List
out all the components and write down what condition they are in. You might want to make a
table for the purpose as it will help you to present and record the information in a much more
efficient way.
Write down the parts that need repairing. Some of the parts might need a full replacement. In
each case, there will be a charge incurred. It is convenient, just to put the information in this
document. Mention each of the charges clearly and separately. Write the total cost involved and
consider putting it in the cover letter as well.
Step 5: Suggestions and Signature
Despite repairing certain parts, there might be something on the client’s end that he can do to
squeeze some extra performance out of the machine. Also, you might have noticed some
negligence on the client’s part, which you might want to point out to him so that his machine
lasts longer. Finally, put your name and signature at the bottom.
Contact Details
Name
Date
Property Address
Date Received
Action Taken
Works Completed
a) Demonstrate how to carry out the final test after the equipment has been reassembled
b) Perform the final test on the repaired equipment
c) Prepare a report on the repair carried out
9.2.4.5 Self-Assessment
Tools
• Stationery
• Cables
• Lubricants
• Service parts and components
Equipment
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
Patil, M. B. (2004). Practical troubleshooting of electrical equipment and control circuits 1st
Edition. Newnes.
Scaddan, B. (2011). 17Edition IEE Wiring Regulations. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge.
Terrell Croft, W. S. (2013). American Electrician’s handbook 16th Edition. New York:
McGraw-Hill Education.
Self-Assessment
1. What is testing in electrical equipment –it makes sure that system work the way they are
supposed to
2. Name types of test carried
• -visual inspection,
• earth continuity
• insulation resistance,
• earth leakage, polarity
• loop impedance functional
• Multimeter
• Oscilloscope
• Signal generators
• Signal tracers
• The megger
CHAPTER 9: ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION BREAKDOWN MAINTENANCE
Unit of learning code: ENG/CU/EI/CR/05/5
Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard: This unit addresses the unit of
competency: Conduct Electrical Installation Breakdown Maintenance
• The necessary information about the failure is obtained from the user, as per set
procedures.
• Manuals for the system are referred to identify test points and measured parameters
where applicable.
Principle of operation
Usually, the identification of the symptoms only helps to suspect what items need to be checked
for malfunction. To properly identify fault in an electric circuit, you must know how each
electrical component in the unit should function and be able to evaluate the performance of each
component. Electrical records, prints, schematics, and manufacturers’ literature—combined with
your knowledge and experience—will help you determine how each component is expected to
operate. After determining the expected operating characteristics, the next step is to identify the
actual problem by finding the faulty part or component. this may be done by visual inspection or
test using instruments.
Some situations also require testing for power, power factor, frequency, phase rotation,
inductance, capacitance, and impedance
Visual inspection
Visual Inspection, or Visual Testing (VT), is the oldest and most basic method of inspection
Before actual electrical measurements and tests are considered, the defective equipment should
be visually inspected. Sometimes the problem will immediately appear and remedy quickly
applied to restore the equipment without much trouble. When conducting visual inspection, the
serviceman should look for broken wires, dry joints damaged printed circuits board trucks, burnt
or damaged components, displaced fuses and loose connections. Terminals should be inspected
and seen to be well secured. Visual inspection may be carried out when power is off and when it
is on. Visual inspection can be used for internal and external surface inspection of a variety of
equipment types, including storage tanks, pressure vessels, piping, and other equipment.
Interview of users
Many machine operators are responsible for performing safety or quality checks on their
equipment prior to putting it to use each day. It there important to interview them to understand
the probable cause of the problem questions may include
Types of failures
Electrical networks, machines and equipment are often subjected to various types of faults while
they are in operation. When a fault occurs, the characteristic values (such as impedance) of the
machines may change from existing values to different values till the fault is cleared After all the
symptoms have been accurately noted, performance test of the equipment should be carried out.
