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Building Wiring Electrical Planning Design and Estimate

Information Technology (University of Eastern Philippines)

Studocu is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university

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Republic of the Philippines

UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN PHILIPPINES
PEDRO REBADULLA MEMORIAL CAMPUS
Catubig, Northern Samar
Web: http://uep.edu.ph; Email: uepprmcampus@gmail.com

MODULES BUILDING WIRING, ELECTRICAL

PLANNING DESIGN & ESTIMATE

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY

FIRST SEMESTER 2020-2021

Course Title: BUILDING WIRING, ELECTRICAL PLANNING DESIGN & ESTIMATE

Course Code: ET 102

Instructor: CLYDE P. LOBERITA

Email Add: cnploberita@gmail.com
Contact No: 0966-473-6800
Facebook Account: Clyde Loberita

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MODULE OF BUILDING WIRING, ELECTRICAL PLANNING DESIGN & ESTIMATE

Theoretical and practical applications include residential code, safety wiring methods, circuit
design, circuit components, tools, installation, planning and estimating, blueprint reading, appliance
and special outlets, farm wiring, mobile home, low voltage, remodeling, troubleshooting, motors, and
motor circuits.

Learning Outcomes:
 The student will describe residential code.
 The student will demonstrate safe wiring methods, installation, circuit design and circuit
components.
 The student will identify tools, appliances, special outlets, motors and motor circuits.
 The student will describe blueprint readings, planning and estimation.
 The student will demonstrate troubleshooting, farm wiring, and remodeling.

ELECTRICAL WIRING

A network of wires connecting various accessories for distribution of electrical energy from the
Utility Company (Supplier of electrical energy) to the numerous electrical energy consuming devices
such as lamps, fans, mixer, and other domestic appliances through controlling and safety devices is
known as Wiring System. This describes general aspects of electrical wiring as used to provide power
in buildings and structures, commonly referred as Building Wiring.

TYPE OF WIRING ACCORDING TO USES

1. Domestic or House Wiring

2. Commercial Wiring
3. Industrial Wiring

FACTORS AFFECTING THE CHOICE OF WIRING

The following should be considered before selecting a particular type of wiring.

1. SAFETY – The first and foremost consideration is safety to a person using electricity against
leakage or shock. Where there is a possibility of fire hazard, conduit wiring is used.
2. MECHANICAL PROTECTION - The wiring must be protected from mechanical damage during
use.
3. PERMANENCY - The wiring must not deteriorate unduly by action of weather, Fumes, Dampness
etc.
4. APPEARANCE - The wiring should be good looking.
5. Durability: The wiring must be durable.
6. ACCESSIBILITY: In wiring system there should be facilities for extension, renewal, or alternations.
7. INITIAL COST: The wiring selected should suit the pocket of the owner of the building.
8. MAINTENANCE COST: The wiring should have, as far as possible, the lowest maintenance cost.

TYPES OF CABLE USED IN INTERNAL WIRING

The wires employed for internal wiring of building may be divided into different groups according (i)
conductor used number of cores used (iii) voltage grading and (iv) types of insulation used.
According to the conductor material used in cables, these may be divided into two classes
known as copper conductor cables and aluminum conductor cables.
According to the number of cores, the cable consists of, the cables may be divided into
classes known as single core cables; twin core cable, three core cables; two core with ECC ( earth
continuity conductor) cables etc.
According to voltage grading the cables may be divided into two classes: (i) 250/440 volt
cables and (ii) 650/1,100 volt cables.
According to type of insulation the cables are of the following types.
1. Vulcanized Indian-Rubber (VIR) insulated cables.
2. Tough rubber sheathed (TRS) or cab tyre sheathed (CTS) cables.
3. Lead sheathed cables.

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4. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cables.

5. Weatherproof cables
6. Flexible cords and cables
7. XLPE cables.
8. PVC cables are most widely used for internal wiring these days because of the following
reason:
(i)PVC insulation has better insulating qualities.
(ii)PVC insulation provides better flexibility.
(iii)PVC insulation has no chemical effect on metal of the wire.
(iv)Thin layer of PVC insulation will provide the desired insulation level.
(v)PVC coated wire gives smaller diameter of cable and therefore, more number of wires can
be accommodated in the conduit of a given size in comparison to VIR or CTS wires.

A cable containing one or more cores, each formed of a group of wires, the diameter of cores
and of the wires being very small to afford flexibility, is known flexible cord. These are used as
connecting wires for such purposes as from ceiling rose to lamp holder, or from socket outlet to
portable apparatus such as radios, fans, lamps, heaters etc. The flexibility of such wires facilitate in
handling the appliances and prevent the wires from breakage. The flexibility cords used for household
appliance are available in various pleasing colours, sizes and of various thickness of insulation. These
wires should never be used for fixed wiring.
XLPE and PVC cables are built of insulation made of polymers. XLPE cables have the
advantages of higher current rating, longer service life, low dielctric loss and resistant to acids and
alkalies. Presently XLPE cables are used extensively for ht and lt works. Even for distribution work at
3-phase 415 V industry is using XLPE cables.

PROTECTIVE DEVICES FOR WIRING INSTALLATIONS AND MOTORS

The most frequent causes for abnormal conditions are overloads and short circuit, therefore,
protection is to be provided to wiring installation and motors against overloading and short circuiting.
The devices used are fuses, relays, miniature circuit breakers (MCB), earth leakage breakers,
Fuses are used for low and high voltage circuits of moderate of high capacity, where frequent
operations are not expected e.g. for the protection of distribution transformers, small and medium size
motors, lighting circuits, branch circuits of distribution lines, and industrial plants and commercial
building up to 600 A at 250 V, 500 A at 600 V and in high voltages up to 100 A at 132,000 V. The
protection by fuses is advantageous from the point of view of cost but it does not permit supervision
and are to be replaced in the field. Moreover, when fuse blows, it takes quite some time to renew it
and restore the supply. Circuit breaker are much more convenient and quick and very useful where
slight overloads occur often or where heavy currents are to be broken.

12.9 FUSES

Fuse is perhaps the simplest and cheapest device

used for interrupting an electrical circuit under short
circuit, or excessive overload, current magnitudes. As
such, it is used for overload and/or short circuit
protection in high-voltage (up to 66 kV) and low-
voltage (up to 400 V) installation/circuits. In high-
voltage circuits their use is confined to those
applications where their performance characteristics
are particularly suitable for current interruption.
The action of a fuse is based upon the
heating effect of the electric current. In normal
operating conditions, when the current flowing
through the circuit is within safe limits, the heat
developed in the fuse element carrying this current is
readily dissipated into the surrounding air, and
therefore, fuse element remains at a temperature
below its melting point. However, when some fault,
such as short circuit occurs or when load connected
in a circuit exceeds its capacity, the current exceeds the limiting value, the heat generated due to this
excessive current cannot be dissipated fast enough and the fusible element gets heated, melts and
break the circuit. It thus protects a machine or apparatus or an installation from damage due to
excessive current.
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Advantages. (i) It is the cheapest form of protection available.

(ii) It needs no maintenance.
(iii) Its operation is inherently completely automatic unlike a circuit breaker which requires an
Elaborate equipment for automatic action.
(iv) In interrupts enormous short-circuit currents without noise, flame, gas or smoke.
(v) The minimum time of operation can be made much smaller than that with the circuit
breakers.
(vi) The smaller sizes of fuse element impose a current limiting effect under short-circuit
conditions.
(vii) its inverse tine-current characteristic enables its use for overload protection.

Disadvantages. (i) Considerable time is lost in rewiring or replacing a fuse after operation.
(ii) On heavy short circuits, discrimination between fuses in series cannot be obtained unless
there is considerable differences in the relative sizes of the fuses concerned.
(iii) The current-time characteristic of a fuse cannot always be correlated with that of the
protective device.

The function of fuse wire is (i) to carry the normal working current safely without heating and
(ii) to break the circuit when the current exceeds the limiting current.

