An industrial electrical system is the network of equipment, wiring, and control devices that deliver, distribute, and manage electrical energy inside a factory, plant, or other industrial facility. It includes power sources (like generators and the utility supply), transformers, switchgear, motors, protective devices (fuses and circuit breakers), distribution panels, and the control systems that make machines run reliably. The primary purpose of these systems is to convert utility power into the right voltages and controlled signals needed by production equipment while keeping people and assets safe.
Terminology in electrical engineering — words such as voltage, current, power factor, earthing, and relay — are more than technical labels: they are shorthand for precise physical behaviors and safety rules. Learning the correct meanings helps technicians read schematics, size cables and protective devices, troubleshoot faults, and communicate clearly with colleagues. For example, understanding the difference between single-phase and three-phase supplies determines how motors are selected and connected; knowing what “short-circuit current” means guides how protective devices are specified.
In practice, a clear grasp of terms speeds up maintenance, reduces downtime, and prevents accidents. Professionals rely on a common vocabulary to design safe systems, perform testing, and comply with standards. For anyone working in or learning about industrial electrical systems, a concise glossary paired with practical examples and diagrams makes the concepts easier to apply on the shop floor — from reading a wiring diagram to setting a motor overload correctly.
Voltage is the electrical potential difference between two points. It acts like pressure pushing current through a circuit. Use: Provides the energy needed to run machines.
Current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes (A). Use: Represents the actual movement of electricity in a system.
Resistance is the opposition to current flow, measured in ohms (Ω). Use: Helps control current and protect devices.
Power is the rate of using or producing electrical energy, measured in watts (W). Use: Shows how much energy a machine consumes or generates.
Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power. Use: Indicates efficiency of electrical systems and helps reduce industrial energy bills.
A transformer is a device that changes AC voltage levels. Use: Steps voltage up for transmission or down for safe industrial use.
A circuit breaker is a switch that automatically disconnects power during faults. Use: Protects circuits from overload and short circuits.
A fuse is a protective device that melts when current is too high. Use: Prevents fire and damage to equipment.
A relay is an electrically operated switch. Use: Controls other circuits, used in automation and safety systems.
A contactor is a heavy-duty relay for switching large currents. Use: Widely used in motor starters and control panels.
A motor is a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion. Use: Runs pumps, fans, conveyors, and industrial machinery.
A generator converts mechanical energy into electricity. Use: Provides backup or main power supply in industries.
An alternator produces AC electricity using electromagnetic induction. Use: Common in power plants and vehicles.
A capacitor stores and releases electrical energy. Use: Improves power factor and stabilizes voltage in industries.
An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field. Use: Used in filters, chokes, and power circuits.
A PLC is a digital device for industrial automation. Use: Controls machines and processes based on programmed logic.
A VFD controls motor speed by changing supply frequency. Use: Saves energy and improves process control.
Switchgear is a combination of switches, fuses, and breakers. Use: Protects and controls industrial electrical systems.
A distribution panel distributes power into smaller circuits. Use: Supplies safe power across different factory sections.
Earthing connects electrical parts to the earth for safety. Use: Protects people and equipment from electric shock.
Overload happens when current exceeds safe limits. Use: Protection devices trip to avoid overheating and fire.
A short circuit is a direct low-resistance path for current. Use: Causes high current and requires breakers/fuses for safety.
A CT steps down high current to a smaller measurable value. Use: Used with meters and protection relays.
A PT steps down high voltage to a safe measurable level. Use: Used in power system metering.
An MCC is a cabinet that houses motor starters and control gear. Use: Centralized motor control in industries.
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Use: Monitors and controls industrial processes remotely.
A UPS provides emergency power during outages. Use: Protects sensitive equipment from downtime and data loss.
An inverter converts DC power into AC power. Use: Used in solar systems, UPS, and backup supplies.
A rectifier converts AC power into DC power. Use: Powers DC machines and chargers.
Harmonics are unwanted frequency distortions in electrical supply. Use: Must be reduced to improve efficiency and avoid overheating.
A busbar is a metal bar that carries current inside switchgear or panels. Use: Distributes high current safely to multiple circuits.
An insulator is a material that does not conduct electricity. Use: Protects people and equipment from unwanted current flow.
A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow easily. Use: Wires and cables are conductors in all power systems.
A cable tray is a mechanical support system for cables. Use: Provides safe routing of wires in industries.