By doing this, the repair serviceman may discover other symptoms that the client may not have
known, or been able to communicate on the account of little technical understanding. In some
cases, a system may be reported faulty while in fact the failure is the result of incorrect operation
due to the customer not being well conversant with his equipment.
Partial Failures
Failure exists in varying degrees but in the most basic terms, Partial failure simply means that
some of system, component, or device can no longer produce specific desired results. Even if a
piece of manufacturing equipment is still running and producing items, it has failed if it doesn’t
deliver the expected quantities.
Total failure
Total failure means that most of the system, component, or device can no longer produce specific
desired results. This lead to slow down of operation for the machine can no longer produce
Manuals
A service manual is a collection of technical data and information for a specific model of
equipment. It is compiled and supplied by the manufacture for use when servicing the
equipment.
• Description of specification
• Performance specifications
• Block diagrams
• Schematic diagrams
• Components layout
• Hints on maintenance
• Procedures for dismantling, testing, and fault diagnosis
• Fault location guides
• Mechanical layout of the entire equipment
• Spare part lists
NB
Use of a service manual turns what could otherwise be an infuriating guessing game to a quick
straight forward repair job
9.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
Tools
• Stationery
• Lubricants
• Service parts
Equipment
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
This section requires the trainee to select the right instruments for trouble shooting faulty
electrical system. It involves taking the necessary safety procedure and use the correct tools and
equipment to diagnose and record failure results
Definitions of terms
Trouble shoot: is the process of identifying planning and resolving a problem in a mechanical or
electronics system
Failure diagnosis: is the process of tracing a fault by means of its symptoms, applying
knowledge, and analyzing test results
Parameters: a limit or boundary which defines a scope or particular process or activity
Systems: a set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or interconnecting network
Failure: the fact of system not working, or stopping working as well as it should
Closed circuit: means a complete electrical connection around which current flows or circulate
Open Circuit - any break (open) in the current path of a series circuit makes the entire circuit
inoperative. In a parallel circuit, only the branch effected by the open is inoperative.
Short Circuit - this can be a short-to-ground or short-to-voltage. This may cause a component to
continuously operate regardless of switch position, or a fuse to repeatedly blow, depending on
the fault
Earth Fault is an inadvertent fault between the live conductor and the earth
Records: a piece of information or a description of an event that is written on paper or store on a
computer
Specification: it is made exactly as the person who designed it said it should be done
Conducting fault diagnosis
Introduction
The ability to rapidly diagnose the case of faults in electrical and electronics system is an
important skill for every electrician. The use of electrical and electronics equipment in domestic
and industrial situations is increasing rapidly. It is therefore important that the electrician or
electronic technician be able to repair and service them.
Naturally, fault diagnosis skills are not achieved easily. Trouble shooting and repair should be a
logical step by step procedure not a haphazard, hit and miss trial and error practice. A good
understanding of component and circuit operation together with sound instruments is prerequisite
to successful servicing. in addition, the defective equipment, components and diagnostic tools.
a service technician cannot repair and service electrical gadgets profitably without the
appropriate service instruments. However, having the instruments is not enough, the technician
must know their specifications and understand their uses. The ability to use measuring
instruments and apply appropriate testing methods greatly assist in accurate pinpointing of faults
in components and circuits.
The test instruments considered may include multimeter , cathode ray oscilloscope and the
megger.
Open Circuits
Current will only flow in a circuit. That is, around a continuous path (or multiple paths) from and
back to the source of electromagnetic force (EMF). Any interruption in the circuit, such as an
open switch, a break in the wiring, or a component such as a resistor that has changed its
resistance to an extremely high value will cause current to cease. The EMF will still be present,
but voltages and currents around the circuit will have changed or ceased altogether. The open
switch or the fault has caused what is commonly called an open circuit.
Basically, an open circuit fault is any fault that will halt the operation of a machine due to an
open component
Electrical Troubleshooting an Open Circuit The best method for diagnosing an open circuit is by
measuring voltage. When that is not possible, measure resistance following the steps below.