TYPES OF FUSES
1. Supply Main Fuse. This fuse is provided by the supplier and it fixed just after the service
meter and sealed by him. The seal can be broken only by authorized person of the supply
authority in case of blowing out of fuse for the purpose of replacement. The rating of supply
main fuse will be as per load current of the consumer.
2. Consumer Main Fuse. This is another fuse of rating slightly less than that of supply main fuse
provided by the supplier and placed after the consumer’s main switch. The rating of consumer
fuse is kept slightly lower than that of supply main fuse so that in case of exceeding of current
than normal current (that may occur due to overload, short circuit or earth fault) consumer
fuse, which can be replaced by him, may blow and supply main fuse may remain intact.
3. Sub-Circuit Fuses. The total wiring system is divided into a number of sub-circuit or branch
circuit and is known as sub-circuit or branch circuit fuse.
4. Point Fuses. In good quality indoor wiring of buildings, every light and plug point is provided
with its individual fuse known as point fuse.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS

Circuit breakers are mechanical devices

designed to close or open contact members,
thus closing or opening an electric circuit
under normal and abnormal conditions.
Automatic circuit breakers, which are usually
employed for the protection of electrical
circuits. Are equipped with a trip coil
connected to a relay or other means
designed to open the circuit breaker
automatically under normal conditions, such
as overcurrent. The automatic circuit
breakers perform the following duties:

(i) It carries the full-load current continuously without overheating damage.

(ii) It opens and closes the circuit on load.
(iii) It makes and breaks the normal operating current.
(iv) It makes and breaks the short-circuit currents of magnitude up to which it is designed
for.

A circuit breaker consist of fixed and moving contacts which are touching each other under
normal conditions i.e when circuit breaker is closed. Whenever a faults occurs, the trip coils get
energized, the moving contacts are pulled by some mechanism and therefore the circuit breaker is
opened and the circuit is broken.
A more economical device used for protection of a motor is externally mounted thermal
overload relay.
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Thermal overload relays provide protection for the motor only in the case of an overload and
do not provide protection against short circuits. This is because short circuit required to be cleared
instantaneously, while the heater coil takes some time to heat the metal strip to the set temperature.

Miniature circuit breaker (MCB) is a device that provides definite protection to the wiring installation
and sophisticated equipment against overcurrents and short-circuit faults. The outer and interior views
of an MCB are shown in Figure 12.18. Thermal operation (overload protection) is achieved with a
bimetallic strip, which deflects when heated by any overcurrent flowing through it. In doing so,
releases the latch mechanism and causes the contacts to open. In verse time-current characteristics
result, i.e., greater the overload or excessive current, shorter the time required to operate the MCB.
On the occurrence of a short circuit, the rising current energizes the solenoid, operating the plunger to
strike the trip lever causing immediate release of the latch mechanism. Rapidity of the magnetic
solenoid operation causes instantaneous opening of contacts.

Miniature circuit breakers are available with different current ratings of 0.5, 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6,
7.5, 10, 16, 20, 25 32, 35 40, 63, 100, 125, 160A and voltage ratings of 240/415 V ac and up to 220 V
dc. Operating time is very short (less than 5 ms). So they are very suitable for protection of important
and sophisticated equipment, such as air-conditioners, refrigerator, computers etc.

CIRCUIT AND SUB-CIRCUIT

Electrical apparatus is connected, by cables, to the supply main and to the associated protective and
controlling devices (usually fuses and switches). This arrangement of cables is known as a circuit. A
circuit that feeds apparatus directly is known as a sub-circuit; when connected to a distribution board
this is known as final sub-circuit.
The sub-circuit may be divided into the following two groups:
(i) Light and Fan (5A) sub-circuit and (ii) power (15A) sub-circuits.

DISTRIBUTION BOARD SYSTEM

A distribution board (also known as panelboard, breaker panel, or electric panel) is a component of an
electricity supply system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits, while providing a
protective fuse or circuit breaker for each circuit in a common enclosure. Normally, a main switch, and
in recent boards, one or more residual-current devices (RCD) or residual current breakers with
overcurrent protection (RCBO), are also incorporated.

METHODS OF WIRING AND DIFFERENT TYPES OF WIRING SYSTEMS

WIRING SYSTEM

Methods of Electrical Wiring Systems w.r.t Taking Connection

Wiring (a process of connecting various accessories for distribution of electrical energy from
supplier’s meter board to home appliances such as lamps, fans and other domestic appliances is
known as Electrical Wiring) can be done using two
methods which are

1. Joint box system or Tee system

2. Loop – in system

Joint Box or Tee or Jointing System

In this method of wiring, connections to appliances

are made through joints. These joints are made in
joint boxes by means of suitable connectors or
joints cutouts. This method of wiring doesn’t
consume too much cables size.

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You might think because this method of wiring doesn’t require too much cable it is therefore cheaper.
It is of course but the money you saved from buying cables will be used in buying joint boxes, thus
equation is balanced. This method is suitable for temporary installations and it is cheap. Joint Box or
Tee or Jointing System

Loop-in or Looping System

This method of wiring is universally used in

wiring. Lamps and other appliances are
connected in parallel so that each of the
appliances can be controlled individually. When a
connection is required at a light or switch, the
feed conductor is looped in by bringing it directly
to the terminal and then carrying it forward again
to the next point to be fed.

The switch and light feeds are carried round the

circuit in a series of loops from one point to
another until the last on the circuit is reached.
The phase or line conductors are looped either in
switchboard or box and neutrals are looped either
in switchboard or from light or fan. Line or phase
should never be looped from light or fan.

Advantages of Loop-In Method of Wiring

 It doesn’t require joint boxes and so money is saved

 In loop – in systems, no joint is concealed beneath floors or in roof spaces.
 Fault location is made easy as the points are made only at outlets so that they are
accessible.

Disadvantages of Loop-In Method of Wiring

 Length of wire or cables required is more and voltage drop and copper losses are therefore
more
 Looping – in switches and lamp holders is usually difficult.

Different Types of Electrical Wiring Systems

The types of internal wiring usually used are

1. Cleat wiring
2. Wooden casing and capping wiring
3. CTS or TRS or PVC sheath wiring
4. Lead sheathed or metal sheathed wiring
5. Conduit wiring

There are additional types of conduit wiring according to Pipes installation (Where steel and PVC
pipes are used for wiring connection and installation).

6. Surface or open Conduit type

7. Recessed or concealed or underground type Conduit

1. Cleat Wiring

This system of wiring comprises of ordinary VIR or PVC insulated wires (occasionally, sheathed and
weather proof cable) braided and compounded held on walls or ceilings by means of porcelain cleats,
Plastic or wood.

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Cleat wiring system is a temporary wiring system therefore it is not suitable for domestic premises.
The use of cleat wiring system is over nowadays. Cleat electrical wiring old wiring Electrical Wiring
Systems.

Advantages of Cleat Wiring:

 It is simple and cheap wiring system

 Most suitable for temporary use i.e. under construction building or army camping
 As the cables and wires of cleat wiring system is in open air, therefore fault in cables can
be seen and repair easily.
 Cleat wiring system installation is easy and simple.
 Customization can be easily done in this wiring system e.g. alteration and addition.
 Inspection is easy and simple.

Disadvantages of Cleat Wiring:

 Appearance is not so good.

 Cleat wiring can’t be use for permanent use because, Sag may be occur after sometime of
the usage.
 In this wiring system, the cables and wiring is in open air, therefore, oil, Steam, humidity,
smoke, rain, chemical and acidic effect may damage the cables and wires.
 it is not lasting wire system because of the weather effect, risk of fire and wear & tear.
 it can be only used on 250/440 Volts on low temperature.
 There is always a risk of fire and electric shock.
 it can’t be used in important and sensitive location and places.
 It is not lasting, reliable and sustainable wiring system.

2. Casing and Capping wiring

Casing and Capping wiring system was famous wiring system in the past but, it is considered
obsolete this days because of Conduit and sheathed wiring system. The cables used in this kind of
wiring were either VIR or PVC or any other approved insulated cables.

