PRACTICE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR ELECTRICAL POWER APPLICATIONS

1. Using a diagram briefly explain the fundamental principle of operation of a solar water heater

First of all the Sun rays fall on the Solar Collector, which is consisted a black
absorbing surface (absorber) that absorbs solar radiation, and transfers the heat
energy to water flowing through it.After this, heated water is collected in a tank,
insulated to prevent heat loss. Then the circulation of water from the tank through
the collector and back to the tank continues automatically. An Insulated Storage
Tank of a Solar Water Heater is useful to collect solar energy by collector panels to
store hot water.
2. Using the aid of a block diagram of a typical power supply unit (PSU) and explain in details the
function of each block converting AC power to the appropriate DC power
3. What is a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)?

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is defined as a piece of electrical equipment which can
be used as an immediate power source to the connected load when there is a failure in the
main input power source.

4. Major Roles of a UPS?

 To supply power for a short time whenever there is any failure in the power source
 To supply and deliver clean and regulated power to the load, despite fluctuations on
the grid side including voltage spikes, noise and harmonics and unstable frequency
from mains
5. Types of UPS
On-line UPS
 In this type of UPS, double conversion method is used. Here, first the AC input is
converted into DC by rectifying process for storing it in the rechargeable battery.
 This DC is converted into AC by the process of inversion and given to the load or
equipment which it is connected (figure 2).
 This type of UPS is used where electrical isolation is mandatory. This system is a bit
more costly due to the design of constantly running converters and cooling systems.

Off- line UPS

 This UPS is also called as Standby UPS system which can give only the most basic
features. Here, the primary source is the filtered AC mains (shown in solid path in
figure 1).
 When the power breakage occurs, the transfer switch will select the backup source
(shown in dashed path in figure 1).
6. What are some of common UPS Applications?
 Data Centers
 Industries
 Telecommunications
 Hospitals
 Banks and insurance
 Some special projects (events)

7. Using the aid of a block diagram describe a typical Solar Home System detailing its components

Solar Home Systems

8. A 100 Ah capacity fully charged battery is discharged at 5 A rate for 8 hours. The depth of
discharge of the battery after this period is

a. 40%

b. 5%

c. 60% ANS

d. 8%

9. A 20 Watt Tube light operated from 12 V DC supply is turned on for 5 hours. Calculate the
energy consumed (in Ah) by the light.

20W/12V =1.67A

Energy consumed in Ah = 1.67 x 5 = 8.3Ah

10. From the sample load profile from the SHS using customer is as given in the table below

a) Calculate the energy required to operate the devices in the table above

Energy required for electric lamp

Energy consumption for operating each lamp is calculated by multiplying the power

rating (Watt) of it by the time of operation in hour.

EL = PLHL ……………………… (7.1.1)

where,

EL = Energy consumption by the lamp (Watt-hours)

PL = Power rating of the lamp (Watt)

HL =– Daily operation time of the lamp (hours)

EL Total = EL1 + EL2 + EL3 + .....

For the lamps given in the table 7.1.1, the total energy consumption for lighting lamps
becomes,

EL Total = (10W x 3 hours) + (7W x 3 hours) + (5W x 1 hour) = 30 Wh + 21 Wh + 5 Wh = 56

Wh.
 ER = 3 Watt x 3 hours = 9 Watt-hour

ET = 15 Watt x 2 hours = 30 Watt-hour

E = EL Total + ER Total + ET + …..

E = 56 Wh + 9 Wh + 30 Wh = 95 Wh
11. How many 12V 100AH Lead Acid Batteries are required to ensure the above SHS can
safely sustain the load for the desired period given an 50% Depth of discharge.

12. Distinguish between Wiring Diagrams and schematic Diagrams?

Schematic diagrams are symbolic representations of complete circuits or systems created

during the design phase. They show the function of the circuit or system. The schematics
reduce multipart components, or integrated circuits, into their sub-components so their role
in the circuit is easier to understand.