An electrical load is any device that consumes electricity. Use: Lights, motors, and machines are common loads in industries.
An overcurrent relay is a protection device that operates when current exceeds a preset limit. Use: Protects circuits and equipment from excessive current flow.
An ELCB is a safety device that disconnects power when leakage current flows to the earth. Use: Prevents electric shocks and fire hazards.
An RCCB is a modern version of ELCB that trips when imbalance occurs between live and neutral. Use: Protects humans from electric shock.
A surge protector safeguards equipment from voltage spikes. Use: Protects sensitive electronics from lightning and switching surges.
A lightning arrester protects equipment from lightning strikes by diverting surge currents to earth. Use: Installed on substations and tall industrial buildings.
A stepper motor is a motor that moves in discrete steps. Use: Used in robotics, CNC machines, and automation.
A servo motor is a motor with precise control of position, speed, and torque. Use: Common in robotics, packaging, and automation systems.
A soft starter reduces the voltage during motor startup to avoid high inrush current. Use: Extends motor life and reduces mechanical stress.
A thyristor is a semiconductor device used for switching and controlling power. Use: Found in VFDs, UPS, and industrial rectifiers.
A diode allows current to flow in one direction only. Use: Used in rectifiers, power supplies, and protection circuits.
A transistor is a semiconductor device used for amplification and switching. Use: Found in control circuits and electronic drives.
AC is an electric current that changes direction periodically. Use: Supplied by power companies for industrial and domestic use.
DC is an electric current that flows in one direction. Use: Used in batteries, electronics, and electroplating.
A neutral wire carries current back to the source in AC systems. Use: Completes the circuit and provides return path for electricity.
A phase wire carries live current from the supply to loads. Use: Delivers power to motors, lights, and machines.
A three-phase system uses three alternating currents, each 120° apart. Use: Provides efficient power for motors and heavy equipment.
A single-phase system uses one alternating current. Use: Common in homes and small equipment.
A load break switch is used to safely open and close circuits under load conditions. Use: Provides isolation in distribution networks.
An isolator is a mechanical switch used to disconnect a circuit when no load is flowing. Use: Ensures safety during maintenance.
A ballast controls the current in fluorescent lamps. Use: Ensures stable lighting and protects the lamp.
An electrical panel is a box containing breakers, fuses, and switches. Use: Distributes power across circuits in industries.
Frequency is the number of cycles of AC per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Use: In India it is 50 Hz, in the US it is 60 Hz.
Load shedding is the deliberate shutdown of power supply to balance demand and supply. Use: Prevents system overload and blackouts.
A kilowatt-hour is the unit of electrical energy used for billing. Use: Shows how much electricity a factory or household consumes.
A smart meter is an electronic device that records energy consumption in real time. Use: Helps industries monitor usage and reduce costs.
An ammeter is an instrument used to measure electric current in amperes. Use: Installed in panels to monitor load current.
A voltmeter measures the voltage between two points in a circuit. Use: Helps check supply levels and troubleshoot faults.
A wattmeter measures real power in a circuit. Use: Used in industries to monitor machine power consumption.
An energy meter measures the total energy consumed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Use: Used by electricity boards for billing and monitoring.
Synchronization is the process of matching voltage, frequency, and phase of two power sources. Use: Required before connecting a generator to a power grid.
A power grid is the interconnected network of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems. Use: Delivers electricity from plants to consumers.
A transmission line carries high-voltage power from generating stations to substations. Use: Enables long-distance power transfer.
A distribution line carries medium- or low-voltage electricity from substations to consumers. Use: Supplies electricity to industries and households.
A load center is a small distribution panel for local circuits. Use: Common in buildings and small factories.
An arc is a visible plasma discharge between two conductors. Use: Dangerous but used intentionally in welding applications.
Arc flash is a sudden release of electrical energy through the air caused by a fault. Use: Requires PPE and safety measures to protect workers.
Arc suppression is the method of reducing or eliminating arcs when opening a circuit. Use: Protects contacts in relays and switches.
Dielectric strength is the maximum voltage a material can withstand without breaking down. Use: Important for insulation design.
A tap changer adjusts the output voltage of a transformer. Use: Maintains stable supply voltage in industries.
Load balancing is the even distribution of electrical load across phases. Use: Prevents overheating and improves efficiency.