The cables were carried through the wooden casing enclosures. The casing is made up of a strip of
wood with parallel grooves cut length wise so as to accommodate VIR cables. The grooves were
made to separate opposite polarity. the capping (also made of wood) used to cover the wires and
cables installed and fitted in the casing. Casing and Capping wiring

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Advantages of Casing Capping Wiring:

 It is cheap wiring system as compared to sheathed and conduit wiring systems.

 It is strong and long-lasting wiring system.
 Customization can be easily done in this wiring system.
 If Phase and Neutral wire is installed in separate slots, then repairing is easy.
 Stay for long time in the field due to strong insulation of capping and casing.
 It stays safe from oil, Steam, smoke and rain.
 No risk of electric shock due to covered wires and cables in casing & capping.

Disadvantages Casing Capping Wiring:

 There is a high risk of fire in casing & capping wiring system.

 Not suitable in the acidic, alkalies and humidity conditions
 Costly repairing and need more material.
 Material can’t be found easily in the contemporary
 White ants may damage the casing & capping of wood.

3. Batten Wiring (CTS or TRS)

Single core or double core or three core TRS cables with a circular oval shape cables are used in this
kind of wiring. Mostly, single core cables are preferred. TRS cables are chemical proof, water proof,
steam proof, but are slightly affected by lubricating oil. The TRS cables are run on well-seasoned and
straight teak wood batten with at least a thickness of 10mm.

The cables are held on the wooden batten by means of tinned brass link clips (buckle clip) already
fixed on the batten with brass pins and spaced at an interval of 10cm for horizontal runs and 15cm for
vertical runs. Batten Wiring System Old Electrical Wiring

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Advantages of Batten Wiring

 Wiring installation is simple and easy

 cheap as compared to other electrical wiring systems
 Paraphrase is good and beautiful
 Repairing is easy
 strong and long-lasting
 Customization can be easily done in this wiring system.
 less chance of leakage current in batten wiring system

Disadvantages of Batten Wiring

 Can’t be install in the humidity, Chemical effects, open and outdoor areas.
 High risk of firs
 Not safe from external wear & tear and weather effects (because, the wires are openly visible
to heat, dust, steam and smoke.
 Heavy wires can’t be used in batten wiring system.
 Only suitable below then 250V.
 Need more cables and wires.

4. Lead Sheathed Wiring

The type of wiring employs conductors that are insulated with VIR and covered with an outer sheath
of lead aluminum alloy containing about 95% of lead. The metal sheath given protection to cables
from mechanical damage, moisture and atmospheric corrosion.

The whole lead covering is made electrically continuous and is connected to earth at the point of entry
to protect against electrolytic action due to leaking current and to provide safety in case the sheath
becomes alive. The cables are run on wooden batten and fixed by means of link clips just as in TRS
wiring.

5. Conduit Wiring

There are two additional types of conduit wiring according to pipe installation

1. Surface Conduit Wiring

2. Concealed Conduit Wiring

5.1 Surface Conduit Wiring

If conduits installed on roof or wall, it is known as surface conduit wiring. in this wiring method, they
make holes on the surface of wall on equal distances and conduit is installed then with the help of
rawal plugs.

5.2 Concealed Conduit wiring

If the conduit is hidden inside the wall slots with the help of plastering, it is called concealed conduit
wiring. In other words, the electrical wiring system inside wall, roof or floor with the help of plastic or
metallic piping is called concealed conduit wiring. obliviously, It is the most popular, beautiful, stronger
and common electrical wiring system nowadays.

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In conduit wiring, steel tubes known as conduits are installed on the surface of walls by means of pipe
hooks (surface conduit wiring) or buried in walls under plaster and VIR or PVC cables are afterwards
drawn by means of a GI wire of size if about 18SWG.

In Conduit wiring system, the conduits should be electrically continuous and connected to earth at
some suitable points in case of steel conduit. Conduit wiring is a professional way of wiring a building.
Mostly PVC conduits are used in domestic wiring.

The conduit protects the cables from being damaged by rodents (when rodents bites the cables it will
cause short circuit) that is why circuit breakers are in place though but hey! Prevention is better than
cure. Lead conduits are used in factories or when the building is prone to fire accident. Trunking is
more of like surface conduit wiring. It’s gaining popularity too.

It is done by screwing a PVC trunking pipe to a wall then passing the cables through the pipe. The
cables in conduit should not be too tight. Space factor have to be put into consideration.
Types of Conduit

Following conduits are used in the conduit wiring systems (both concealed and surface conduit wiring)
which are shown in the above image.

 Metallic Conduit
 Non-metallic conduit

Metallic Conduit: Metallic conduits are made of steel which are very strong but costly as well.

There are two types of metallic conduits.

 Class A Conduit: Low gauge conduit (Thin layer steel sheet conduit)
 Class B Conduit: High gauge conduit (Thick sheet of steel conduit)

Non-metallic Conduit: A solid PVC conduit is used as non-metallic conduit nowadays, which is flexible
and easy to bend.

Size of Conduit:

The common conduit pipes are available in different sizes genially, 13, 16.2, 18.75, 20, 25, 37, 50,
and 63 mm (diameter) or 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 1, 1.25, 1.5, and 2 inch in diameter.
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Advantage of Conduit Wiring Systems

 It is the safest wiring system (Concealed conduit wring)

 Appearance is very beautiful (in case of concealed conduit wiring)
 No risk of mechanical wear & tear and fire in case of metallic pipes.
 Customization can be easily done according to the future needs.
 Repairing and maintenance is easy.
 There is no risk of damage the cables insulation.
 it is safe from corrosion (in case of PVC conduit) and risk of fire.
 It can be used even in humidity, chemical effect and smoky areas.
 No risk of electric shock (In case of proper earthing and grounding of metallic pipes).
 It is reliable and popular wiring system.
 Sustainable and long-lasting wiring system.

Disadvantages of Conduit Wiring Systems

 It is expensive wiring system (Due to PVC and Metallic pipes, Additional earthing for metallic
pipes Tee(s) and elbows etc.
 Very hard to find the defects in the wiring.
 installation is not easy and simple.
 Risk of Electric shock (In case of metallic pipes without proper earthing system)
 Very complicated to manage additional connection in the future.

Comparison between Different Wiring Systems

Below is the table which shows the comparison between all the above mentioned wiring systems.

HOME CIRCUITING, MULTIPLE SWITCHING, AND WIRING REQUIREMENTS

Circuiting details require careful consideration. Otherwise, after an installation is completed, it may be
discovered that the lamp control facilities are less than desired. The chief lamp control arrangements
may be listed as follows.

 A certain number of lamps are to be switched on and off from one location.
 A pair of lamps are to be individually controlled by a pair of switches.
 A pair of lamps are to be individually controlled by a single switch. In one arrangement, a
main switch must be thrown to turn both lamps off.
 A pair of lamps are to be individually controlled from one location. In one arrangement, a main
switch must be thrown to turn both lamps off.
 A pair of lamps are to be switched on or off from two locations.
 Three lamps and three switches are to wired so that a switch will operate its own light for
certain positions of the two other switches.

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Types of Drawings

Electrical drawings plays an important role in electrical installation works that they convey information
about connection of various devices and equipments with mains. The information on drawings
provides the complete design or plan of electrical installation and also helps to assemble the various
equipments.
Some of the electrical wiring diagrams are discussed below. Before knowing about these diagrams,
first one must aware and have idea about various symbols used while preparing drawing and also for
understanding the wiring connections. Check out various electrical wiring symbols .

Block Diagram
It is a functional drawing which shows and describes the main operating principles of the equipment
or devices. It consists of principle functions or parts represented by blocks and are connected through
lines that show the relationship between the blocks.
This diagram is usually drawn before implementing a circuit diagram. It will not give any detailed
information about the system and also leaves the information about smaller components. And hence,
most technicians have limited interest about this diagram.

