Intelligent Power Today Magazine

News and Trends

Introducing Intelligent Power Today

Welcome to Intelligent Power Today Magazine, our publication that explores and explains the who, what, where, when, why and how of intelligent electrical devices, a collection of complex mechanical devices and sophisticated control systems used in industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities—also known as intelligent buildings.

According to the Institute for Building Efficiency, intelligent buildings use smart technologies to improve system functionality, control operating costs, and to keep building occupants safe, secure, comfortable, and, of...

Buyer's Guide

News & Trends

Counterfeiting Kills

Each year, the counterfeiting of well-known brands and products continues to rise, creating an even more threatening problem. Such well-known counterfeited brands, including consumer safety and critical electrical products, are estimated to be five to seven percent of world trade. The International...

Featured

Advanced protection against electromagnetic exposures and electric arc

HAZARDS AROUND While working live in the energized grid, presence of voltage around the workers requires special attention. However, live-line (live working) techniques are widely applied for decades, several accidents in the past prove that the level of safety must be improved to minimize...

State of Industry

Illuminating Decisions: EPRI Lights the Way for Modern Lighting Adoption

Facility managers and operators understand the critical role lighting plays in their daily operations. Accounting for roughly 30% of a commercial building's energy load, lighting significantly impacts energy consumption and associated maintenance costs. However, focusing solely on the...

Electrical Protection

Selecting the Right Protective Device: Understanding Fuses, Circuit Breakers, and Choosing the Best Fit

Overcurrent and short circuit protection are critical components of any electrical system, safeguarding equipment and preventing catastrophic failures. Selecting the appropriate protective device, fuses or circuit breakers, requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal performance and system safety. This article explores the key differences between fuses and circuit breakers, analyzes essential factors for device selection, and provides guidance on choosing the best fit for specific applications.

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Understanding Overcurrent Protection Devices

Overcurrent protection devices are essential components in electrical systems, designed to protect circuits from excessive current flow that can cause damage or fire risks.

Fuses

Fuses are one-time use protection devices that melt when the current exceeds a predetermined level, thereby interrupting the circuit. They are known for their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and precise operation.

Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers, on the other hand, are reusable devices that trip to interrupt the circuit...

Electrical Protection Articles

Motor Protection

Compatibility Issues with Generator-Backed Power Systems

Line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems play a vital role in maintaining seamless operation during power outages. Their integration with backup generators, however, can pose challenges regarding synchronization and power quality. While both UPS systems and generators serve as...

Protecting Industrial Control Circuits

Addressing relay challenges with the modern technology BY MARK STEPHENS & ALDEN WRIGHT, Electric Power Research Institute In 2009, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) began an effort to create improved alternating current (AC) “ice cube” relays that could withstand voltage sags...

Generator Protection

Digital Protection Relays for Generators

The reliable operation of power grids hinges on the effective protection of generators. Traditional electromechanical relays have served this purpose for decades, but they have limitations in terms of functionality, flexibility, and communication capabilities. Digital protection relays, powered by...

Transformer Protection

Protection for Smart Grid Integration

The concept of smart grids is revolutionizing the power delivery landscape. Characterized by two-way power flow, distributed generation, and increased reliance on automation, smart grids present unique challenges for traditional transformer protection schemes.These developments necessitate a...