Short circuit
A short circuit is an electrical circuit that allows a current to travel along an unintended path with
no or very low electrical impedance. This results in excessive current flowing through the circuit
There are several causes for short circuits, including three that are most often to blame.
Old or damaged insulation may allow neutral and hot wires to touch, which can cause a short
circuit. Nail and screw punctures, as well as age, can cause wire casings or insulation to
deteriorate and create short circuits. Or, if animal pests such as mice, rats, or squirrels gnaw on
circuit wiring, the inner wire conductors can be exposed to cause short circuits.
Attachments can loosen, sometimes allowing neutral and live wires to touch. Fixing faulty wire
connections is tricky and is best handled by those thoroughly familiar with wiring work.
When an appliance is plugged into a wall outlet, its wiring effectively becomes an extension of
the circuit, and any problems in the appliance wiring become circuit problems. Old or broken
appliances can develop inner short circuits over time. Short circuits in appliances can occur in
the plugs, in the power cords, or inside the device itself. It’s best to have a technician look at
shorts in larger appliances such as ovens and dishwashers. Smaller appliances such as lamps
often can be rewired yourself.
Effects
7. Locate the tripped circuit breaker: At the main service panel, look for an individual
8. Circuit breaker with a handle that has snapped to the OFF position. Some breakers may have
a red or orange window indicator to make it easy to spot. This tripped breaker will identify the
circuit where the problem exists. Leave the circuit breaker OFF as you inspect along the circuit.
9. Inspect appliance power cords: Inspect all the power cords plugged into outlets along the
circuit that has tripped. If you find any that are damaged or on which the plastic insulation has
melted, there is a good chance the short circuit is within the appliance or device itself. Unplug
these appliances from the circuit. If you find suspect appliances, switch the circuit breaker back
on after unplugging them. If the circuit now remains active without tripping again, it is very
certain that your problem existed in the appliance. However, if the circuit breaker trips again
immediately, proceed to the next step.
10. Turn off all light and appliance switches along the circuit. Then, turn the circuit breaker back
to the ON position.
11. Turn on each light switch or appliance switch, one at a time. If you reach a switch that
causes the circuit breaker to trip again, you have identified the section of circuit wiring where
a loose connection or wiring problem exists.
12. Repair the circuit wiring problem. This is a step that may require the help of a professional
electrician. Do not attempt this unless you are very confident about your knowledge and skill
level. This repair will involve shutting off the circuit, then opening up outlet and switch boxes
to inspect the wires and wire connections and making any repairs that are necessary.
Earth fault
A direct earth fault at a given subscriber in a transformer circuit will not normally affect the
other subscribers connected to the same circuit provided that the earthing system for the
individual installation satisfies current requirements. The individual owner/user is responsible for
reporting the fault and having it repaired by an authorized electrical contractor. There is a
requirement for earth fault
4. Earth faults occur when the hot wire or live wire comes into contact with the ground wire
5. Moisture in the Receptacle Box. The accumulation of moisture is another major cause
6. Overloaded Circuit. Circuit overload occurs when more amperage flows through
iv. Locate the problem. Many homes are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters or
GFCI outlets. These outlets detect ground faults and shut off power to the affected circuit.
Some models alert homeowners with a light or by tripping a reset switch on the outlet.
Look for these alerts to locate the ground fault. If your home doesn’t have GFCI-
equipped outlets, look at your breaker box. Tripped breakers will be in the off position.
It’s important to note that ground faults don’t always trip breakers. If your electrical issue
is overloading breakers, you could be dealing with an electrical short or too many
appliances running on the same circuit.
v. Disconnect your appliances. Unplug your appliances from the outlet and reset the breaker
or GFCI.
vi. Plug in your appliances. Plug each item back into the outlet until it trips again. This will
determine which appliance is causing the ground fault. If nothing trips your outlet, or if
your outlet doesn’t reset, your ground fault is likely located in another part of your home.