Wiring diagrams, or layouts, illustrate the physical connections, or wiring, between

components. They are crucial to the assembly of the circuit or system. Parts that are shown
broken down into their sub-components, for the schematic, retain their complete package
format for the wiring diagram.
Schematic symbols

Distribution board

One-Way Switch ( Single Pole )

Two-Way Switch ( Single Pole )

Intermediate Switch

Lamp, general symbol

Spotlight

One Way Pull Cord Switch ( Single Pole )

One-Way Switch with Pilot Lamp (

Single Pole )

One-Way Period Limiting Switch (

Single Pole )
 13. Define the following terms in Switching and Isolation
Isolation:
is the intended function to cut off the supply from all or a discrete section of
the installation by separating the installation or section from every source of
electrical energy for reasons of safety.
Switching:

Isolating Switch: A mechanical switching device that, in the open position,

complies with the requirements specified for the isolating function.
Main Isolating Switch: A switching device provided at the main supply
point for the purpose of isolating an installation.
Switchgear: Equipment provided to be connected to an electrical circuit for
the purpose of carrying out one or more of the following functions: protection,
control, isolation, switching.
Distribution Board: An assembly of protective devices, including two or
more fuses or circuit breakers, arranged for the distribution of electrical
energy to final circuits or to other distribution boards.
Circuit: Part of an electrical installation supplied from the same origin and
protected against overcurrents by a single protective device.
Main Earthing Terminal ( MET ) or Bar: A terminal or bar provided for
the connection of protective conductors, main equipotential bonding
conductors and conductors for functional earthing if any, to the means of
earthing.

14. Define a circuit breaker and differentiate the following breakers: Fuses, MCB, MCCB, RCD,
RCCD, and RCBO
Circuit breakers are essentially safety devices of any property that uses electricity. These
fixtures act as the third party within sophisticated and dangerous electrical wiring
systems. They include, Fuses, MCB, MCCB, RCD, RCCD, and RCBO
Fuse
Fuse is an electrical device that self-destructs and stops the current flow in a circuit
whenever the current exceeds the predefined value.
MCB
stands for Miniature Circuit Breakers. The MCB is an electromechanical device that
 switches off the circuit automatically if an abnormality is detected. The MCB easily senses
the overcurrent caused by the short circuit. The miniature circuit has a very straightforward
working principle. Additionally, it has two contacts; one fixed and the other movable.

MCCB
On the other hand, MCCB is an abbreviation for Molded Case Circuit Breaker. The
MCCB is a protective device protecting the circuit from overloading. Additionally, it has a
switch that is operated manually for tripping the circuit. The device features two
arrangements, one for the overcurrent and one for the over-temperature. Moreover, the
MCCB consists of bimetallic contact, which contracts and expands when the MCCB
temperature changes.
RCCB
stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker. RCCB is also known as RCB or RCD. RCD
stands for Residual Current Device, while RCB stands for Residual Current Breaker. RCCB
is an electrical wiring device that disconnects the circuit as soon as it detects a current leak to
the earth wire. It also protects against electric electrocution or shock caused by direct contact

15. Compare and contrast between a fuse and MCB

16. Define the following terms in switching circuits

a) One gang refers to the fact that there is only one switch in the plate.
One-way indicates that it is a one-way switch, two-way and
intermediate switches are also available.
 b) Single pole means that there is only one contact. The contact must be
used to break the phase conductor. If the number of poles is not
mentioned for a particular switch, then it is assumed to be a single pole
switch. Double pole switches are also available.

Switching Circuits
17. Draw the schematic diagram for a AC powered single way switch powering 1 lamp
connection (One-Way Switching Circuit)

When the switch is closed the phase conductor is switched through to the lamp from terminal L1
and the 230 V supply is placed across the terminals of the lamp and so the lamp is illuminated.
When the switch is opened the phase conductor is interrupted and the lamp is extinguished. This
occurs when the switch is in the “up” position.
 18. Draw the schematic diagram for a AC powered single way switch powering 2 lamps
connected in series (One-Way Switching Circuit)

If more than one lamp is required, the extra lamp or lamps should be connected in
parallel as shown in Figure 2.

Two-Way Switching Circuit

19. Draw the schematic diagram for a AC powered single way switch powering 2 lamps
connected in parallel (two-Way Switching Circuit)

The two-way switch has two outputs, sometimes labelled L1 and L2. The third terminal is
referred to as the “Common” terminal and is marked “C” in some cases. This terminal is
“common” to L1 & L2. In the “up” position the common is connected to L2 as shown,
and therefore the lamp is “off”. If either switch is changed to the L1 position the lamp will
be “on”. If both switches are changed to the L1 position the lamp will again be “off”. If
the “strappers” are crossed over at either switch, the lamp will be “on” when both
switches are in the “up” position. It is simply good practice to ensure that this does not
occur. This means that it is possible to place all switches in the “up” position and be
assured that all lamps are “off”. It also ensures safety when replacing faulty lamps or flex
drops.