Circuit Drawing (Diagram)

In this, electrical circuit is graphically represented in a simplified manner. It includes the position
information (in cm or m or mm) of various elements like light fixtures, receptacle boxes, junction
boxes, ceiling fans, etc.

Line Diagram
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It is a simplified notation of an electrical system, also called as one-line diagram or single line
diagram. It is similar to the block diagram except that various electrical elements such as
transformers, switches, lights, fans, circuit breakers, and motors are represented by standard
schematic symbols.
It consists of symbols to represent the components and lines to represent the wires or conductors
which connects the components together.
The line diagram is actually derived from the block diagram. It doesn’t give any layout of the parts and
their detail wiring information of the components.
However, one can do wiring by following the information given in this diagram. These diagrams are
usually intended to illustrate the working of an electric circuit.

Wiring Diagram

The electrical wiring diagram is a pictorial representation of the circuit which shows the wiring
between the parts or elements or equipments.
It gives detailed information about wiring such that one can get an idea of making connection between
the devices. It includes relative position, arrangement of the devices and also terminals on the
devices.
It shows power supplies and earth connections, control and signal functions (with simplified shapes),
termination of unused contacts and leads, interconnection via plugs, blocks, sockets, terminal posts,
lead-through, etc.

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Wiring Schedule

It is a list of cables or wires used in the installation with its reference number, length, type and the
amount of insulation stripping required for soldering the cable. It gives the raceways of the wire and
also starting and termination points.
In some complex equipment, wiring table gives the interconnection of the equipments (such as motors
and heaters) with starting and finishing reference points. It also includes the wire identification
markings, wire colors, size and so on.

Parts List

Although it is not a drawing, parts list is an integral part of drawing which defines the various symbols
and parts used in other drawings such as wiring diagram, line diagram, and block diagram.
It gives the information of circuit component types with related to their reference numbers. This list is
useful for identifying, locate and cross refer the actual component labeled or given in other electrical
drawings in order to ensure the choice of appropriate parts before doing the electrical wiring.

Wiring Preparation

As we are discussing the sequence of steps in wiring like understanding the safety, knowing types of
wiring systems, understanding the difference among various electrical drawings and symbols, the
next step of electrical wiring process is the preparation of wires or cables and electrical tools.
The wiring preparation includes the following considerations.
1. The type of conductor can be single solid wire or stranded wire conductor (which is made up
of a number of thin stands). Single solid wires are not flexible and are used where rigid
connections are required such as power switching contractors. Mostly stranded conductors
are preferred for electrical installations.
2. The specifications of the wire depend on the several factors like number of strands in the
conductor, insulation type, cross section area of the wire, diameter of the strands, etc.
3. Choose the wires depends on the color code mentioned by various standards such as red for
phase wire, black for neutral, green for earth and so on. Click here to know briefly about
the electrical wiring colors of the wires or cables.
4. Various basic electrical tools are required to do the installation work and some of these tools
include cutter, strippers, testers, pliers, etc. These tools are explained in our earlier article so
please check those electrical tools by clicking here.
5. Choose the components such as electrical boxes, switches, receptacles, etc. based on their
size and rating.
Start wiring the components together by following the wiring diagrams once components,
tools and cables are selected, followed by considering the safety to personnel as well as
equipment.

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Types of Electrical Wiring

We know that electrical circuit is a closed path through which electricity flows from phase or hot wire
to the device or apparatus and then back the source though neutral wire.
Along the way, the electricity path may consist of fixtures, switches, receptacles, junction boxes, etc.
So the wiring may be routed through these elements before actually making connections with
apparatus or device.
Majorly, the wiring is divided into two types, namely parallel wiring and series wiring depending on the
way the devices are powered or connected to the supply.

In parallel wiring, several devices on the installation are

powered on a single circuit. It is the most accepted wiring
in homes and industries, in which devices are connected
in parallel with the supply source as shown in figure.
In this, both phase (or hot) and neutral cables are routed
through the electrical boxes (junction boxes) from which
individual receptacles, fixtures, and devices are
branched.

The series wiring is the rarely used wiring in which

hot wire is routed through the several devices and
then last device terminal is connected to the neutral
wire. It is like an old Christmas lights or serial lights
wiring in which one light burnout leads to the
shutdown of the entire network.

Examples of Electrical Wiring

For a better understanding of the wiring concept,
here we are giving some examples of the wiring
circuits which we are dealing daily in our homes.

Single bulb controlled by a one way switch

In this, hot wire is connected to the one terminal of
the switch and other terminal of the switch is
connected to the bulb positive terminal, then bulb negative terminal is connected to the neutral wire as
shown in figure.

Two blubs are controlled by a one way switch

In this, two bulbs are connected in parallel with the supply wires (phase and neutrals) which are
routed by single one-way switch as shown in figure.

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Single blub (or any other load) controlled by two way switches
This wiring is also called as staircase wiring in which a light lamp is controlled from two sources by
using two two-way switches. This type of wiring is used in bed rooms to switch ON/OFF the lamp from
two sources (at the bed side and at switchboard). The connection of switches with the lamp is shown
below.

Godown Wiring
This type wiring is used in big godowns, long passages, warehouses and tunnel like structures having
many rooms or portions. It follows the linear sequence for switching the lights from one end to the
other.
When a person leaves from one room and enters next, by turning the light switch makes earlier lamp
switched OFF while present room is switched ON. It turns OFF the lamp while switching another. The
schematic wiring diagram for godown wiring is shown in below.

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Fluorescent lamp controlled by a one-way switch

The switching of fluorescent lamp with single one-way switch through ballast and capacitor is shown
in below figure. In this, phase wire is connected to the one end of the switch and another end of the
switch is connected to the choke (or ballast). One electrode of the lamp is connected to the choke and
other to neutral terminal as shown in figure.

Socket outlet wiring

The outlet holds a plug and passes the current through it when the power is routed to the socket
through a switch. The single socket connection and radial socket connection are shown in below
figure.

Control switch board wiring

The schematic diagram for a control switch board is shown in below figure in which ceiling fan,
fluorescent lamp and light bulb are controlled by appropriate switches.

https://www.electronicshub.org/electrical-systems-and-methods-of-electrical-wiring/

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BASIS OF LOAD CALCULATIONS

In order to plan the wiring, it will be necessary to do a certain amount of calculating for the service,
branch circuits, and feeder circuits. The purpose of the electrical load calculation is to accurately
determine the size of the electrical service based upon the electrical equipment that will be installed.
The national electrical codes are the basis of making sure the electrical service is sized properly and
installed correctly.

DEFINITIONS
Several definitions are essential to understanding branch circuit and feeder.

Ampacity – the current in amperes that a conductor can carry continuously under the condition of use
without exceeding its temperature rating.

Appliance – utilization equipment, generally other than industrial, that is normally built in
standardized sized or types and is installed or connected as a unit to perform one or more functions
such as clothes washing, air conditioning, food mixing, deep frying, and so forth.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) – the organization, office, or individual responsible for
approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure.

Branch Circuit – the circuit conductors between the final over current device protecting the circuit
and outlet.

Branch Circuit, Appliance – a branch circuit that supplies energy to one or more outlets to which
appliances are to be connected and that has no permanently connected
luminaires (lighting fixture) that are not a part of an appliance.

Brach Circuit, General-Purpose – a branch circuit that supplies two or more receptacles or outlets
for lighting and appliances.

Branch Circuit, Individual – a branch circuit that supplies only one utilization equipment.

Branch Circuit, Multiwire – a branch circuit that consist of two or more ungrounded conductors that
have voltage between them, and a grounded that has equal voltage between it and each ungrounded
conductor of the circuit and that is connected to the neutral or grounded conductor of the system.

Circuit Breaker – a device designed to open and close a circuit by nonautomatic means and to open
the circuit automatically on a predetermined overcurrent without damage to itself when properly
applied within its rating.

Continuous Load – load where the maximum current is expected to continue for 3 hours or more.

Coordination – localization of an overcurrent condition to restrict outages to the circuit or equipment

affected, accomplished by the choice of overcurrent protective devices and their ratings or settings.

Demand factor – the ratio of the maximum demand of a system or the part of the system under
consideration,

Device – a unit of an electrical system that is intended to carry or control but not utilize electrical
energy.

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BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDERS

OBJECTIVES:

After completing this chapter, you will be able to:

o Identify the feeder and branch circuit portions of distribution system.
o Describe the various types of branch circuit.
o Define the functions of a feeder and the functions of branch-circuit conductors.
o Calculate lighting and receptacle loads using code requirements.
o Size branch circuit according with the code.
o Determine the branch circuit overcurrent protection required by the code.
o Use the code to size the feeder conductors.

In an electrical system, power must be transferred from the service equipment to the lights,
machines, and outlets. Regardless of the wiring methods used, the conductors carrying the power fall
into one of two categories: feeders and branch circuit conductors. This chapter will explore the
characteristics of these two conductor types.

BRANCH CIRCUITS

Any current that extends beyond

the final overcurrent protective
device is called a branch circuit.
This includes circuits servicing single
motors (individual) and the circuits
servicing many lights and receptacle
(multiwire). Branch circuit are usually
low current (30 Amps or less), but
can also supply high currents.
A basic branch circuit is made up
of conductors extending from final
overcurrent device to the load. Some
branch circuit at the safety switches
(disconnects), but most originate at a Figure 3.1. Conductors are classified based on their location
panalboard. in the electrical system.

SEVERAL BRANCH CIRCUIT CLASSIFICATION:

 Individual Branch Circuit – A branch circuit that

supplies a single load or one utilization equipment.
 Multioulet Branch Circuit – a branch circuit supplies
multiple loads.
 General Purpose Branch Circuit – A multi-outlet
branch circuit that supplies a single multiple outlets for
appliances and lighting.
 Appliance Branch Circuit – A branch circuit that
supplies a single appliance load.
 Multiwire Branch Circuit – A branch circuit with two or
more ungrounded conductor and one grounded
conductor.

Figure 3.2. Branch circuits are

classified as individual or multioutlet,
appliance or general.

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BRANCH-CIRCUIT RATING

A branch circuit is sized for the load it will supply. Sizing the circuit for additional and future
loads is a good practice. The rating of branch circuit
depends on the rating of the overcurrent device protecting the circuit.
Branch circuits serving only one device can have any rating, while a circuit supplying more
than one load is limited ratings of 15, 20, 30, 40, or 50 amps.

BRANCH-CIRCUIT VOLTAGE

Branch circuit nominal voltage shall not exceed the values permitted by 2.10.1.(a) through
2.10.1.6(d). These limits are based on the equipment being supplied by the circuit.

(a) Occupancy Limitation. In dwelling units and guest rooms or guest suites of hotels, motels, and
similar occupancies, the voltage shall not exceed 230 volts, nominal, between conductors that
supply the terminals of the following:
(1) Luminaires (lighting fixture)
(2) Cord and plug connected loads 1440 volt-ampere, nominal, or less or less than ¼ hp.

(b) 230 Volts Between Conductors. Circuits not exceeding 230 volts nominal, between
conductors shall be permitted to supply the following:
(1) The terminal of lampholders applied within their voltage ratings
(2) Auxiliary equipment electric-discharge lamps
(3) Cord and plug connected or permanently connected utilization equipment

(c) Branch circuits exceeding 230 volts but not exceeding 277 volts may supply mogul-base
screw-shell lampholders, ballasts for fluorescent lighting, ballasts for electric discharge
lighting, Plug-connected appliances, and hard-wired appliances. Incandescent lighting
operating at 230 volts or less is permitted in commercial construction.

(d) Circuits exceeding 277 volts, nominal, to ground and up to 600 volts nominal shall be
permitted to supply the following:
(1) Listed electric-discharge luminaires (lighting fixture)
(2) Listed incandescent luminaires (lighting fixture), where supplied at 230 volts or less from
the output of a stepdown autotransformer that is an component of the luminaire (fixture)
and the outer shell terminal is electrically connected to grounded conductor of the branch
circuit.
(3) Luminaires (lighting fixture) equipped with mogul-base screw shell lampholders.
(4) Lampholders, other than the screw shell type, applied within their voltage ratings.
(5) Auxiliary equipment of electric discharge lamp.
(6) Cord-and-plug-connected or permanently connected utilization.

CONDUCTORS AND AMPACITY

The branch-circuit conductors shall have an ampacity not less than the maximum load to be
served. Where branch circuit supplies continuous loads or any combination of continuous and
noncontinuous loads, the minimum branch circuit conductor size before the application of any
adjustment or correction factors, shall have an allowable ampacity not less than the noncontinuous
load plus 125 percent of continuous load.

Multioutlet Branch-Circuit. Conductors of branch circuits supplying more than one

receptacle for cord-and-plug-connected portable loads shall have an ampacity of not less than the
rating of the branch circuit.

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MULTIWIRE BRANCH CIRCUITS

A branch circuit can be either a two-wire or multiwire branch circuit. A multiwire branch circuit
consists of a grounded conductor and or more ungrounded conductor. A multiwire can be individual
circuit or multioulet circuit.

CONDUCTOR COLOR CODE

Grounded conductors of branch circuits are identified by color. If the grounded conductor is 6
AWG or smaller, it is white gray with a color stripe, or has three continuous white stripes on other than
green insulation. If wires from different system are distinguished from one another. For example, the
neutral of one system would be white, the neutral of another system would be gray, and the neutral of
a third system would be white with a colored stripe. The equipment grounding conductor must be
green, green with yellow stripes, or bare (without any insulation).

Ungrounded or Hot conductors can be any color except white, gray, green, and white with a color
stripe. Normally, ungrounded or hot conductors are blue, black, and red. In three-phase four wire
delta system with a neutral connected at the midpoint of a winding, the “high leg” phase conductor
should be identified with orange markings.

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BRANCH-CIRCUIT LOADS

The PEC places load limitation on branch circuits with continuous loads (load with a
duration longer than three hours, such as lighting). The continuous load must not exceed 80% of the
rating allotted for it. If the overcurrent protective device is listed for continuous operation at 100% of
its rating, the 80% factor is not used. Branch circuit load shall be calculated as shown in 2.20.2.3,
2.20.2.5. 2.20.2.7.

BRANCH CIRCUIT LOADS ARE CLASSIFIED INTO FIVE CATEGORIES

 Lighting loads
 Receptacle loads
 Equipment loads
 Heating and cooling loads
 Motor loads

LIGHTING LOAD

In the broad sense, lighting loads may be categorized as follows:

 General lighting.
 Show-window lighting.
 Track lighting
 Sign and Outline Lighting
 Other lighting
Each lighting load is computed separately and then combined to determine the total
lighting load.

General Lighting

General lighting is the overhead lighting within a building. Its intensity should be adequate
for any type of work performed in the area. Determining the general lighting load can be based on
either the load per area method or the actual full load current of the fixtures used, whichever is
greater. Within a structure, there are normally several different types of areas- storage, office,
hallways, and cafeterias-and these must be considered separately.

Table 2.20.2.3 of the PEC contains general lighting loads (in VA/m2) for various types of
building. A condensed version of this table shown in Figure 4. The general lighting load is
calculated by multiplying the floor area (in m2) by the unit load (in VA/m2). If the load is continuous,
the calculated load is multiplied by 1.25 (the inverse of 80%) to determine the circuit requirements.

Type of Occupancy Unit Load (VA/m2)

Auditoriums 8
Banks 28
Barber Shops 24
Churches 8
Dwelling Units 24
Hospitals 16
Hotels 16
Office Buildings 28
Restaurant 16
Schools 24
Stores 24
Warehouses 2

Figure. Minimum general lighting loads are dependent on the type of area
being lit.

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FEEDERS

The conductors between the service equipment and the branch-circuit overcurrent devices are
called FEEDERS. Article 2.15- Feeders provides information of the regarding the safe and adequate
sizing and installation of these conductors. This article also applies to subfeeders, which provides
power to branch-circuit panels but originate at power distribution center rather than the service
equipment.
Feeder loading is dependent on the total power requirement of the system. If it is possible for all
connected loads to operate simultaneously, then the feeder must be sufficient ampacity to meet that
demand. If only 75% of the connected load will ever be operating at the same time, then the feeder
would be sized larger than the service conductors.
Prior to installation, certain factors must be considered to ensure the feeder size, type, and
overcurrent protection is correct for application.

o Material – The feeder can be copper or aluminum.

o Location – The environment around the feeder (damp, hot, corrosive) must be
considered.
o Wiring method – The feeder can be run in conduit, cable trays or other system
o Cable – Single or multiconductor cable can be used.
o Type – Feeders can be parallel or individual
o Length – Voltage drop becomes a consideration in long feeders.
o Derating factor – Conductor sizing includes several factors: conduit fill, ambient
temperature, and connected load demand.
o Neutral – A neutral wire may not be necessary with the feeder.
o Demand factor – Continuous loads will affect feeder size.
o Protection – various overcurrent protective devices can be used with feeders.

ELECTRICAL PLAN DESIGN

OBJECTIVES:
 Identify the steps in the electrical design process
 Determine the scope of an electrical design
 Interpret the various components of an electrical plan, including general and specialized
loads, lighting systems, and distribution systems.
 Recognized loads, lighting systems, and distribution systems.
 Recognize the symbols used in electrical plan design

INTRODUCTION
For all building construction or remodeling building projects, the owner or the occupant must first
have a concept for the new design, and then the architect or designer can produce a set of building
plans. These plans convey all the required information to the local inspection authority and associated
building trades so that the construction or remodeling can take place. Because commercial and
industrial buildings contain a number of electrical design systems, these plans include specific
electrical designs and additional documentation to verify that the design conforms to all required
building codes.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROJECT SCOPE

Every electrical design has unique requirements, depending on the scope of the project. The project
scope determined by the customer’s requirements and the type of structure that the customer will
occupy. For example, if the project requires new electrical system foe existing building, then the
electrical designer works to incorporate all the new electrical wiring into existing system.

DEFINING THE PARTS OF ELECTRICAL PLAN

Depending on the overall scope of the project, a design can include the following components:
 General electrical requirements (e.g., general purpose receptacles)
 Specialized electrical requirements (e.g., specialized office equipment or machinery)
 Lighting system
 Electrical distribution systems

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GENERAL ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

General electrical requirements should be defined first on any electrical design project.
General electrical requirements are items such as the general purpose receptacles outlets
located throughout the commercial or industrial building. These receptacles are usually not
specified to serve any particular load but rather are for general purpose use such as for
desktop devices, standard wall receptacles, and desktop computer equipment with no special
electrical requirements.

SPECIALIZED ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

Certain projects may include specialized electrical equipment that requires separate or
dedicated electrical circuitry that serves only the specialized equipment. This equipment may
the following.

 Computer and/or network servers

 Photocopiers
 Microwave ovens and other lunchroom appliances
 Vending machines
Because of their electrical load requirements, as per the manufacturer’s requirements,
these pieces of equipment may require individual circuitry and special methods.

LIGHTING SYSTEM

Because of their complexity, lighting systems are the part of the design process that generally
requires the greatest amount time to develop. These systems include the entire lighting fixture and
their controls. Lighting systems have very detailed requirements as per the PEC and require
documentation showing that the system incorporates all required energy saving technologies.

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
An electrical distribution system is the installed equipment that provides for the distribution of
electrical wiring throughout the facility. It includes the main switchboard, which receives the power
source from the serving utility, and all the associated components such as panelboards that distribute
the entire required branch throughout the facility. Part of the process of designing the distribution
system is calculating the facility amperage load and short-circuits values; these calculations
determine the total electrical demand requirements of the facility based on the individual parts of the
electrical system.

DETERMINING APPLICABLE STANDARDS

Once each part of the design plan has been defined, the next stage to design each part to
industry –recognized standards as well as any additional standards forth by the local jurisdiction for
commercial or industrial occupancies. The primary industry standard is the National Electrical Code
(NEC), published by the National Fire Protection Association (NPFA). The NEC (commonly referred to
as (”the Code”) and the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC), published by the Philippine Institute of
Integrated Electrical Engineers is revised every three years and results in the publication of a new
edition. Although the code is applied on the national level, some local jurisdictions may have
additional standards that exceed the requirement of the PEC or they may use a previous edition of the
code.
For projects based on a national template (such as is often the case with retail outlets and
fast-food chains), any requirements or adjustments that are necessary to conform to local code
requirements should be documented in the final plan in a general notes section. Please note that only
officially documented standards may be enforced, not widespread, unofficial community practice.

Some projects will also have additional requirements based on their specific components, such as
those including specialized electrical equipment. An electrical designer should always consider
manufacturer guidelines for specialized equipment and use the appropriate electrical equipment
standard set forth by the manufacturer for overcurrent protection size, specialized grounding
requirements and so forth. These specialized equipment may require that additional specialized wiring
practices be observed; when this is the case, these specialized requirements must be documented on
the plan.

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Designers must also consider the standards of the National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA), which includes standards for motor lead identification, transformer

terminal markings, plug and receptacle devices, and amperage ratings, and the Electrical Apparatus
and Service Association (EASA), which provides current and updated information for motors and
controls. Designs that include lighting systems must conform to national or state-mandated energy
saving requirements. Designers should consult the Illuminating and Engineering Society of North
America (IESNA) standards for lights and lighting products properly documented the design to
ensure that it meets all the required criteria.
For projects that include new or upgraded parts of distribution systems served from a local
utility, designers must consider any requirements set forth by the serving utility. These requirements
may dictate the wiring methods and equipment required for the proper distribution from the serving
utility to the customer. Calculated load values must reference manufacturer guidelines to ensure that
distribution system will support these loads.
In all case, designers must have not only solid electrical knowledge and a thorough
understanding of electrical calculations their necessity but also of the application of all relevant codes
and standards utilized within the electrical industry.

CREATING THE ELECTRICAL PLAN

Once the various parts and applicable standards has been determined, the designer begins
compiling those parts to form the electrical design and complete a set of plans.
Historically, these plans took the form of hand-drawn blueprints, but today most plans are created
digitally using computer-aided design (CAD) software tools. Digitized plans are easier to revise and
transmit than those drawn with pen and pencil.
On the plans, each device should be referenced using the appropriate electrical symbol. Electrical
plan symbols allow for universal recognition of each part by the many persons who will be working on
the project so that they can estimate cost appropriately and construct the project to the specifications.
The standardized electrical symbols used for building plans are provided by American National
Standard Institute (ANSI).
Not all symbols are used on every project, so the specific symbols used on a particular project
should be included in a symbols list and attached to the final design. Occasionally the need may arise
for a symbol that has not been developed (such as a symbol for a newer energy-saving or energy
management device). In this case, the designer may create a new symbol for electrical plan, as long
as it is added to the symbol list included with the plan.
Electrical design plans may be included as a separate document within a complete set of building
plans. To identify the electrical plans, each page on the electrical plan is labeled and numbered: E 1,
E2, E3, and so forth. Please note that these electrical sheets (often called “E sheets”) are not
architectural E sheets, which denote a standard size paper. Electrical sheets are generally presented
in the following order:
 Exterior electrical plan site
 Interior electrical power plan
 Interior lighting plan
 Documentation (such as panel schedules, electrical calculations, single line diagrams
and lighting system energy requirements?
The number of electrical sheets required for a project varies based on the amount of required for a
project varies based on the amount of required information can fit on one page and still provide for a
clear, concise understandable set of prints.

PHILIPPINE ELECTRICAL CODE PLANS AND SPECIFICATION

1.3.2.1 PLAN REQUIREMENT

(A) Location and Site Plans. Location and site plans, with proposed structure and owner’s land
drawn to appropriate metric scale shall show:

1. Bordering areas showing public or well-kwon streets, landmarks and/or structures which
need not be drawn to scale unless they extend into the area concerned;

2. Location of service drop, service equipment and nearest pole of the utility company
furnishing electrical energy; location of the meter as well as sizes of service entrance wires,
conduits and service equipment; and
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3. Clearance of the path or run of service drops entrance wires to adjacent existing and/or
proposed structures.

(B) Legend and Symbols – refer to appendix A of the code – Electrical Symbols

(C) General Notes and/or Specification. General Notes and/or specifications, written on the plans
or submitted on separate standard size sheets shall show:

1. Nature of electrical service, including number of phases, number of wires, voltage and
frequency;
2. Type of wiring;
a) Service entrance
b) Feeders, sub-feeders and branch circuit wires for lighting and/or power load
c) Fire alarm system, if required by law
d) Signaling and communication
3. Special equipment to be installed, indicating ratings and classification of service or duty
cycle of;
a) Rectifiers
b) Heaters
c) X-ray apparatus
d) Electric welding equipment
e) Others
4. System of grounding;
5. Type and rating of main disconnecting means, overcurrent protection (OCP) and branch
circuit wiring;
6. Clearances of service drop, buried depth for service lateral, mounting height and clearance
for service equipment, mounting height and clearance for kWh meter.
D) Electrical Layout. Floor plan showing location of equipment

READING ELECTRICAL PLANS

INTRODUCTION
The first thing that an electrician should do upon receiving a set of plans for a building is to review
them, scanning each one to get an overview of the building. The electrical system, the air-conditioning
and heating systems, and the plumbing system for a building are very closely related. Design
electricians and installation electrician must coordinate the systems of all trade areas to have a well-
designed and smooth installation on the job. This chapter will deal with reading of electrical plans.
On larger buildings, the electrical plans usually contain plans for lighting power distribution
(showing the receptacle and special connection), panel schedules, and other schedules and details
pertaining to the electrical system.

READING THE ELECTRICAL PLANS

The larger drawing on sheet E-1, Electrical Figure 1, is the floor plan. The lighting plan and the power
distribution plan can consolidate on the same floor plan. Lighting fixtures are shown with rectangles
for fluorescent and circuits for other types of fixtures. Each lighting fixture is identified by a letter of the
alphabet.
These letters are shown on the lighting fixture schedule on the plan.
The power distribution is also shown on the plan. The electrical receptacles use the standard
symbol. The hash marks on the circuit lines indicated the number of the conductors (wire) required.
All of the circuit are indexed (numbered), and these numbers indicate the number of the circuit
breaker in the distribution panel. A schedule for panel A is shown on plan with each circuit numbered.
The service to the panel is shown with a separate detail. The main circuit breaker is located inside
Panel A.

THE ELECTRICAL WIRING

The electrical wiring is shown with an arched line to electrical devices and arched lines between
lighting fixtures or between receptacles. On each wire hash marks indicating how many wiring are
required with the circuit. The arrowhead at the end of the wiring symbol indicates that the conduit is to
be extended to the panel. The small number located at the arrowhead gives the number of the circuit
breaker to which wiring is connected. The panel detailed located in the lower left-hand side indicates
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the circuit breaker numbers. The wiring shown with broken lines, and the receptacles connected with
these broken lines, are alternate (marked ALT). The ALT marking means that the contractor should
give a separate price for this work, and can decide whether to include this work in the contract.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SHOWN ON ELECTRICAL PLAN

The electrical plan on Sheet E-1 contains additional information that should be noted at this point. A
lighting fixture schedule on the plan describes the lighting fixtures that are to be used on the job. Each
fixture shown on the floor plan has corresponds to the fixture schedule.
A symbol schedule identifies the symbols used on the plan. The power riser diagram is shown in
the lower right-hand corner of the plan restricts the use of the plans

ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The electrical specifications, like mechanical specification, contain written instruction and descriptions
about construction equipment and procedures. The specifications for this job were bound with the
general contract specification and are not available with this text.

UNDERSTANDING THE PLANS

As previously noted, it is very important for persons reading the plans to understand the plans
thoroughly before attempting to estimate the cost of the job or to construct the job. After construction
is begun, the various trades often have to do their installation in the same limited space. For this
reason, coordination on the job between the different contractors is necessary to complete the job
satisfactorily.

ELECTRICAL
Electrical work shown on the site plan can be the first sheet of the electrical section. The electrical
section also includes the following:

1. Foundation/Basement Plan – shows electrical equipment (panel boards, switches, electrical

outlets, etc.) required for the basement, located in the crawl space, or located under a slab on
grade.
2. Floor Plans – show the electrical equipment required for each floor, including receptacles,
lighting fixtures, and necessary electrical connection to equipment furnished by other
contractors.
3. Roof Plan – electrical wiring, equipment, and electrical connection to equipment on the roof
are shown on the electrical roof plan.
4. Elevation, Section, and Details – are detailed drawing showing how the electrical equipment
is installed. Special instruction and information are relayed to the electrical worker through
these drawings.
5. Schedule Plan – contains schedules for the electrical devices, including the following:
a. Lighting Fixture schedule
b. Panel board schedule
c. Conduit and raceway schedule
Sheet E-1 of the construction drawing in this chapter shows the electrical floor plan, symbol
schedule, lighting fixture schedule, and a panel board schedule for small bank and trust
company.
The Electrician should be familiar with the electrical plans. The location of equipment
electrical disconnects will be important when installing equipment. Codes require lighting in
certain attic spaces and a GFCI protected circuit near ground level and rooftop air
conditioning equipment.

CURRENT, VOLTAGE, RESISTANCE AND WATTS

To understand the wiring in a building you should know how electricity flows. Electricity is energy. To
do any work (turn a motor, light a lamp, or produce heat) the electrical must have movement, this
movement is called current. The amount of current is measured in amperes, sometimes called amps.
A single household-type light bulb requires a current of slightly less than 1 ampere. An electric water
heater might require 50 amperes.

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The amount of force of pressure causing the current to allow affects the amount of current. The
force behind an electric current is called voltage. If 115 volts causes a current of 5 amperes, 230
volts will cause a current flow of 10 amperes.
The ease with which the current is able to flow through the devices also affects the amount of
current. The ease or difficulty also affects the amount of current flows through the device is called the
resistance of the device. As the resistance goes up, the current flow goes down. As the resistance
goes down, the current flow goes up.
The amount of work the electricity can do in any device depends on both the amount of current
(amps) and the force of the current (volts). Electrical work is measured in watts. The number of watts
of power in a device can be found by multiplying the number of amperes by the number of volts.
Stated another way the current flowing in a device can be found by dividing the number of watts by
the voltage. For example, how much current flows through a 1,500-watts heater at 115 volts? 1,500
divided by 115 equals about 13 amperes.

CIRCUITS

In order for current to flow, in must have a continuous

path from the power source, through electrical device,
and back to its source. This complete path is called a
circuit, Electrical Figure 3.
Many circuits include one or more switches. A
switch allows the continuous path to be broken,
Electrical Figure 4. By using two 3-way switches, the
circuit can be controlled from two places, Electrical
Figure 5. When the circuit is broken by a switch, a
broken wire, or for any other reason, it is said to be
open.
Any material that carries electric current is called a
conductor. In Electrical Figure 3 each wires is a
conductor. When two or more wire conductors are
bundle together, they make a cable, Electrical Figure 6.
In larger buildings the wiring is frequently installed
by pulling individual wires through steel or

plastic pipes, called conduit. In houses it is more common

to use cables containing the needed wires

plus one ground conductor. The ground does not normally

carry current. The ground, as it is usually abbreviated,
connects all of the electrical devices in the house to the
ground. If, because of some malfunction, the voltage
reaches a part of the device that someone might touch,
the ground protects him or her from a serious shock. The
current that might otherwise flow through the person
follows the ground conductor to the earth. The earth
actually carries this current back to the generating
station.