Call a professional to look. Faults can occur due to other outlets leaking current,
problems with exterior circuits, and other faulty appliances.
Mechanical fault
A machine that has been designed and manufactured to perform a certain function, is expected to
do so when installed in a plant for its designed life span. However, for reasons beyond one’s
control, such a machine may fail to do so for several reasons including
Excessive component heating are signs that something is going in the wrong direction. In the
case of non-typical vibrations, the main causes are:
Before you tackle any electrical project, having the proper tools is essential to getting the job
done efficiently, correctly, and more importantly, safely! The old saying, use the right tool for
the job, couldn’t be more relevant, especially when it comes to electrical work.
Cordless Screwdriver/Drill
If you are going to take on any project beyond the most basic of jobs, such as, for example,
changing out an individual receptacle or switch, you should have a good cordless drill and driver
tool, along with a complete set of screwdriver bits and drill bits. This will save you a lot of time
and when used properly, a power driver can be used in place of a screwdriver for most jobs.
I recommend purchasing a driver and drill instead of a basic cordless screwdriver as the quality
is usually better, and one tool will perform both functions. Get the best quality you can afford,
and make sure it has a 1/2″drive, and that is has sufficient power to drill a 1″ hole using an auger
bit.
If you will be using it a lot as a screwdriver, then give some consideration to the weight and size
when selecting the tool.
Electric Drill
For larger projects, with a lot of drilling required (wood studs, etc.), then an electric drill is more
practical. A 1/2″ medium duty drill is a minimum for driving a wood auger bit.
Knife
You will need to have a good knife, and I prefer a standard utility knife for stripping the PVC
jacket from Romex, stripping large gauge wire, and for many other jobs as well.
Wire Strippers
Have a good quality wire stripper. I prefer a T-Stripper with a wire cutter, light-duty plier nose,
and holes for bending termination loops on wires for most home electrical work. A combination
crimper, cutter, stripper, bolt cutter and more, like those found in automotive electrical repair kits
can be very handy as well, but the multi-purpose aspect means that the wire stripping function is
compromised.
A mechanical wire stripper does a really good job, especially for commercial or industrial
applications.
Lineman’s Plier
A lineman’s plier, or a bull nose plier with a wire cutter, and at least 8″or 9″ handles is also an
essential part of the electrical tool list. We use these for cutting, bending, twisting wires, etc.
Standard, Long-Nosed Pliers
Also known as needle-nosed pliers. These tools are also very handy to have as a part of your
electrical tool kit. They should have wire cutting knives as well.
Hammer
Have a good quality, 16oz. claw hammer. You will need this for driving staples, nails, etc.
Tape Measure
Have a good quality, locking tape measure and a 25’length, 1″ blade is maybe over-kill, but will
come in handy for other projects around the home.
Level
A 6″ plastic torpedo level is essential for levelling outlet boxes, cover plates, wall fixtures,
etc. A plastic level is less likely to leave marks.
Always check to make sure the level is indeed “level”. Before purchasing, check on a flat
surface and note the position of the bubble, even if not quite at center. Then flip the level end for
end in the exact same location and see if the bubble is in the same spot. You would be surprised
how many you will find that don’t pass this test. Especially in the lower quality price range.
Crescent wrench
Have one or two sizes of crescent wrenches in your kit.
Pump Pliers
Very handy, and essential if you are working with conduit, such as, flexible conduit.
Pipe Wrench
Essential if working with conduit
Electrical Tape
Every electrical tool kit should have at least a roll of black electrical tape, and having a few
colours like red and blue helps as well for identifying wires, etc.
Duct Tape
Every tool kit, electrical or otherwise, must have the universal repair tool that is a roll of duct
tape!
Flashlight/Headlamp
For when you need some extra light for dark places, or when the power is off while working on
existing systems.
Micrometer
A micrometer can be used to measure small and large sizes of wires, it is also used to remove the
diameter of circular wires. A micrometer can measure the diameter of thin wire accurately or
thickness of sheet metal.
Wrenches
Wrenches are instruments that can be used to turn nuts or hold the piece of stock when tightening
screws, nuts, and bolts. There are different types of wrenches like adjustable wrenches, pipe
wrench, vice grip wrench.
Specification of Tools
Electrical engineers are required to work in hazardous environments near energized equipment.
There are certain tools they require to carry out their job effectively and safely without causing
any harm to themselves and those around them. Here’s a sneak peek into some electrical
engineering tools and their uses.
As with any tool purchase, you'll get longer life and better performance from higher-quality
tools. Better electrical hand tools, such as wire cutters and linesman pliers, have insulated
handles to help guard against shock.
Fault records are one of the most important pieces of evidence that event analysts can have
during system event investigations. They can provide the reasons for premature equipment
failure, supply waveforms and status of equipment behavior during an event, and give necessary
information to perform post-fault event analysis. Proper use and interpretation of event records
can lead to corrective action for a given system problem resulting in improved performance and
reliability of any generation, transmission, and distribution system. Fault recording has been used
for decades now, and it is generally used for the following purposes:
d) Demonstrate the use of ohmmeter in testing for continuity short and open circuits
e) Demonstrate the use of voltmeter in measuring voltages in circuits
f) The trainees to carry out activities involving the use of the multimeter function in carrying
various tests
iv. The trainer to construct a single stage amplifier as shown in figure 1 below
v. Ascertain the normal working voltages
vi. Simulate the following problems in sequence to demonstrate how the voltages
levels will be affected
• R1 0pen circuit
• R2 10pen circuit
• R3 0pen circuit
• R4 0pen circuit
• B-E Junction shorted
• C-B Junction shorted
• Collector
The trainer should record the results and then then help the trainee to interpret the cause of
changes in the circuit voltage level
R1 R3
47 KΩ 2KΩ
C2 10uf
C1
10uf
560 Ω C3 33uf
R2 5.6KΩ R4
Table
Figure 3: Voltage
1: Single stagelevels
amplifier
NO VB VE VC Remarks
ix. Normal
x. R1
xi. R2
xii. R3
xiii. R4
xiv. B-E junction shorted
xv. C-B junction shorted
xvi. Collector open
9.2.2.5 Self-Assessment
• Stationery
• Electrical component
9.2.2.7 References
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
Patil, M. B. (2004). Practical troubleshooting of electrical equipment and control circuits 1st
Edition. Newnes.
Answers to self-assessment
k) Examples include such items as gloves, foot and eye protections, protective hearing
devices and hats, respirators and full body suits
l) Discus how to deduce what actual faults could possibly be
m) ) Discus the tree functions of a multimeter
n) Discus the appropriate ohmmeter ranges for testing different components
9.2.3 Learning Outcome 3: Repair the installation
9.2.3.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
This section requires the trainee to repair a faulty electrical system using the correct set of tools,
equipment, materials and observing all the safety procedures
Definitions of terms
• Repair/replace
• Meaning of repair
Prior to beginning work on any installation, regulation 14 of Electricity at work Regulation 1989
require that three conditions must be met These include
• The isolation process which is also known in industry as lockout/tag out and is used to
isolate machinery and equipment from energy source. It is important to ensure the
isolation of any unsafe machinery/equipment from potential uncontrolled energy sources
during repair, service or maintenance work.
• Isolation can be used as a standalone method of ensuring the safety of maintenance staff.
• The isolator should be in locked position (for example by a padlock) and a sign should be
used to indicate that maintenance work is in progress.