Demand factor is the ratio of maximum demand to total connected load. Use: Helps design electrical systems economically.
Diversity factor is the ratio of sum of individual maximum demands to the maximum demand of the system. Use: Reduces system capacity requirements.
Load factor is the ratio of average load to maximum load in a period. Use: Indicates efficiency of energy use in industries.
Fault current is the excessive current that flows during a short circuit. Use: Determines breaker and fuse ratings.
Insulation resistance is the resistance offered by insulating material to current leakage. Use: Tested using a megger to ensure safety of equipment.
A busbar is a metallic strip or bar that conducts electricity within switchgear, panels, or substations. Use: Distributes power to multiple outgoing circuits.
A bus coupler is a circuit breaker that connects two busbars. Use: Provides flexibility in power distribution and maintenance.
An RMU is a type of medium-voltage switchgear used for distribution. Use: Ensures continuous supply even during faults.
An isolator is a switch used to completely disconnect a circuit when no current is flowing. Use: Provides safety during maintenance.
A circuit breaker is a protective device that automatically interrupts current during faults. Use: Prevents fire, shock, and equipment damage.
Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB) is used for medium current ratings. Use: Protects circuits in industries from overload and short circuits.
Air Circuit Breaker (ACB) is a breaker that operates in air as an arc extinguishing medium. Use: Used in low-voltage power distribution panels.
Oil Circuit Breaker (OCB) uses oil for arc extinction. Use: Common in high-voltage substations, though now replaced by modern types.
An SF6 breaker uses sulfur hexafluoride gas for arc extinguishing. Use: Reliable for high-voltage applications.
A relay is an electrically operated switch that controls circuits using a small signal. Use: Provides protection, automation, and control.
A protection relay detects abnormal conditions like overload or fault. Use: Trips circuit breakers to isolate faulty equipment.
A thermal overload relay protects motors from overheating. Use: Trips the motor when excessive current flows for too long.
An ELCB trips when leakage current flows to earth. Use: Protects people from electric shock hazards.
An RCCB disconnects power when it detects current imbalance between phase and neutral. Use: Provides personal safety from shock.
An RCBO combines MCB and RCCB functions. Use: Protects against both overload/short circuit and earth leakage.
A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) controls motor speed by varying frequency and voltage. Use: Saves energy and improves motor efficiency.
A soft starter reduces motor starting current using voltage control. Use: Prevents mechanical and electrical stress during motor startup.
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is an industrial computer for automation. Use: Controls machines, processes, and safety systems.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) is a system for remote monitoring and control. Use: Used in factories, power plants, and utilities.
A Distributed Control System (DCS) is a control system with multiple controllers distributed across a plant. Use: Provides reliable process control in industries like oil, gas, and power.
An alternator is a machine that generates AC electricity from mechanical energy. Use: Widely used in power plants and backup generators.
A generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy (AC or DC). Use: Supplies power during outages and in remote sites.
A motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Use: Powers machines, pumps, fans, and conveyors in industries.
A synchronous motor runs at constant speed equal to supply frequency. Use: Used where precise constant speed is required.
An induction motor is the most common AC motor where current is induced in the rotor. Use: Drives industrial machinery and fans.
A single-phase motor operates on single-phase supply. Use: Used in household appliances and small machines.
A three-phase motor runs on three-phase power supply. Use: Powers heavy industrial equipment with high efficiency.
A slip ring motor is a type of induction motor with external resistances connected to the rotor. Use: Provides high starting torque for cranes and elevators.
A stepper motor rotates in discrete steps. Use: Used in robotics, CNC machines, and automation systems.
A servo motor provides precise position control. Use: Used in robotics, process control, and instrumentation.
Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power. Use: Indicates efficiency of electrical systems.
Power factor correction improves low power factor by adding capacitors or synchronous condensers. Use: Reduces losses and electricity bills.
A capacitor bank is a group of capacitors connected together. Use: Used for power factor correction in industries.
Harmonics are voltage or current distortions at multiples of the fundamental frequency. Use: Must be controlled to avoid overheating and malfunction.
A harmonic filter reduces unwanted harmonics from the system. Use: Protects equipment and improves power quality.
Earthing is the connection of electrical equipment to the ground. Use: Provides safety from shocks and stabilizes system voltage.
Neutral is the return path of current in an electrical system. Use: Completes the circuit and ensures balanced operation.
A lightning arrester protects equipment from high-voltage surges due to lightning. Use: Installed in substations and transmission lines.
A surge protector protects electrical devices from voltage spikes. Use: Commonly used in homes, offices, and industries.
An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) provides backup power instantly during supply failure. Use: Protects computers, servers, and sensitive equipment.
An inverter converts DC power into AC power. Use: Used in solar systems, UPS, and variable speed drives.
A rectifier converts AC power into DC power. Use: Used in battery charging, DC drives, and electronic devices.
A battery stores electrical energy in chemical form. Use: Provides backup power and runs portable devices.
A battery bank is a group of batteries connected together for higher voltage or capacity. Use: Common in UPS, solar, and telecom systems.
A substation is a part of the power system where voltage is transformed and distributed. Use: Ensures reliable electricity supply to industries and cities.
A switchyard is an open-air arrangement of electrical equipment at high voltage. Use: Connects power stations and transmission lines.
Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) uses SF6 gas for insulation. Use: Saves space and is used in urban or high-density areas.
Air Insulated Substation (AIS) uses air as insulating medium. Use: Common and cost-effective for large open areas.
A transformer substation steps up or steps down voltage for transmission or distribution. Use: Links generation with distribution networks.
Load shedding is the intentional shutdown of power in some areas to balance demand and supply. Use: Prevents grid collapse during peak demand.
A blackout is a complete loss of power in a large area. Use: Can occur due to faults, storms, or grid failures.
A brownout is a partial voltage drop in the supply. Use: Causes lights to dim and motors to underperform.
Overvoltage is when the supply voltage exceeds its normal value. Use: Dangerous for sensitive equipment, requires surge protection.
Undervoltage is when the supply voltage drops below normal. Use: Causes motors to overheat and malfunction.
Frequency is the number of cycles per second of AC power, measured in Hertz (Hz). Use: Standard is 50Hz in many countries and 60Hz in others.
A frequency converter changes the frequency of electrical supply. Use: Used for testing equipment and running imported machinery.
Reactive power is the power that oscillates between source and load but does not perform useful work. Use: Needed for magnetizing motors and transformers.
Apparent power is the product of voltage and current, measured in kVA. Use: Determines transformer and generator ratings.
Real power is the actual usable power in a circuit, measured in kW. Use: Runs machines, lights, and equipment.
Power quality refers to maintaining voltage, frequency, and waveform within safe limits. Use: Ensures smooth operation of sensitive equipment.
High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) is a method of transmitting electricity over long distances using DC. Use: Reduces transmission losses across continents and underwater cables.
High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) is the standard method of power transmission. Use: Easier to transform voltage levels for distribution.
A smart grid is an advanced electrical grid that uses digital communication and automation. Use: Improves efficiency, reliability, and renewable energy integration.
A microgrid is a small-scale power system that can operate independently or with the main grid. Use: Provides local energy security in industries and communities.
Demand response is adjusting electricity consumption during peak times. Use: Helps balance grid load and avoid blackouts.
Load forecasting is predicting future electricity demand. Use: Guides planning and operation of power systems.
SC current means Short-Circuit current, the sudden surge of current due to a fault. Use: Used for sizing breakers and protection systems.
Relay coordination is the process of setting relays to trip in correct order. Use: Ensures selective fault isolation.
A ground fault occurs when current flows directly to earth. Use: Requires ground fault protection to avoid hazards.
A line fault is an abnormal condition in transmission lines like L-G, L-L, or 3-phase faults. Use: Affects grid stability, needs protection relays.
Earthing resistance is the resistance between an earth electrode and ground. Use: Should be kept low for safety.
Step potential is the voltage difference between two feet on the ground during a fault. Use: Dangerous in substations, requires proper earthing design.
Touch potential is the voltage difference between equipment and ground. Use: Can cause shock, mitigated by earthing.
Double earthing means connecting two separate earth conductors. Use: Improves safety for heavy machines.
Plate earthing uses copper or GI plates buried in soil. Use: Common in industrial and domestic installations.
Pipe earthing uses a hollow GI pipe buried in the ground. Use: Economical method for small loads.
Strip earthing uses metal strips or conductors buried in trenches. Use: Suitable for substations and large plants.
A system that protects buildings from lightning strikes using conductors and arresters. Use: Provides safe discharge path to earth.
Protection that trips when current exceeds safe value. Use: Prevents damage from overloads or short circuits.
