Understanding Panel Switches and Panel Boards

Electrical components are a part of our everyday lives in both residential and commercial use.  The problem is that most of us don’t understand the basic concepts that are used within the industry.  This leads to inefficiency and delay when an electrical system fails and is in need of repair.  Having a basic understanding of the various electrical components that are used in everyday life will help in cases of a system failure.  The more you know the easier it will be to help come to a resolution to get the system restored. 

One component that is often ignored is the panel board even though they are used throughout in providing electricity in residential, commercial and industrial facilities.  Without the panel board, often referred to as the power distribution panel, electrical power could not safely be distributed through the facility be it your home or business. 

In residential use the power we receive is purchased from a local utility company and is processed into our homes through a meter device located on the outside of our homes.  The power enters the system and is distributed from there to various circuit systems throughout the home.  This is how electrical power is distributed to various parts of the house to power electrical outlets, lights and appliances that are located throughout the house.

In commercial and industrial settings the power distribution is a bit more complex.  The system is complex and consists of a device to measure power consumption, disconnects, switching devices, conductors and transformers.  The power is then distributed through various switchboards, transformers and panel boards.  A distribution system that is solid and works well is something that doesn’t just happened it is planned out and carefully put together.  The distribution center must be engineered carefully in order to safely and adequately provide electrical services to the current electrical load and possible expansion. 

A panel board is a single panel or group of panel units that forms a single unit of bus plugs, switches and over current devices.  They are used to control light, heat or power circuits.  They are often placed in a cabinet or a cutout box and can be mounted in or against a wall.  The panel board is only accessible from the front. 

Electrical components such as transformers, switches, breaker panels, panel boards and more are a part of our everyday lives.  They are hidden and as long as we are receiving uninterrupted supplies of electricity we aren’t concerned with how it is occurring.  This is incredibly naive though because we know that any system with multiple components will eventually break down and need to be replaced.  With a little bit of knowledge of electrical components and electrical systems you will be well on your way to understanding what part of the puzzle has broken down.  This will help you narrow down what needs to be replaced within the system to fix the issue.  

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Understanding Fuses Within Electrical Components

There is a lot to learn about the various electrical components that are used throughout residential and commercial buildings.  Many older homes and businesses use wiring and electrical systems that require the use of fuses.  The one thing to remember when it comes to fuse systems is that you never want to use a fuse that has an amperage rating that is higher than what is specified for the system.  To test fuse continuity you will want to use a multi tester.  Take the multi tester and press one end to the center contact while the other one is pressed to the screw shell.

It is important to understand the variety of fuses available and to be able to identify them in case you ever need to replace one.  Fuses are used in automobiles, appliances, circuit breakers and a variety of other electrical components around both residential and commercial settings.

The most common type of fuse is a low voltage fuse.  You will see low voltage fuses used in many electronic appliances and entertainment gadgets.  This type of fuse is available in ratings up to twenty amperes.  A fuse of this type can signal a short circuit in the wiring system or a system overload.

Standard plug fuses are the type of fuses used most often in service panels.  Most often standard plug fuses are used to power small appliances and basic lighting fixtures.  You will find standard plug fuses in amperes ratings of fifteen, twenty and thirty.  This is dependent upon the gauge of the wire that is found in the circuit.  As with a low voltage fuse, standard plug fuses are used t signal a short in the system as well as an overloaded circuit. 

Another common fuse used in residential service panels is a time delay fuse. Similar to a standard plug fuse, time delay fuses come in amperes with ratings of fifteen, twenty and thirty.  The unique quality of time delay fuses is that they can withstand a small power surge, such as a startup of a motor.  They are the fuses used to signal short circuits, circuits that are overloaded and sustained circuits.

A type-s fuse is used for powering up small light fixtures and small appliances.  There is only a slight difference between type-s fuses and the standard plug fuse is that the type-s fuse can guard against the accidental installation of a fuse that has an amperage rating to high for the circuit.  This type of fuse fits an adapter that screws into a service panel.  The adapter only fits into type-s fuses with matching amperage.

The ferrule type cartridge is used in fuse type service panels.  They are used to power major appliances and are available in ratings up to sixty amperes that suit the gauge of wire in the circuit.  The fuse can withstand a small surge, can signal a circuit that has become overloaded, a short or sustained circuit.

The last type of fuse to discuss is the knife blade cartridge fuse.  This is the type of fuse used when more than sixty amperes are needed to protect the electrical system of homes.  The knife blade cartridge fuse can withstand momentary power surges.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Guide to Buying An Electrical Circuit Breaker

A large safety concern in both residential and commercial buildings is overloading or causing a short circuit within the electrical circuit.  The component that is used to prevent this from occurring is an electrical circuit breaker.  A circuit breaker is used to protect the circuits within your home or business.  If a fault is detected within the circuit the system will cause a break in the electrical current flow causing the system to come to a halt.

The type of circuit breaker you choose to purchase will depend on a number of things.  In order to purchase the correct electrical circuit breaker you need to clearly understand your needs and the needs that will be placed on the system.  When purchasing a new or refurbished circuit breaker, your electrical supplier will discuss several factors with you to help you select the best breaker for your needs.

The first thing an electrical supply company will ask you about when purchasing a circuit breaker is the amount of electricity that will be flowing through the breaker.  The voltage load of the circuit breaker you choose will depend heavily on the equipment that will be used on the circuit as well as the overall load of electricity that will run through the circuit.

There are three main voltage categories when it comes to circuit breakers.  Low voltage circuit breakers are used in residential electrical circuits.  A low voltage electrical circuit breaker works best in households and can handle a max load of 1000 volts.  Medium electrical circuit breakers are suitable for buildings and office settings.  A medium breaker is good for use when voltage requirements are between 1000 and 72,000 volts.  Large electrical circuit breakers handle voltage loads upwards of 72,000.  Large breakers are typically used for high voltage power transmission lines.

The next consideration of various circuit breakers is the mounting style.  The two main components are fixed mounted circuit breakers and removable mounted circuit breakers.  A fixed mounted circuit breaker is mounted so that it cannot be removed without removing the main connections and mounting supports.  A removable mounted circuit breaker has two parts, the base and the actual breaker.  The base is bolted and hardwired to the frame where is the breaker is plugged into the base.  This system can be replaced without having to rewire.

Another consideration is the type of trip unit you would like the breaker to be on.  There are two main types of trip units, magnetic and thermal.  Also consider the operating temperature range when purchasing an electrical circuit breaker.  Different components work better than others at different temperature ranges.

The best place to purchase an electrical circuit breaker is with the help of an online new, used and refurbished electrical component supplier.  They will have the best inventory in stock and are familiar with a variety of circumstances.  Use their experience to help you choose the best circuit breaker for your commercial or residential use.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Understanding Circuit Breaker Voltage

Circuit breakers are an electrical device that is used to automatically break a path that has become overloaded. They are used to prevent major fires or electrical disasters to your home or business as a safety precaution. In order to decide what breaker is the perfect choice for your needs you will need to consider the voltage that you will be using, the point at which you wish the circuit to trip and the overload protection needed.

The most common type of breaker that is used is a low voltage breaker which is ideal for residential use. There are several different types of breakers, low voltage are just the most common. Low voltage circuit breakers are easy to install because using them only requires the installation of one general breaker panel.

There are other types of circuit breakers including miniature circuit breakers, molded case circuit breakers, medium voltage circuit breakers and high voltage breakers. Depending on your need, commercial or residential, will depend on which type of breaker will be best for you.

Miniature circuit breakers are the lowest voltage breaker that is available. They are known to carry electricity of only 100 amps. Miniature circuit breakers are capable of holding electrical charges of no more than 1,000 amps.

Molded case circuit breakers are the ideal breaker for 1,000 amps of electricity. They safely disconnect when that goes beyond ten times the capacity. They are often called magnetic circuit breakers. They are called this because they use electromagnetic power solenoid’s to break the circuit when the flow exceeds capacity.

A medium voltage breaker has a capacity of between 1,000 and 72,000 amps before they break. The performance is relative to which brand and model you choose. You will often see these breakers used in larger buildings and businesses. You will find them in cabinets indoors and switchboxes which are enclosed. There are three breaker sub types within the medium voltage breaker category: SF6, air and sub-type breakers.

High voltage circuit breakers are those that are capable of holding more than 72,500 volts of electricity. These breakers are usually found outdoors with high voltage power lines. These circuits are controlled with a solenoid switch that activates the arc-chamber when too much electricity flows through.

When considering a breaker it is important to consider the voltage as well as the trip point. The trip point when the breaker will trip should be set at a point comfortable that it prevents your wiring from overheating. When your breaker is overloaded you want to be sure it trips and electricity current is no longer flowing. This is crucial to prevent major electrical accidents and fire from overloaded circuits.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Electrical Disconnects

There is so much to learn about the vast array of electrical components that are used in our everyday lives.  One of the systems that is critical in electrical circuits is the disconnect switch.  A disconnect switch is used to interrupt the power running to an electrical circuit or group of circuits.  Disconnects provide safety in a wide variety of settings in which they are used.  In commercial and residential applications disconnects are used to de-energize the circuit in order for it to be worked on safely.  In order to be one hundred percent effective it must be installed and maintained properly.  It also requires that safety procedures are followed and proper education is provided for those in charge of operating it. 

In commercial use, disconnects are used for power distribution.  Disconnect manages the distribution of power throughout the plant.  If one area of the planet needs more electricity, disconnects allow the flow of electricity to be switched.  This enables one area to have use of more electricity than another area.  If a section of the plant needs maintenance, disconnects allow power to be shut down in that section and remain on in other areas.  Disconnects are used for safety as well.  If the power is needed to be shut down in the entire plant all at once disconnects are locked out.  This also saves them from accidentally being turned on before the area is secure and ready.