The figure shows how a lamp can be controlled from two locations providing on / off
control from either location. This circuit is used to control lamps in such places as
stairways, corridors and rooms with two doorways.
ELECTRIC TRACTION SYSTEMS
20. Define Traction systems and give the two major categories

Traction system is normally classified into two types based on the type of energy
given as input to drive the system and they are:
1. Non-electric traction system
Traction system develops the necessary propelling torque, which do not involve the
use of electrical energy at any stage to drive the traction vehicle known as electric
traction system. Ex: Direct steam engine drive and direct internal combustion
engine drive.
2. Electric traction system
Traction system develops the necessary propelling torque, which involves the use of
electrical energy at any stage to drive the traction vehicle, known as electric traction
system. Based upon the type of sources used to feed electric supply for traction
system, electric traction may be classified into two groups:
1. Self-contained locomotives.
2. Electric vehicle fed from the distribution networks.

21. Draw the block diagram of and describe the functional blocks of an electric drive system

Power source: The power source provides the energy to the drive system. It may be dc or ac (singlephase or three-
phase)

Power Converter: The converter interfaces the motor with the power source and provides the motor with adjustable
voltage, current and frequency. During transient period such as starting, braking and speed reversal, it restricts source
and motor current within permissible limits Also the converter converts the electric waveform into required signal that
requires the motor.
 Controller: A well designed controller has several functions. The basic function is to monitor system variables,
compare them with desire values, and then adjust the converter output until the system achives a desired performance.
This feature is used in speed and position control.

Electric motor:

i) The basic criterion in selecting an electric motor for a given drive application is it meets power level and
performance required by the load during steady state and dynamic operation. ii) Environmental factors: In industry
such as in food processing, chemical industries and aviation where the environment must be clean and free from arc.
Induction motors are used instead of DC motor.

22. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of Electric Traction systems

Advantages of Electric Drives:

 Flexible control characteristics.
 Starting and braking is easy and simple
 Provides a wide range of torques over a wide range of speeds (both ac and
dc motor)
 Availability of wide range of electric power
 Works to almost any type of environmental conditions
 No exhaust gases emitted
 Capable of operating in all 4 quadrants of torque –speed plane
 Can be started and accelerated at very short time
23. Describe the factors that determine the hoice of Electrical Drives:

The choice of an electrical drive depends on a number of factors. Some important factors
are:
 Steady state operation requirements: (nature of speed-torque characteristics,
speed regulation, speed range, efficiency, duty cycle, quadrants of operation,
speed fluctuations, rating etc)
 Transient operation requirement(values of acceleration and deceleration,
starting, braking, speed reversing)
 Requirement of sources:(types of source, its capacity, magnitude of voltage,
power factor, harmonics etc)
 Capital and running cost, maintenance needs, life periods
 Space and weight restrictions
 Environment and location
 Reliability
24. A certain appliance has a true power rating of 300W and an apparent power of
400VA. What is the power factor of this appliance?
PF = real power/apparent power
PF = 300/400 = 0.75
25. In switching define pole and throw (2 marks)
“Pole” indicates the number of circuits that one switch can control for one operation of the switch.
“Throw” indicates the number of contact points. NO and NC contacts are single throw. Changeover
contacts are double throw.
26. Draw the circuit diagrams for the following switch types (3 marks)
i. SPST – Single Pole Single Throw
ii. SPDT – Single Pole Double Throw
iii. DPDT – Double pole Double Throw

27.
U
si
ng a schematic using a schematic diagram show how a DPDT switch can be used to
reverse the polarity of the voltage across a DC motor powered by a 12V DC source
(3 marks)

28. State two methods of

starting a three phase cage type induction motors
 Direct –On– line (DOL) starters for less than 10 Kw motors.
 Star–Delta starters for large motors. The stator winding is initially connected in a star
configuration and later on changed over to a Delta connection, when the motor reaches rated
speed.

29. Explain what’s meant by the slip of an AC motor
Slip is defined as difference between Synchronous Speed (Speed of rotation of magnetic field) and
Rotor Speed (Speed of rotatory part of induction motor).
30. Express the formula for calculating wire resistance and explain the relationship of
the core size area and length of cable to the overall voltage drop (2marks)
 Wire Resistance
 Resistance is proportional to the length of the wire.
 The resistance of a conductor can be found by the formula: