Load characteristics, wiring, and power cables

Abstract

Electrical distribution networks, transmission lines, electrical service, wiring devices, protection, and equipment are essential building subsystems and components. Power engineers are concerned with every step and aspects in the process of electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization. Adequate electricity amount and its efficient utilization are essential for the growth and development of any country. Past developments of the power distribution often resulted in higher system losses and poor power quality services. Consequently, an efficient and effective power distribution network, building, or industrial electric systems have become important issues. By optimizing the power distribution, reducing the capital cost, power losses, and improving the power quality are critical issues in power system operation and management, resulting in substantial savings of energy. However, the electric load varies with time and place, such as the load variation customer types and the power production and distribution system must respond to the customers' load demand at any time. Therefore, modern electricity distribution utilities need accurate load data for pricing and tariff planning, distribution network planning and operation, power generation planning, load management, customer service and billing, and finally to provide information to customers and public authorities. After completing this chapter, students and readers are able to learn and understand the power distribution network structure, configurations, operation and management, and the impacts on the building electrical, mechanical, thermal, energy and lighting systems, as well as a good understanding of the building electrical system operation, components and equipment, and related issues. They will also learn to estimate and compute the demand load, apply demand factors, determine demand load for motor, equipment and appliances, understand methods to calculate cable and conductor sizing and capacity, voltage drop calculations and service entrance, operation, parameters and characteristics of wiring devices and their applications, and to develop an understanding and appreciation of the importance of codes and standards.