Additional protection against serious shock can be

provided by using a ground-fault circuit interrupter
(GFCI). A GFCI is a device that measures the flow in the
hot (ungrounded) conductor and the neutral (return) conductor. If a faulty device allows some of the
current to flow through a person rather than the neutral conductor, the GFCI are so effective that the
Philippine Electrical Code and National Electrical Code requires their use on circuits for outlets
installed outdoors, in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and near any other water hazards.
The service feeder cable ends at distribution panel. From the distribution panel, the electrical
system is split up to several Branch-Circuits, Electrical Figure 7.

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Each branch circuits for special equipment such as

water heaters and air conditioners serve that piece of
equipment only. Branch circuits for small appliances
and miscellaneous use may serve several outlets.
Branch circuits for lighting are restricted to lighting only,
but a single circuit may serve several lights. Lighting
circuits also include switches to turn the lights on and
off.

The Philippine Electrical Code published by

Institute Integrated Electrical Engineers, which specifies
the design of electrical systems. Electrical Engineers
and electrician must know this code, which is accepted
as the standard for all installations. The following are
among the items covers:

 Kinds and size of conductors

 Location of outlets and devices
 Overcurrent protection (fuses and circuit breakers)
 Number of conductor allowed in a box
 Safe construction of devices
 Grounding
 Switches

The specification for the structure indicated such things as the type and quality of the equipment
to be used, the kind of wiring method, and any other information that is not given on the drawings.
However, electricians must know the Philippine Electrical Code and any state or local codes that
apply because specifications sometimes refer to these codes.

ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS ON PLANS

The drawing s for electrical plan construction usually includes electrical information on the floor plan.
Only the symbols for outlets, light fixtures, switches, and switch wiring included. The exact location of
the device may not dimension. The position of the device is determined by the electrician after
observing the surrounding construction. It should also be noted that all wiring is left to the judgment of
the electrician and the regulation of the electrical codes. Switch wiring for light fixtures is included only
to show which switches control each light fixture. Switch wiring is shown by broken line connecting the
devices and its switch, Electrical Figure 8.
In rooms without a permanent light fixture, one or more convenience outlets may be split wired
and controlled by a switch. In split wiring one-half of the outlets is always hot; the other half can be
opened by a switch, Electrical Figure 9.

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Electrical symbols are used to indicate the parts of an electrical design.

ESTIMATING A JOB

All electricians have to do some estimating. People want to know what it will cost before contracting
for a job. In electrical wiring, estimating requires a lot of time and effort. The electrician must charge
the customer for the materials to be used (e.g., wires, switches, plugs), the cost of labor and
supervision, overhead expenses (e.g., the cost of maintaining an office and operating trucks)—plus
enough to make a profit. If you bid on a commercial or industrial job, as the electrical contractor you
must provide a detailed listing of what it will cost to do the job. A bid on residential wiring does not
require so much detail. However, before preparing any bid, you should have a set of drawings that
specify all of the materials to be used and what is to be done.

CHECKLIST FOR ESTIMATING

• Receptacles
• Light fixtures
• Switches: 3-way, 4-way, single-pole
• Receptacle cover plates
• Switch cover plates
• Boxes; square, octagonal, switch, receptacle
• Wire nuts, hangers, connectors, ground clips, staples
• 240-volt service
• Wire
• Receptacles
• Oven
• Surface burners
• Dryer
• Others
• Circuit breakers
• Circuit breaker box
• Wire (signal and Romex)
• Conduit
• Conduit fittings
• Labor
• Travel
• Overhead
• Miscellaneous

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LEARNING ACTIVITIES 1.1

Name: __________________________________ Course&Major: _____________ Date: _________

Instruction: Answer the following. Write your answer in a separate sheet.

1. Draw and explain neat wiring diagram for house installation showing connection for energy
meter, main switch and distribution boards.
2. Describe the various system of distribution of electrical energy for internal wiring.
3. Explain the looping-in-system and cutout system of wiring and compare them.
4. Name various types of wiring systems commonly used in and explain any one of them in
detail.
5. Name various types of wiring system. Compare them on the basis of cost, life, maintenance,
appearance and protection against mechanical injury, fire and moisture.
6. Enumerate the various methods of interior wiring of buildings. Explain briefly what points must
be considered before deciding any type of the above methods of wiring.
7. Enlist the various types of wires or cables usually used in internal wiring of buildings. Why
PVC cables are most widely used for internal wiring these days?
8. What is Fuse and what is its purpose? Discuss.
9. What are the different types of fuse used? Why is a fuse inserted in the phase wire, never in
neutral wire?
10. Describe different types of fuse units. Why are HRC fuses used?
11. With the help of diagram explain working of leakage circuit breaker(ELCB).
12. Explain the necessity and the operation leakage circuit breaker.
13. Draw the wiring diagram, schematic diagram and single line diagram of one light, one ceiling
fan with regulator and one 5 A 3 pin plug point each controlled by individual switches.
14. Draw schematic and wiring diagram for stair-case lighting.
15. Draw a circuit diagram for bed room lighting.
16. What are the function of earthing in an electrical installations? Discuss one of method of
earthing.
17. Explain the importance of earth-line in the electrical system in detail.
18. What do you understand by earthing? Why it is provided? Draw a neat sketch of pipe
earthing.
19. Discuss methods of earthing electrical installation.
20. Draw the wiring diagram for electrifying a residential building from the pole to the consumer’s
2-way distribution board incorporating all the devices provided between them.
21. What do you mean by insulation resistance between conductors of an installation? Describe
briefly by a sketch how will you perform these test by a megger and state why these tests are
necessary?
22. State and describe with relevant circuit diagrams the various tests to be conducted according
to IE rules before energizing a domestic installation.
23. Describe polarity test for a single pole switches.
24. Write short notes on the following:
(i) Domestic wiring.
(ii) Stair-case wiring.
(iii) Importance of fuse
(iv) Miniature circuit breaker (MCB)
(iv) ELCB
(vi) Necessity of earthing
(vii) Power wiring
(viii) Testing of wiring installations.

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LEARNING ACTIVITIES 1.2

Name: __________________________________ Course&Major: _____________ Date: _________

Instruction: SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTION. Write your answer in a separate sheet.

Q.1. What is the maximum number of points of light, fan and socket outlets that can be connected in
one sub-circuit?
Q.2. What is the maximum load (light and fan) that can be connected in sub-circuit?
Q.3. On what basic is the number of circuits/sub-circuits determined in house
Q.5. Which system is used connections of various lamps or appliances in parallel?
Q.6.Which of the following wiring systems is commonly used for light/fan load in domestic and
commercial buildings?
(a) Cleat wiring.
(b) Casing-capping wiring.
(c) TRS wiring.
(d) Lead sheathed wiring.
(e) PVC wiring.
Q.7. Which wiring system is employed in mechanical workshops?
Q.8. Why conductor is covered with insulating material?
Q.9. PVC cables are most widely used in internal wiring. Why?
Q.10.Where are flexible cords used?
Q.11. What is MCB?
Q.12. What is ELCB?
Q.13. What is meant by a fuse?
Q.14. On what principle does the fuse operate?
Q.15. What kind of protection is offered by a fuse?
Q.16. What function does the fuse perform?
Q.17. Give the names of the five materials with their melting points which are used for fuse elements.
Q.18. What materials is mostly used for an ordinary fuse wire?
Q.19. what is fuse link?
Q.20. Why charcoal and salt is used in earthing?
Q.21. Give the application of rod earthing.
Q.22. What is the maximum load that is usually connected in a power sub-circuit?
Q.23. What is the maximum number of outlets, which can be connected in a power sub-circuit?
Q.24. What is meant by service line
Q.25. What is the aim of performing IR test between the wiring and earth?
Q.26. Why polarity test is performed?

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