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[ { "title": "READ | Are you ready for Industry 4.0?", "nid": "472", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EStep into the future with the arrival of The Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0. Large-scale machine-to-machine communication and the Internet of Things (IoT) are being integrated for increased automation, improved communication, and self-monitoring. Is your facility ready for the automation of traditional manufacturing and industrial practices, using modern smart technology?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWelcome to Industry 4.0\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe fourth industrial revolution, which came into existence in the past few years, is established as Industry 4.0. More flexible production, greater productivity, and the development of new business models are all possible today thanks to digital solutions. But the future of industry offers even more potential\u2026 Cutting-edge technologies will create new opportunities for both discrete and process industries to fulfil their customers\u2019 specific and individual requirements. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ELet\u2019s take a closer look at what characterises Industry 4.0\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EDesign principles\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThere are four design principles that are associated with Industry 4.0:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Technical assistance\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe technological facility of systems to assist humans in decision-making and problem-solving, and the ability to help humans with difficult or unsafe tasks.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Decentralized decisions \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETis refers to the ability of cyber physical systems to make decisions on their own and to perform their tasks autonomously. Only in the case of exceptions, interference, or conflicting goals, are tasks delegated to a higher level. \u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Interconnection\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe ability of machines, devices, sensors, and people to connect and communicate with each other via the \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--The-IoT-Story\u0022\u003EInternet of Things (IoT)\u003C/a\u003E,\u003C/strong\u003E or the internet of people (IoP).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Information transparency\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDecision-making is facilitated by the information transparency afforded by Industry 4.0 technology. Furthermore, inter-connectivity provides operators with huge amounts of data and information from all points in the manufacturing process.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is The Digital Twin?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDeveloping a new product, planning a new plant, or producing with the help of digital tools creates a detailed virtual image, the digital twin.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe digital twin is the precise virtual model of a product or a production plant. The digital twin creates new insights, thanks to the combination of physics-based simulations with data analytics in a fully virtual environment. This makes it possible to realize innovations faster, while also requiring significantly fewer real prototypes. Even more data is created when the product is being produced or a plant begins operation. The performance data of the production and real product is being collected, analyzed and fed back into development.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EVertical Integration in Industry 4.0\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EVertical integration adds data analytic capabilities to the shop floor. In other words: operation technology (OT) is now combined with information technology (IT) capabilities. As a result, this provides entirely new findings and optimization potential, ranging from predictive maintenance and condition monitoring to improved validation and quality management processes and entirely new business models, such as pay per use.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe approach also enables the use of artificial intelligence with industrial applications. Vertical integration and its ability to combine OT and IT is thus driving implementation of the Industrial Internet of Things. A prerequisite for vertical integration is ensuring seamless data throughput across all interfaces, from different field devices and systems to higher-level control systems and platforms, and even the cloud.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EIs your facility Industry 4.0-ready?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDigitalization is transforming industry. Greater flexibility, virtual validation, industrial controllers, and edge computing are some of the hot topics and trends that will likely dominate Industry 4.0 going forward.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://new.siemens.com/global/en/company/topic-areas/digital-enterprise.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to learn more about the future of industry and the Digital Enterprise.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Smart Automation Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us about aligning\u00A0your facility to Industry 4.0!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Smart Automation Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Industry 4.0\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002287d66e88-b58b-46d7-9efe-f85e5c1ea904\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mathworks_Promo_Industry_4.0___938674002.5e0630a8da255.png\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Education" }, { "title": "LEARN | New Series on Vibration Monitoring - Part 2", "nid": "469", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EWhen vibration increases beyond normal levels, it may be a sign of alignment issues or source of trouble. In order to avoid costly downtime, you will need fast and actionable answers. In this article, we outline when and how to use \u0026amp; set-up vibration monitoring on assets.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMissed out on the first article in the series? Click below to catch up now:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPart One \u2013 Understanding vibration: Causes and effects\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy choose vibration monitoring? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe need for actionable data in plants and other facilities is typically unquestioned by most reliability and maintenance teams. Where people typically diverge is in a few areas:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen to measure/gather data\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow frequently to measure\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETechnologies to add to assets\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Fluke Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022P-F Curve\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022b8fe8265-8145-4c5b-8da1-d3a77cae663d\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fluke-PF-Curve-1.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe P-F curve above shows the time interval between potential failures on the upper left until machine failure occurs on the lower right. Most assets follow a curve in their lifecycle, from good to progressively worse, until they completely fail.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMany reliability industry leaders feel using this P-F interval is important because:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1. Long before an asset fails, it usually begins to consume more energy and lose overall performance.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n2. The earlier a problem can be detected and corrected, the less it costs to repair (an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECertain technologies have the ability to detect emerging failures long before the asset fails. These are often called \u201Cpredictive technologies,\u201D and are typically part of condition monitoring programs. This is a theoretical framework that may vary from asset to asset, and the point is not to say that personnel should repair a machine at the earliest sign of failure because it may be too early. These early indicators simply signal that additional maintenance actions, such as lubricating the bearings or beginning to plan and schedule maintenance, may help avoid unexpected failures and downtime. \u003Cstrong\u003EThese technologies include:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOil analysis\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUltrasound\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EVibration\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMotor circuit testing\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThermography\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEach technology may be used in combination or individually.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhen should vibration screening be used?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEvery machine component produces a unique vibration signal. Signals displayed in the spectrum often form characteristic patterns. Pattern recognition is a key part of vibration analysis, but significant training and experience are necessary to recognize and read the patterns. Vibration analysis can watch bearing wear across 12 to 18 months as they go from slight wear (no action) to extreme wear (replace bearings immediately). Oil analysis can only be performed on oil-cooled bearings (fewer and fewer are used every day). Ultrasound finds bearing wear too early to replace the bearings (use to know when to grease the bearings instead).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETable 1 below is a simplified overview of the patterns used to recognize the four most common machine faults, particularly in rotating assets.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Fluke Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Machine faults\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00228e16b95a-99c9-4d20-a733-806ce2aeb518\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Table%20for%20machine%20faults.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration screening can identify abnormalities caused by most of these faults as they begin \u2014 in the early stages, providing precipitous warning of impending failure. The severity of the four common faults can be tracked over time based on the history from hundreds of thousands of machines that have been analyzed by many vibration experts over 30 years. This knowledge and experience have been incorporated into rule-based algorithms and a baseline database that have been proven to be effective on standard rotating machines \u2014 motors, pumps, fans, compressors, blowers and single-shaft spindles.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHandheld vibration meters can be used for route-based, preventive strategies. A more flexible method is screening with continuous remote, wireless sensors.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cu\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenefits of Vibration Monitoring and Analysis\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/vibration/understanding-the-benefits-of-vibration-monitoring-and-analysis\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to learn about the benefits of monitoring and analyzing vibration.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERegardless of the method used, vibration technology can provide reliability and maintenance teams with actionable data that can help determine when further analysis is required to decide when steps such as re-lubrication, repairs or replacements should be made.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECatch vibration issues early with vibration data that identifies imbalance, looseness, misalignment, and bearing failures. Do you need advice on what vibration tools and software is best suited for your specific requirement? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Fluke Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our experts now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ESource:\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/condition-monitoring/when-and-how-to-use-and-set-up-vibration-monitoring-on-assets\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/condition-monitoring/when-and-how-to-use-and-set-up-vibration-monitoring-on-assets\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Education, Fluke, General" }, { "title": "LEARN | New Series on Vibration Monitoring - Part 1", "nid": "468", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EMonitoring machines for vibration can save you time and money. A machine going offline can impact quality and production. Monitoring machines for vibration issues identifies trends and helps reduce the potential for the machine going offline.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn the first article of this NEW series, we will outline what vibration is, common causes of vibration and the effects of vibration. Watch this space to catch the full series!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is Vibration? \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration is simply a back and forth movement\u2014or oscillation\u2014of machines and components in motorized equipment. Vibration in industrial equipment can be a symptom, or cause, of a problem, or it can be associated with normal operation. For example, oscillating sanders and vibratory tumblers rely on vibration to function. Internal combustion engines and gear drives, on the other hand, experience a certain amount of unavoidable vibration.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat are the most common causes of vibration? \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration can indicate a problem and if left unchecked can cause damage or expedited deterioration. Vibration can be caused by one or more factors at any given time, the most common being imbalance, misalignment, wear and looseness.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Imbalance\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA \u0022heavy spot\u0022 in a rotating component will cause vibration when the unbalanced weight rotates around the machine\u0027s axis, creating a centrifugal force. As machine speed increases the effects of imbalance become greater. Imbalance can severely reduce bearing life as well as cause undue machine vibration.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Misalignment\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration can result when machine shafts are out of line. Angular misalignment occurs when the axes of (for example) a motor and pump are not parallel. Misalignment can be caused during assembly or develop over time, due to thermal expansion, components shifting or improper reassembly after maintenance. The resulting vibration can be radial or axial (in line with the axis of the machine) or both.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Wear\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAs components such as ball or roller bearings, drive belts or gears become worn, they might cause vibration. When a roller bearing race becomes pitted, for instance, the bearing rollers will cause a vibration each time they travel over the damaged area. A gear tooth that is heavily chipped or worn, or a drive belt that is breaking down, can also produce vibration.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Looseness\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration that might otherwise go unnoticed can become obvious and destructive if the component that is vibrating has loose bearings or is loosely attached to its mounts. Such looseness might or might not be caused by the underlying vibration. Whatever its cause, looseness can allow any vibration present to cause damage, such as further bearing wear, wear and fatigue in equipment mounts and other components.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat are the effects of vibration?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVibration can accelerate machine wear, consume excess power, and cause equipment to be taken out of service, resulting in unplanned downtime. Other effects of vibration include safety issues and diminished working conditions. When measured and analyzed properly, however, vibration can play an important role in preventive maintenance programs. It can serve as an indicator of machine condition and allow plant maintenance professionals to act before damage or disaster strike.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConsider these variables when analyzing vibration:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDirection, such as radial or axial\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAmplitude, severity\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFrequency, expressed in cycles per minute (CPM) or Hertz (Hz)\u2014one Hz equals one second, or 60 CPM\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPlant maintenance technicians need to be able to differentiate between normal and abnormal vibration. A good understanding of vibration basics and the right tool is all a plant maintenance technician needs to quickly and reliably get to the bottom of vibration-related issues, including finding the root cause and severity, then determining the need for service or repair.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAre you looking for solution to mitigate the effects of vibration? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Fluke Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our experts about the Fluke range of vibration testers and software!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Fluke Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Vibration\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022a686c6fe-bc5a-4eff-aad1-e9baf9706302\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fluke%20Vibration.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ESource:\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/vibration/most-common-causes-of-machine-vibration\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/vibration/most-common-causes-of-machine-vibration\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Education" }, { "title": "NEW SERIES - The Fundamentals of Circuit Breakers (part 4)", "nid": "466", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019re wrapping up our series on Circuit Breakers by taking a look at:\u003Cbr /\u003E\n1. The common reasons why an industrial circuit breaker might trip\u003Cbr /\u003E\n2. How to size a circuit breaker\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMissed out on previous articles in this series? Click below to catch up now!\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers---part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart One \u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0 - Circuit breaker basics and how they compare to fuses\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES---The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers-part-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart Two\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0 - Circuit breaker components\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES---The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers-part-3\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart Three\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0 - Types of circuit breakers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003E\u003Cu\u003ECommon reasons why Circuit Breakers Trip\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA circuit breaker that trips regularly is annoying \u2013 but this actually indicates that the breaker is doing its job properly, which is to cut off the electric supply when an excessive current is detected in the circuit. Refer to \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers---part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cb\u003EPart One\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/a\u003E in this series to learn more about how circuit breakers work.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhy would an industrial circuit breaker trip in an industrial facility? Take a look at some of the most common reasons:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Short circuit fault\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOccurs when there is contact between a neutral and live conductor, causing a current to be drawn that is much higher than the rated value\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIn this instance, the magnetic tripping mechanism is activated to clear the fault and prevent a fire or damage to equipment\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Ground fault\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOccurs when a live conductor touches a conductive surface that is not a part of the circuit\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf the current is extremely high, the fault must be cleared immediately by the magnetic tripping mechanism in the circuit breaker\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Electrical circuit overload\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOccurs when the current passing through the circuit breaker exceeds its rated value for a duration longer than what\u2019s normal for the application\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIt\u2019s also possible for the breaker to trip due to an overload when the disconnection does not occur immediately (e.g. when the thermal mechanism is acting instead of the magnetic one)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Selecting the incorrect breaker for the application\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIt is imperative to correctly size and select a circuit breaker to ensure it matches the specific application\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFor example: If you use a Type B breaker that trips at 3\u20135 times its rated current for a motor that draws 8 times its rated current when started, it would be impossible for the circuit breaker to start because it would react as if a fault has occurred, and would disconnect the motor immediately\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003E\u003Cu\u003ESizing a Circuit Breaker\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo properly calculate the correct circuit breaker size, numerous factors need to be considered. Examples of these include the environment temperature, load type, cable material, and so forth.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor the purpose of illustrating a calculation example, we are simplifying it to the basics and assuming the power factor is 1 (Resistive load).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe examples below can be used to size a circuit breaker for both single phase and three phase systems. Note that it has been suggested that the size of the circuit breaker should not be more than 125 % of the current flowing through the circuit.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003E1. Single Phase Supply\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAssuming that it is being powered by a supply of 230V, how do we calculate the correct circuit breaker size for a load of 1840W?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECircuit Current:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Calculation 1\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022a3e6e4b2-c859-4148-a0b9-61cb3dd914f8\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Calc%201.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe minimum rating of the circuit breaker should be 8 A.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECircuit Breaker Size:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Calculation 2\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00228aeddd66-21a0-4b22-8abd-bd5bf39679dc\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Calc%202.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe recommended size of the circuit breaker is 10A.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003E2. Three Phase Supply\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat is the size of the circuit breaker that should be used for a residential 6.5kW, three phase 480V load?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECircuit Current:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Calculation 3\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022f5257432-8124-4b1b-9f98-1c99b0401e33\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Calc%203.