Whether to use screw or reciprocating compressors in air conditioning or refrigeration applications is a decades-old question with no simple answer. The fact is, the correct choice depends on a range of factors such as application and operating conditions. Advances in reciprocating (or “recip”) compressors, however, may well add weight to the argument in their […]
Failed multimeters are often discovered to have been subjected to higher voltage than the technician thought they were measuring. As distribution systems and loads become more complex, the possibilities of transient overvoltages increase. Motors, capacitors and power conversion equipment such as variable speed drives can be prime generators of spikes. Lightning strikes on outdoor transmission […]
Not implementing lightning and surge protective measures at PV installations is a recipe for disaster in countries such as South Africa. South Africa is seeing the rise of small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) as end-users and businesses alike work towards reducing their reliance on the national grid. Small-scale embedded generation refers to power generation under 1 MVA, […]
Large generator sets produce high levels of noise that must often be mitigated to meet national regulations and directives. This usually involves key decisions about the optimal generator set location and installation, how to design noise control systems and other factors, which is why it is important to conduct accurate noise level assessments timeously, before […]
This article details four common pressure calibration pain points and provides some helpful tips on how to overcome these issues. Performing a proper pressure calibration requires equipment and connectors that are dependable. With a leaking pressure source, keeping pressure stable at a calibration point long enough to take a reliable reading can be difficult. Slow leaks […]
The increasing complexity of electrical installations places extra responsibility on electrical test personnel charged with conforming to stringent international standards. It is imperative to use suitable test tools for performing the stringent tests imposed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). IEC 60364 and its national equivalent standards specify the requirements for fixed electrical installations in […]
A closer look at the opportunities, challenges and real-world examples of integrating the IoT into machine condition monitoring. The ultra-internet of things (IoT) has created a surge of new interest in machine condition monitoring solutions. The confluence of better and cheaper sensors, broader connectivity, more sophisticated analytics, less expensive storage and multi-cloud technology has opened […]
The options available for monitoring and inspection of surge protective devices. The status of surge protective devices is transmitted and evaluated throughout the system or between systems to able these devices to react quickly to overloads or failures. Sensitive electronic devices are increasingly being installed in areas where high system availability is required. Surge protective […]
This article provides electrical safety tips and strategies that can help to prevent arc flash incidents at industrial plants. Arc flashes cause massive electrical explosions, emitting large amounts of heat and light. They release hot gases and concentrated radiant energy that can melt metal, damage property, cause severe burns and result in fatalities or death. […]
A general discussion on how various loads and electrical factors affect the sizing of generator sets. While most genset sizing is done with sizing programs, it is important to understand the factors that affect the operation of your generator set. The first step in sizing and selecting a generator set is to establish project parameters. […]