Any stored energy (hydraulic or pneumatic power for instance) should also be dissipated before
work starts. Before working on the equipment, it is essential that the effectiveness of the
isolation is verified by a suitably competent person. Minimum safety isolation procedure
includes the following:
After the primary work of problem diagnosis and identification has been carried out, the real task
of repairing the fault in the system must be undertaken, Appropriate techniques, tools and
procedures must be selected for each type of fault or component. The relevant safety precautions
must be taken when removing and replacing the faulty components.
When a certain component is found to be defective, it is necessary to first ascertain the cause of
the defect before replacing it with a new one. This is especially important in relation to blown
fuses, and shorted transistors. It is necessary to clear the fault that caused the fuse to blow or the
transistor to short before making the replacement
Electrical faults are a health Fault and safety hazard and could be putting your life in danger.
Whether in the home or work environment, electrical faults put people at risk of electrocution
and electrical fire. The problem must be solved by replacing only defective equipment or
components.
Procedure
• Analyse the symptoms of the electrical fault(s).
• Determine the type of electrical fault: open circuit, short circuit, insulation
breakdown.
• Design the most effective and efficient strategy to sol
• Explain to the customer exactly what needs fixing and the budget required
• Carry out the work with minimal disruption to the customer’s environment.
Recording repair activities
Maintenance workers and their supervisors need to follow some basic rules in order to ensure the
safe conduction of the work.
Planning
Maintenance can be seen as either reactive or proactive. Reactive maintenance means engaging
in maintenance activity to resolve equipment and machinery which are not functioning properly.
Proactive maintenance occurs when steps are taken to maintain, clean and ensure optimum
functioning of machinery and equipment to prevent lack of optimum functioning. Maintenance
and particularly proactive maintenance are important management issues:
The results of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment should enable to choose which good
practice measures are most appropriate in preventing risks in general and also in preventing risks
to any individuals identified as
Being particular risk. The implementation may mean making changes to the organisation and
working procedures, working environment, equipment and products used. Changes could also be
necessary in training management and staff as well as improving communications.
Based on the conducted risk assessment the following issues need special attention:
3. A qualification level has to be determined for the specific repair and maintenance tasks
4. Enough time and appropriate resources have to be allocated.
Only authorised personnel should be allowed to do repair or maintenance work. This becomes all
the more important the machines and structures are more sophisticated. Only then can it be
guaranteed that the right steps are followed and the correct equipment is used.
Sometimes, it can be necessary to conduct the repair or maintenance work at running machines.
In this case special measures have to be taken. The normal safeguards should be in place and
should be used.
If that is not possible, special protection devices have to be used (special tools, mobile switches),
the speed of the machine has to be reduced, and special covers for dangerous areas have to be
provided.
▪ If this should, in some very special cases, not be possible, special measures have to be taken
based on a detailed risk assessment. Supervision must be provided throughout the process.
Work Execution
The work has to be conducted in a safe manner. Only workers with the appropriate qualification
should be allowed to conduct specified work (e.g. welders must not repair their welding
machines; this must be left to electricians; Site-specific instructions should also be given, which
is especially important in the case of contracted out maintenance. That way the workers will be
aware of any company specific characteristics.
Safe procedures need to be followed as established in the planning phase, even when under time
pressure. Procedures for unexpected events have to be in place: “Part of the safe system of work
should be to stop work when faced with an unforeseen problem or a problem exceeding one’s
own competence
9.2.3.5 Self-Assessment
Tools
• Set of screw drivers
• Pliers
• Phase testers
• Multimeter
Materials and supplies
• Stationery
• Cables
• Lubricants
• Service parts and components
Equipment
• IEE regulations
• Organizational procedures manual
• charts
9.2.3.7 Reference
• It is identified by finding the faulty part or component through visual inspection or tests
using instruments
e) State the general rule to be observed when selecting components for replacement
• The component must have the same or higher performance characteristics
This section requires the trainee to test the repaired system. It involves identifying the test points,
carrying out test and recording the results
• Appropriate tests and test points are identified Safety procedures are adhered to
• System is tested as per test procedure
• Test results are recorded according to the established procedures
• Parameters are compared against the standard values
• Maintenance report is prepared according to approved format
Definitions of terms
A report: is a short, sharp, concise document which with respect to the maintenance of the equip
Testing: the means by which the presence, quality or genuineness of anything is determined, a
means of trails
Parameters: a numerical or measurable factor forming one of a set that defines a system or sets
of conditions of its operation
Standards: something used as a measure norm or model in comparative evaluations
Identification of test and test points
Testing the system’s operation once the problem is “fixed” is the last step before signing off the
job ticket and walking away from a machine repair.
