Building Electrical System

Lecture 3 -
Branch Circuit & Wiring
Accessories
ENGINEERING UTILITIES 1
Electrical Circuit
It refers to the complete path traversed by an electric current. In short, electric circuit is the
entire house wiring installation.
As defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC): ‘the circuit conductors between the final
over current protective device and the outlets.’ Meaning, the branch circuit is only the wiring
installed between the circuit over current protective device; such as the Fuse or circuit
breaker and the outlets.
Branch Circuit comprises the ff:
◦ The source of Voltage
◦ The wiring and;
◦ The load.
Branch Circuit
The branch circuit is classified into the following:

1. General purpose branch circuit – it supplies outlets for lighting and appliances, including
receptacles.

2. Appliance branch circuit – it supplies outlets intended for feeding appliances. Fixed
lighting however, it is not supplied.

3. Individual branch circuit – it is designed to supply a single specific item such as aircon,
fridge, washing machine etc.
Protection of the Branch Circuit
As a rule, branch circuit should be protected from over current. Hence, an overall current
protective device shall be installed in all branch circuitries.

It functions as to opening the circuitry (disconnect the line) when the current rating capacity
of the equipment being protected exceeded. The circuit protective device represents the
source of voltage. It is always connected at its hot line end to the voltage source and its load
end to the circuit wiring. Apparently, it becomes the source of voltage.

The panel board, wherein the over current protective device is located, the busbars become
the source of voltage as we look upstream from the over current devices.
Protection of the Branch Circuit

Causes of Over Current

Over current is any current more than the rated capacity of the equipment or the rated ampacity
of the conductor.
There are two principal causes of over current
1. Overload in the equipment or conductors
2. Short circuit or ground fault

Both are result of excessive current flow. The primary function of the over-current protective
device is to protect the branch circuit and the load device against excessive current supply.
However, regardless whether the excess current is being caused by an equipment problem of
overloading or by a circuit problem such as un-intentional ground fault, the device will
interrupt the line and disconnect the supply.
Protection of the Branch Circuit
The over current device automatically opens the line to release the excessive current. The
action of the over current protective device is called ‘clearing’, because it clears the circuit of
the fault or over current load.

It will protect the following

◦ The wiring
◦ The transformer
◦ The lights
◦ Appliances and other Equipment
Types of Current Protective Devices

Fuse
It is defined as ‘an over all current protective device with a circuit opening fusible element
which opens (breaks and cuts the line) when there is an over current in the circuitry. It is a
one-time protective device, the simplest and most common type of circuit protective device
that is used in most house wiring installation.

Generally, fuse consist of a fusible link or wire that easily melt at low temperature classified
into two (2) types:

1. Cartridge type – which is enclosed in an insulating fiber tube and;

2. Plug Fuse type – it is enclosed in a porcelain cap.

Protection of the Branch Circuit

Circuit Breaker

It is also an overprotective device designed to function as a switch. Basically, a circuit

breaker is equipped with an automatic tripping device to protect the branch circuit from
overload and ground fault. It can be manually tripped, so that, in many cases, it also acts as
circuit switch.

Trip or Tripping refers to the cutting-off or disconnection of the current supply.

Advantages of Fuse over Breaker
Despite the advantages of circuit breaker over fuse, the later material has also some advantages over
the other, enumerated below;
◦ One major advantages of fuse over breaker is its reliability and stability. Fuse can stay on its position
for years and act when called on to act as designed.
◦ The cost od the fuse is very much lower compared to that of a breaker.
◦ Circuit breakers has several moving parts which requires maintenance and periodic testing to be in
good condition at all time.

Fuse is usually used to equipment and appliances, such as cars and power tools, respectively.
Advantages of Breaker over Fuse
◦ The breaker acts as a switch aside from its being an over current protective device.
◦ Unlike the fuse that must be discarded after it was busted, the circuit breaker trips off automatically
and after correcting the fault, it is again readily available for switch on.
◦ It can be multiple pole installed with 1, 2 or 3 poles which will simultaneously protect and switch one
of the three lines. The fuse on the other hand, is a single pole, installed on a single wire that could
only protect a single electric line.
◦ The circuit breaker position is easier to detect. It could be closed, tripped or open right at the handle.
On the contrary, the busted fuse could not be detected easily because the melted fusible element is
inside the fuse casing.
◦ Breaker can be manually tripped so that in many cases, it also acts as the circuit switch.
Usage of Breaker & Fuse
Fuse and breaker, however, are very rarely mixed in a panel, except that a circuit breaker
panel sometimes has a main switch and a fuse for overall protection of the panel. Basically,
panel consists of a set of electrical busbars where the circuit protective devices are
connected.
Panel Board
It is defined by NEC as ‘A single panel or group panel limits designed for assembly in the form of a
single panel.’

This includes buses and automatic protective device with or without switches for the control of the
lights, power circuits. It is designed for mounting in a cabinet or cutout box installed in or against the
wall or partition accessible in the front.

Panel board is popularly known as panel or electrical panel. Simply a box wherein the protective
devices are group from which they are fed.
If the devices are of fuses, it is called fuse panel, on the other hand, if the devices are of breakers, it is
called breaker panel.
Principles Applied in Installing Panel Board
1. The approach shall be accessible and more convenient.
2. The panel is centrally located to shorten the home wiring runs.
3. It must be installed near the loas center, as in most cases panel are mounted near the kitchen
and the laundry where heavy duty loads are expected.
4. To limit voltage drop on the branch circuit, the panel shall be located in such a manner that no
circuit (wiring connection) exceeds 35 meters long.
5. In the event that a circuit is more than 35 meters long cannot be avoided, No.10 AWG wire shall
be use for runs up to 50 meters long and No.8 AWG for longer circuits.
Designing the Branch Circuit
The design varies according to the number of designers. However, good circuitry design is
based on the following consideration:

1. Flexibility of the circuit

2. Reliability and Efficiency of service
3. Safety of the circuitry
4. Economy as to cost
5. Energy consideration
6. Space allocation
Designing the Branch Circuit
1. Flexibility of the Circuit

It means that the installation can accommodate all probable pattern arrangements and
location of the loads for expansion or future development.

2. Reliability & Efficiency

It should have a continuous service and supply of power that are all dependent on the wiring
system. Reliability of electric power in a facility is determined by two factors;
◦ The Utility Service
◦ Building Electric System
Designing the Branch Circuit
3. Safety
it means that independent service can be used in lieu of emergency equipment as backup
for normal services. For the reliability of the circuitry, the following principles should be
considered.

◦ To provide double emergency power equipment at selected weak points in the system.
◦ That the electrical service and the building distribution system must act together so that the power
can reach the desired point of service.
◦ Critical loads within the facility must be pinpointed to determine the best way to serve them by
providing a reliable power either from the outside source or by standby power package for them.
◦ The system design must readily detect any equipment failure and to be corrected automatically.
Designing the Branch Circuit
4. Economy

It refers to the initial cost as well as the operating cost. These two cost-factors stand in
inverse relationship to one another.

Over design is as bad as the under design. It is wasteful both on initial

construction/installation and operating cost.

Effect of Acquiring Low-Cost Equipment

◦ High Energy Cost
◦ Higher Maintenance Cost
◦ Shorter Life
Designing the Branch Circuit
5. Energy Consideration

It is a complex subject; this matter consider the following factors:

1. Energy Laws and Codes

2. Budget

3. Energy Conservation Technique

4. Energy Control
Designing the Branch Circuit
6. Space Allocation

This matter must consider the following:

1. Easy maintenance’

2. Ventilation

3. Expandability

4. Centrality

5. Limitation of access
 Electrical Wiring Components
Introduction

Electricity requires an electric path to flow and there are many conducting materials used for this purpose.
There are many semi conducting materials which are used to reduce the voltage and also drop the current
flow. There are non-conducting materials which are used as insulation during working on live-lines. In this unit
we will study how the household or industrial wiring is done and what materials are essential for household or
industrial wiring. We will also study the different types of wiring and how they is done.

Wiring materials
Electrical wire is made of materials like copper, aluminum and silver. As silver is expensive, mostly copper and
aluminum are used in wiring. Materials are classified into three types according to their properties:
◦ Conducting materials
◦ Insulating materials
◦ Semiconductor materials
Electrical Conductors & Insulators
Electric conductors are substances or materials used to convey or allow the flow of electric current

Insulators on the other hand, are substances/materials that resist the flow of electric current.

Good Electric Conductors Kinds of Insulators

Silver, Copper, Aluminum Rubber, Porcelain
Nickel, Brass, Zinc Varnish, Slate, Glass
Platinum, Iron, Lead Mica, Latex, Asbestos
Tin, Paper, Oil, Wax
Thermoplastics,
Electrical Conductors
Electrical conductors are made in numerous types designated by letters according to the kind
of insulation used. The conductor insulator serves as physical shield of the wire against heat,
water and other elements of nature. Insulation is rated by voltage from 300 to 15 000 volts.
If the insulation used is above its specified rating, the risk of breakdown is high which might
cause short circuit and arching that may result to fire.

Ordinary conductors wire for building is normally rated at 300 volts or 600 volts.
Electrical Wires & Cables
Wires are those electrical conductors 8 𝑚𝑚2 (American Wire Gauge, AWG No. 8) and smaller in sizes. Cables
on the other hand, are those which are larger than the wires. Wire and cables are either stranded or solid wire.

Solid and stranded wires see frequent use in electrical equipment, such as cable assemblies and wire
harnesses. Solid wires consist of a solid core, whereas stranded wire consists of several thinner wires twisted
into a bundle. Each has distinct advantages, with the right choice for an application depending on the specific
project details. Some of the factors that may influence the choice between stranded vs. solid wire include:
◦ Amperage load
◦ Use case
◦ Costs
◦ Metal type
◦ Wire gauge
Electrical Wires and Cables

What is Stranded Wire?

These thin, bundled wires are compressed and insulated
with non-conductive materials. Stranded wire is more
flexible, making it ideal for connecting electronic
components in cramped spaces or for twisting and
bending to fit intricate geometries. Stranded wire is more
flexible and malleable than solid wire, and it won’t split or
sever. It is often used for indoor applications such as
electronic devices, circuit boards, and speaker wires.
Electrical Wires and Cables

What is Solid Wire?

Solid metal core wire is a much heavier, thicker product
than stranded wire. It is ideal for outdoor use where more
durability and higher currents are required. This rugged,
low-cost wire is resistant to weather, extreme
environmental conditions, and frequent movement. It is
often used for carrying high currents throughout building
infrastructure, vehicle controls, and various outdoor
applications.
Electrical Wire & Cable

Stranded vs. Solid Wires: The Key Differences

Comparing stranded vs. solid wire involves exploring the advantages and
disadvantages of the two very different types of wire. A comparison narrows
down the choices based on how the specific wire characteristics relate to their
expected use and the project requirements. You must first determine your
application’s requirements for weather resistance, flexibility, and resistance to
splitting or severing. Then, choose the wire that most closely meets those
needs.
Some key differences of stranded vs. solid copper wire include:
◦ Stranded vs. solid wire current capacity.
◦ Routing
◦ Flexibility
◦ Cost
◦ Ease of manufacturing
◦ Distance
◦ Superiority
Electrical Wire & Cable

Stranded vs. Solid Wires: The Key Differences

•Stranded vs. solid wire current capacity. Solid wire is thicker, which means less surface area
for dissipation. The thinner wires in stranded wire contain air gaps and greater surface area
with the individual strands, translating to more dissipation. When choosing between solid or
stranded wire for house wiring, the solid wire offers higher current capacity.

•Routing. Stranded wires offer superior bendability and flexibility, making them easier to route
around obstacles than solid wires.

•Flexibility. Stranded wires are more flexible and can sustain more vibration and flexing
without breaking. Solid wires may require more frequent replacement than stranded wires in
applications with significant movement or vibrations.
Electrical Wire & Cable

Stranded vs. Solid Wires: The Key Differences

•Cost. The production costs of solid wire are much lower than stranded wire, which makes
solid wire the more affordable choice.

•Ease of manufacturing. The single-core nature of solid wire makes it much simpler to
manufacture. Stranded wires require more complex manufacturing processes to twist the
thinner wires together.

•Distance. For longer runs, solid wires are the better choice because they feature less current
dissipation. Stranded wire will perform well over shorter distances.

•Superiority. When it comes down to stranded vs. solid wire, there is no clear choice. Each
option offers distinct advantages in particular situations.
Electrical Wiring
Electrical wirings are like veins that transport electricity to your appliances, devices and throughout your
home. Learning each type of these wirings is a good point to start for greater safety at home. Let us
help you understand the common types of electrical wirings for residential use.
For household wiring, the material is either copper or aluminum (or copper-sheathed aluminium),
although aluminum is not really used anymore. It can be stranded wire or solid metal conductor and, in
most cases, it is insulated, using a non conductive plastic coating.
On the other hand, a cable is the combination of two or more wires, assembled using a single jacket. In
modern homes, the NM (nonmetallic) cable is the most common type. This consists of two or more
individual wires wrapped inside a protective plastic sheathing and contains:
◦ One or more “hot” (current-carrying) wires
◦ A neutral wire
◦ A ground wire
Electrical Wiring
1. NM Wire (Non-Metallic Sheathed Wire)
The most common type of home electrical wiring is the
NM cable, also known as the Romex cable, after the most
popular electrical wiring brand name. The NM cables
contain three or more individual conductors, wrapped
together in a sheathing, which is a flexible plastic jacket.
This type of cable is generally used for dry, interior home
wiring and this includes appliances, fixtures, switches, and
outlets. Today, the NM cables are color-coded, meaning
that the outer jacket of the cable comes in different colors
to indicate the wire gauge.
Electrical Wiring
H E R E A R E T H E M O ST C O M M O N N M C A B L E S YO U M O ST L I K E LY F I N D I N M O D E R N H O M E S :
Electrical Wiring
2. ARMORED CABLE

When it comes to house electrical wiring, local ordinances are more strict than national codes. That is
why you might find that in some areas NM cables are not permitted for use and in these locations,
armored or AC cables are used instead.

AC wiring, also known as BX, goes back to the early 1900s and is designed with flexible metallic
sheathing, which offers extra protection for the conductors inside. In commercial buildings or
residential constructions with more than three stories, AC cannot be used.
Electrical Wiring
3. UNDERGROUND FEEDER CABLE

UF (underground feeder) is an NM cable which is specifically designed for wet locations and direct
ground burial. When running wires underground or to outdoor projects, you need to use the UF
cable. Another option electricians choose is using PVC conduit underground and pulling wires
through.

This type of cable is generally used for supplying outdoor fixtures and it contains insulated hot and
neutral wire, plus a bare ground wire. Unlike the NM cable, the UF type has a solid plastic sheathing
around each wire and has a gray outer sheathing. Additionally, this type of cable can be used for
major circuit wiring.
 Electrical
Wiring
4. LOW-VOLTAGE WIRE

Low-voltage wiring is used for circuits that use

less than 50 volts. This type of wiring is the right
choice for items that do not require a lot of
electricity, like doorbells, thermostats, sprinkler
systems or landscape lighting.

Low-voltage wiring varies from 12 to 22-gauge

and it’s either insulated or comes covered in
cable sheathing. Even though shocks don’t
usually occur with low-voltage wires, it is still a
good idea to turn off your devices before
starting to work with them.
 Electrical Wiring
5. THHN/THWN WIRE

Two of the most common types of insulated wires are the THHN
and the THWN. Unlike the NM cable, these are single conductors,
each having its color-coded insulation. And they are protected by a
plastic or tubular metal conduit.

•Hot wires are black, orange or red;

•Neutral wires are white or brown;

•Ground wires are green or yellow-green.

 Electrical Wiring
5. THHN/THWN WIRE
As far as insulation is concerned, the letters indicate their properties:
•T stands for Thermoplastic;
•H stands for Heat-resistant and HH means highly heat-resistant;
•W stands for Rated for wet locations;
•N means Nylon-coated, for added protection.
These types of wires should be used in areas like basements or garages
and inside the house, only for short exposed runs, like wiring connections
for water heaters or garbage disposals. Because these are circuit wires,
they should never be handled with the circuits turned on.
 Electrical Wiring
6. PHONE AND DATA WIRE

Phones and internet wiring both use low-voltage wires. Although the
most common type of cable for this is Cat (Category) 5, your telephone
and data cable may have anywhere from four to eight wires. The
category 5 cable contains eight wires, wrapped together in four pairs
and it’s the most efficient type for phone and data transmission. Also,
the cat 5 cable brings greater capacity and quality than the standard
phone wire.
Even though data wiring doesn’t carry a high amount of voltage, it is
still dangerous to have data wiring encountering household wiring. So,
treat it carefully and avoid touching bare wires.
Electrical Wiring
7. OTHER CABLE
▪ Coaxial Cable

Commonly known as heliax, this wiring is used for connecting video devices and
carrying television. Coaxial cables consist of tubular insulating and conducting
metallic layers enclosed by a metal sheath or mesh. It also features a thin
plastic layer or cover for extra protection.

▪ Ribbon Cables

Composed of several conducting wires, this type of household wire is applicable

for computers and other electrical peripherals. The wires follow a parallel line
positioned on a flat plane which looks exactly like flat ribbons. They are flexible
but are only applicable to low voltage equipment.
 Electrical Wiring
7. OTHER CABLE

▪ Metal Clad (MC) Cable

A metal clad cable is “a cable in which the conductors are enclosed in a corrugated
metal sheath or interlocking metal tape, insulated, and the entire cable is put
together at the factory.” This type of cable is especially used for service feeder,
branch circuit and for indoor or outdoor work.
▪ Mineral Insulated (MI) Cables
(MI) is a specialist type of cable that is designed to be used in high temperatures
and severe environmental conditions because it’s not flammable, so it won’t be
damaged by heat. MI cable is generally made up of copper conductor wires inside a
sheath that can be made of copper, stainless steel, or Inconel, (other materials are
available on request). It is insulated by packed minerals specifically magnesium
oxide (MgO). Magnesium oxide is the perfect electrical insulation material because
it is resistant to oxidation, ionizing radiation, and it’s stable at high temperatures
both, physically and chemically.
Electrical Accessories
W I R I N G AC C E S S O R I E S A R E U S E D F O R C O N N E C T I N G
APPLIANCES.
Electrical Accessories

1. Switch
A switch is used to make or break an electrical circuit. It is used to switch ‘on’ or ‘off’ the
supply of electricity to an appliance. There are various switches such as:
▪ surface switch
▪ flush switch
▪ ceiling switch
▪ pull switch
▪ push button switch
▪ bed switch
Electrical Accessories

Various Switches
▪ Surface switch: It is mounted on wooden boards fixed on the surface of a wall. It is of
three types
o One-way switch - It is used to control single circuits and lamp
o Two-way switch - It is used to divert the flow of current to either of two
directions. The two-way switch can also be used to control one lamp from two
different places as in the case of staircase wiring
o Intermediate switch - It is used to control a lamp from more than two locations.
 Electrical Accessories

Various Switches

Flush switch: It used for decorative purpose (Fig. 3.8).

Bed switch: As the name indicates, it is used to switch

‘on’ the light from any place, other than switch board or
from near the bed. This switch is connected through a
flexible wire (Fig. 3.9).
Electrical Accessories

2. Holder
A holder is of two types.
1. Pendant holder (Fig. 3.10)
2. Batten holder (Fig. 3.11)
Electrical Accessories

3. Ceiling Rose
It is used to provide a tapping to the pendant
lamp– holder through the flexible wire or a
connection to a fluorescent tube (Fig. 3.12).
Electrical
Accessories

4. Socket Outlet/Plug

The socket outlet has an

insulated base with the
molded or socket base
having three terminal
sleeves .
Electrical
Accessories

5. Main Switch

To control the electrical

circuit a main switch is
used. Through the main
switch, the power in a
building is controlled
completely.
- End lecture 3