Lockout systems are important because they prevent the system from being turned on without being ready.  There are different times in which disconnects are used.  One is in need of maintenance and one is in need of emergency.  The lockout is so important in that reintroducing power or electricity into the circuit before the system is ready can be incredibly dangerous.  In residential uses a lockout could be something as simple as a piece of tape holding the switch in the off position.  For safety it is important that the person that turns disconnects off is the one to restart it.  This leaves one person in charge of the electricity which provides an extra level of safety to the situation. 

Although in residential uses disconnects are often manually controlled as in an on and off switch commercial uses may choose to operate disconnects with a key.  This way it helps to confirm that the user is meaning to deactivate the switch.  In some systems once the power is disconnected the system needs to completely restart once the switch is connected again. 

There are many different disconnects available for sale for a number of different residential and commercial uses.  Make sure when you purchase disconnects that you choose one that is rated for the application you will be using it for.  Choosing disconnects that are over powered or under powered poses a safety risk.  It is best to purchase exactly what you need to meet your requirements.  

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Transformers

It is important to properly install electrical components of all varieties.  This is especially crucial with the installation of transformers. Below you will find some important tips on properly installing a transformer.  

If you are installing a transformer outdoors it is important that you take precautions to keep the public safe as well as the transformer safe from outdoor elements.  When picking a location for the transformer take into consideration a location that minimizes the ability of the transformer to become damaged from human and natural elements. Keep the transformer away from hazards that might fall on top of it or run into it.  Minimize the risk by location the transformer in a safe environment. 

Depending on the location of the outdoor transformer will depend on how the enclosure should be built.  The building should be secure so that small fingers, hands and objects cannot get inserted in but that allow for proper ventilation.  

If you have an extremely heavy transformer be sure that the ground on which it sit is firm.  The area needs to support the unit without any shifting.  Soil rich in clay should be avoided.  It is recommended that the soil be sturdy enough to avoid any shifting or sinking of the transformer unit.

Indoor transformers have further considerations to keep in mind.  If you have a heavy transformer the area needs to be located in a structurally sound space.  You must ensure the structure has the integrity to withstand the weight of the transformer over a long period of time.  Support beams and columns best support heavy weight well.  

To keep the unit from overheating the proper ventilation is required.  Never install a transformer up against the wall.  The transformer will perform best if as much air as possible is allowed to surround the exterior of the unit.  The goal is for the unit to remain the same temperature as the air that surrounds it.

The unit will be noisy.  Be sure it is placed in an area with sound-absorbent materials on the wall.  A location without too many people within the area would work well.  

For both dry-type and liquid-filled transformers water and humidity can create problems for the unit.  A location that is free of humidity and water are important for the wellbeing of the transformer.  It should also be an area free of containments. Keep the space in a pollutant free environment as well.  The location should also be easily accessed.  

As you can see when it comes to the location of the transformer it is crucial.  Without a perfect location, proper maintenance and adequate care your transformer will have unexpected performance issues.  This can cost a lot to repair as well as cause major delays.  This can all be avoided simply by locating the unit in a place that takes into the special location requirements necessary for transformer units.  

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Understanding Electrical Components

Electrical equipment is a broad phrase used in the industry.  The phrase is used to define machines that gain power from electricity.   An entire set is created from a power switch, many various electrical components and an enclosure.  Small parts such as switchboards, distribution boards and circuit breakers all work together to run each piece of electrical equipment.  When we better understand the component used to create various electrical elements within our home or business we are better able to protect them.

Anything that requires electricity to run has the potential to burn out at any time.  No one can guarantee that an electrical machines run time. The longevity of your equipment is dependent on the components that are working together to run your machine.    One thing that can help to increase the life expectancy of electrical equipment is to install it properly.  The directions that are sent with the product from a residential stove to a commercial fabricator are sent to protect your purchase.  Improper installation is the number one cause for electrical equipment failure.

If issues arise with one piece of equipment in particular be sure that you not only look at the piece of equipment to find fault but also the electrical circuit in which the piece is a part of.  It is possible that nothing in fact is wrong with the machine itself but in the circuit in which it is plugged.  This is a serious issue both in commercial and residential applications.  When the wiring is not appropriate for the equipment potential hazards become a viable threat such as electrical fires.

Often times when a piece of equipment fails abruptly there is a simple explanation.  Blown fuses from overloaded circuits tend to be a fairly common cause of equipment failure.  Check the circuit breaker to see if this may be the reason for your issues.  If the circuit breaker is not blown check to see if the equipment you are using as fuses that are directly installed to help with the internal circuit of the product.  The simplest examples of internal fuses within electrical circuits are seen in automobiles or even Christmas lights.  The product contains fuses for the protection of the internal circuit as well as the residential or commercial circuit that runs the electricity for the entire building.

With proper installation understanding circuit breakers there is a good chance the next time a piece of equipment fails you will be able to troubleshoot it on your own without having to call in help.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. 

Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.