Meters and test equipment, as well as print tools, such as operating logs and schematics, will all
help you diagnose and solve electrical problems. The fundamental diagnostic tools and test
equipment are the voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter. The basic functions of these meters are
combined in a multimeter.
Test point
A test point is a location within an electronic circuit that is used to either monitor the state of the
circuitry or to inject test signals. Test points have two primary uses:
• During manufacturing they are used to verify that a newly assembled device is working
correctly. Any equipment that fails this testing is either discarded or sent to a rework station to
attempt to repair the manufacturing defects.
• After sale of the device to a customer, test points may be used at a later time to repair the
device if it malfunctions, or if the device needs to be re-calibrated after having components
replaced.
Test points can be labelled and may include pins for attachment of alligator clips or may have
complete connectors for test clips.
Modern miniature surface-mount electronics often simply have a row of unlabeled, tinned solder
pads. The device is placed into a test fixture that holds the device securely, and a special surface-
contact connector plate is pressed down onto the solder pads to connect them all as a group.
An excellent approach to implementing the use of test points is to follow the following 4-step
approach. It provides a systematic, organized methodology that will enable consistency in
utilizing test points across a range of different applications.
5. Define – The first step is to define a test point. A standard set of test point guidelines should
be developed which can be used to verify which artefacts/objects are determined to be test
points. And to help standardize the process of defining test points, test point detail &
summary templates should be created.
6. Create – This step involves identifying potential test points at detail level.
7. Validate and refine – The procedure of creating and implementing test points should
regularly be reviewed and refined. Creating firm timelines for the validation process —
once every quarter, for example, or upon the release of every 6 service packs — can help
assure consistency in the validate/refine process.
8. Implement and Measure – Implementing test points for a defined release should involve
conducting an impact analysis. It’s also a time to look for ways to improve the process –
searching for opportunities to increase test coverage, for example, or identifying
opportunities for improving test productivity. It can also be helpful to incorporate metric
impacts in a release scorecard.
Test parameters
It is the job of a test technician to know which piece of test equipment to use for the task at hand
and also understand the limitations of the test equipment they are using
Electrical testing in its most basic form is the act of applying a voltage or current to a circuit and
comparing the measured value to an expected result. Electrical test equipment verifies the math
behind a circuit and each piece of test equipment is designed for a specific application.
Electrical test equipment should be considered a source of lethal electrical energy. Technicians
must observe all safety warnings and follow all practical safety precautions to prevent contact
with energized parts of the equipment and related circuits, including the use of appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment.
Tests
f) Visual Inspection This is very important as approximately 90% of faults can be found by
this inspection alone. The Visual Inspection is not just an inspection; it basically is
‘everything but ‘what is done during the actual electrical testing process. This part of the
testing process may involve:
• Smelling
• Pulling on leads
• Tapping the appliance
• Shaking
• Turning some part/s
• Checking by trying to see that retractable guards actually retract and all manner of other
things may be done to ensure that it is safe to operate.
Test parameters
The use of test parameters is a powerful practice to enhance your testing scenarios. In other
words, the concept of parameters in testing is that your test cases may define and likewise use
some parameters. Scaling up your test cases effectively usually involves the practice of
parametrization.
• Voltage
The a.c voltmeter may be used to test the presence and level of a.c supply and signal in electric
circuit. Care must be to use the correct range. In the case of mains voltages, all necessary safety
precautions must be observed to prevent electric shocks.