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECircuit Breaker Size:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Calculation 4\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022fabd1ebd-85c3-453e-b269-f692d381e56b\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Calc%204.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe recommended size of the circuit breaker that should be used is 10A.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESizing a three phase system will vary depending on the type of load i.e., light, motor, inductive or capacitive. Click \u003Ca href=\u0022https://hto.power.schneider-electric.com/cbt/app/index.html?code=a12ef77f-8e48-4398-82e1-23bbd9b610d2\u0026amp;client_id=cbt#/Dashboard\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E for more circuit breaker selection tools.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECircuit breakers is a vast subject, and we\u0027ve just scratched the surface. Have a question about breakers? Or perhaps you need advice on the ranges available?\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Electrical Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E CHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us. We\u2019re happy to help!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWant to receive these articles straight to your inbox? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Subscribe\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESUBSCRIBE \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003Eto join our mailing list now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Education" }, { "title": "NEW SERIES - The Fundamentals of Circuit Breakers (part 3)", "nid": "464", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe next article in our series on \u003Cstrong\u003ECircuit Breakers\u003C/strong\u003E discusses a few common types of breakers.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMissed out on the first two articles? Follow the links below to catch up on parts one and two in the series:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers---part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart One\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- Gain an understanding of what circuit breakers are, how they work and how they compare to fuses.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES---The-Fundamentals-of-Circuit-Breakers-part-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart Two\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n-\u00A0Learn about what circuit breakers typically comprise of.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn the third article of the series, we give you an overview of miniature, molded case, residual current and air circuit breakers\u2026.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETypes of Circuit Breakers\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Miniature Circuit Breakers \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) serves the purpose of both switching and preventing damage to an electrical circuit when excess current flows. It is an electromechanical device that protects the electrical wires and load from overcurrent to prevent damage or fire.\u00A0 MCB\u2019s are used in domestic applications because of the overload and short circuit protection they offer, as well as the ease with which they can be reset.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Molded Case Circuit Breakers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) is used when the load current exceeds the limit of a miniature circuit breaker. MCCBs are used in industrial applications because of their wide current ratings and higher breaking capacity. They offer adequate protection when an application requires discrimination, adjustable overload settings or earth fault protection.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe Table below highlights a few differences between MCBs and MCCBs:\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ctable border=\u00223\u0022 cellpadding=\u00221\u0022 cellspacing=\u00221\u0022 style=\u0022width: 650px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cthead\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Cth scope=\u0022col\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003EMCB\u003C/th\u003E\n\u003Cth scope=\u0022col\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003EMCCB\u003C/th\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003C/thead\u003E\n\u003Ctbody\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003EMaximum rated current of 125A\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003EMaximum rated current of 1600A\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003EMaximum interrupted current rating is less than 10kA\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003EMaximum interrupted current rating is in the range of 10 \u2013 85 kA\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003EUsed in applications that require a low breaking capacity\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003EUsed in applications that require either low or high breaking capacity\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003ETrip characteristics are not adjustable\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003ETrip characteristics can be fixed or adjustable depending on the application\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 315px;\u0022\u003EProvides protection for electrical wiring and equipment\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 style=\u0022width: 322px;\u0022\u003EProvides protection for electrical wiring and equipment\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003C/tbody\u003E\n\u003C/table\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Residual Current Circuit Breakers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is a device that disconnects the electrical circuit in the event of leakage current flowing through a living being, or when the current is not balanced between the phase and neutral conductor. It detects and trips the circuit in the event of leakage current, preventing shock caused by direct contact. The device is used in series with an MCB and is a necessity for shock protection.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Air Circuit Breakers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAn Air Circuit Breaker (ACB) is electronic equipment that is used for the protection of electric circuits from short circuits or overcurrent. ACBs are used in the switching mechanism and protection of the electrical system. Standard ACB ratings typically range from 400A to 1600A. Some of the higher class ACBs typically have a maximum current rating of 5000A.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Electrical Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Air Circuit Breaker\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002238e08447-0eb2-4fcb-bf09-51266ab9d1ef\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Large-Air-Circuit-Breaker-Principle%20-%20blog.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFunctions: \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIt opens or closes a circuit automatically or manually.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOpens circuits automatically when a fault takes place such as over current, short circuit, earth fault, over frequency, reverse power, etc.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIt dampens the arcing in case of overloading\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETypes:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPlain Break type ACB\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMagnetic Blowout Type ACB\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAir Chute ACB\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAir Blast Circuit Breaker\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ELearn more about Circuit breaker technology\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhat to learn more?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETake an in depth look at circuit breakers with a special emphasis on the Eaton\u0027s most technologically advanced circuit breaker, the Power Defence molded case circuit breaker...\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBPV2r7VTgw\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to watch the video now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Education" } ]