The d.c voltmeter functions used for testing voltage levels in electronic circuits, most
components failure in electronic circuits alter the d.c operating conditions of the circuit. intensity
in the range of 10 A with the accuracy of 1 μA, voltages in the range of 1 kV with the accuracy
of 1 μV
• Resistance
The ohmmeter is useful for testing continuity of heating elements, stator, coils, armature winding
and operation of switches.
When tested with an ohmmeter, switches should show continuity in closed position. the
resistance of a closed circuit is zero. The resistance of an open switch is infinity. Any
intermediate resistance reading between switch contacts would indicate loose contact, the
presence of dirt or moisture.
• Current
Just like the voltmeter the ammeter can be used to infer faults in system. In case of fault the
ammeter shows a higher than normal charge for longer, even though you know you have not
used more electricity
Testing
A final test should be done to ascertain that the equipment is functioning by the client. This is
done by connecting power supply to the equipment and manipulating its controls to ensure that
the equipment functions well at all settings
Documenting results
Maintenance and repair documentation must be updated frequently to reflect equipment upgrades
and technology advances, as well as changes in safety standards. For this reason, tracking
previous versions of documentation is yet another key consideration.
The aim of documentation is to give those carrying out the works the information they need.
Documents are also used to prepare cost estimates and to obtain tenders from potential
contractors. Documentation should be prepared by qualified specialists. The key to good
documentation is to correctly identify the problem to be solved, and hence to specify an
appropriate solution. The nature and extent of the work must then be clearly conveyed to those
who will do it. This information sheet discusses firstly what to document and secondly how. The
central maintenance and repair record can be used to keep track of all other maintenance,
including maintenance done by the in-house team, by vendors, or by service agents. The
information captured should include the date, the equipment reference number, what was done,
who did the work, and when next maintenance is due
A report is a short, sharp, concise document which is written for a particular purpose and
audience. It generally sets outs and analyses a situation or problem, often making
recommendations for future action. It is a factual paper, and needs to be clear and well-
structured.
The title should contain the information as to what the maintenance report is being created. Write
the name of your company and enter the logo as well. Write down the details as well, like the
address the contact details, email, etc.
On the next page include the cover letter. The person, depending on who your client is, might not
be able to make sense of the technical information that you might be presenting later. That is
why, in the cover letter, write down, in brief, the results of the checking. Mention what needs
repairing and other such basic details.
In the next section, write down in detail all the information related to the device or machine. List
out all the components and write down what condition they are in. You might want to make a
table for the purpose as it will help you to present and record the information in a much more
efficient way.
Despite repairing certain parts, there might be something on the client’s end that he can do to
squeeze some extra performance out of the machine. Also, you might have noticed some
negligence on the client’s part, which you might want to point out to him so that his machine
lasts longer. Finally, put your name and signature at the bottom.
Maintenance Report Form Template
Contact Details
Name
Date
Property Address
Date Received
Action Taken
Works Completed
d) Demonstrate how to carry out the final test after the equipment has been reassembled
e) Perform the final test on the repaired equipment
f) Prepare a report on the repair carried out
9.2.4.5 Self-Assessment
Tools
• Stationery
• Cables
• Lubricants
• Service parts and components
Equipment
KLB. (2010). Trouble Shooting, Repair and Service. In KLB, KLB Electricity Level 4 (pp. 118-
147). Nairobi: KLB.
Patil, M. B. (2004). Practical troubleshooting of electrical equipment and control circuits 1st
Edition. Newnes.
Self-Assessment
4. What is testing in electrical equipment –
• it makes sure that system work the way they are supposed to
• -visual inspection,
• earth continuity
• insulation resistance,
• earth leakage, polarity
• loop impedance functional
• Multimeter
• Oscilloscope
• Signal generators
• Signal tracers
• The megger