Differential protection compares current entering and leaving equipment. Use: Common in transformer and motor protection.
Distance protection detects line faults by measuring impedance. Use: Used in transmission lines.
Protection that trips load or generator if system frequency drops too low. Use: Prevents grid collapse.
Protection that trips generators if frequency rises abnormally. Use: Protects turbines and grid.
High-voltage switchgear controls and protects HV circuits. Use: Used in substations above 33kV.
Low-voltage switchgear operates below 1kV. Use: Found in factories and commercial buildings.
Medium-voltage switchgear works between 1kV and 33kV. Use: Common in distribution networks.
A feeder is a power line carrying electricity from a substation to distribution points. Use: Supplies multiple consumers.
A service line is the connection from distribution point to end user. Use: Provides power to homes and small industries.
An auto transformer has a single winding with taps. Use: Used for voltage regulation and motor starting.
A transformer that increases voltage. Use: Used in power plants for transmission.
A transformer that reduces voltage. Use: Used for distribution to industries and homes.
A PT reduces high voltage to measurable level. Use: Used for metering and protection.
A CT reduces high current to a small value. Use: Used in meters and relays.
A smart meter digitally measures and reports energy usage. Use: Helps consumers and utilities manage energy efficiently.
Net metering allows solar users to export surplus power to the grid. Use: Reduces electricity bills.
Grid stability means maintaining steady frequency and voltage. Use: Essential for reliable power supply.
Black start is restoring power without external supply. Use: Power plants use it after total grid collapse.
An exciter supplies DC to generator field windings. Use: Controls generator voltage.
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) controls generator output voltage. Use: Maintains stable power supply.
A turbine converts steam, gas, or water energy into mechanical energy. Use: Drives generators in power plants.
A solar inverter converts DC from panels into AC. Use: Supplies usable power from solar systems.
A wind turbine converts wind energy into electricity. Use: Provides renewable energy to the grid.
Biomass power uses organic waste as fuel for electricity generation. Use: Provides sustainable energy.
Geothermal energy comes from heat inside the earth. Use: Generates power in geothermal plants.
Tidal power uses ocean tides to produce electricity. Use: Renewable energy from sea movements.
High-voltage test checks insulation strength of equipment. Use: Ensures safety before commissioning.
A megger is an insulation resistance tester. Use: Checks health of cables and motors.
A clamp meter measures current without breaking the circuit. Use: Quick and safe current measurement.
A multimeter measures voltage, current, and resistance. Use: Essential tool for electricians and engineers.
Infrared thermography detects hot spots in electrical systems. Use: Prevents failures by early fault detection.
Partial discharge is a localized breakdown of insulation. Use: Indicates deterioration in HV equipment.
Corona effect is ionization of air around conductors at high voltage. Use: Causes losses, needs prevention in transmission lines.
Ferranti effect is voltage rise at receiving end of long transmission lines under light load. Use: Considered in HV line design.
Skin effect is current concentrating on the outer surface of conductors at high frequency. Use: Increases effective resistance of conductors.
Proximity effect is when current distribution in a conductor changes due to nearby conductors. Use: Affects cable performance in AC systems.
Eddy current is circulating current induced in conductors by changing magnetic fields. Use: Causes losses, but used in induction heating.
Hysteresis loss is energy loss in magnetic material due to repeated magnetization. Use: Major loss in transformers.
Dielectric loss is energy loss in insulating materials under alternating fields. Use: Considered in capacitor design.
Stray loss is power loss due to leakage flux and harmonics. Use: Reduces machine efficiency.
Efficiency is the ratio of output power to input power. Use: Higher efficiency reduces energy cost in industries.
PCC stands for Power Control Center. Use: It is a panel that controls and distributes electrical power to different loads in industries.
MCC stands for Motor Control Center. Use: It houses motor starters, overload protection, and feeders for motor operations.
APFC stands for Automatic Power Factor Control. Use: It is a panel that improves power factor by automatically switching capacitor banks.
ACB stands for Air Circuit Breaker. Use: It protects electrical circuits from faults by using air as an arc quenching medium.
VCB stands for Vacuum Circuit Breaker. Use: It interrupts current using vacuum and is common in medium-voltage systems.
SF6 CB stands for Sulphur Hexafluoride Circuit Breaker. Use: It uses SF6 gas as an arc extinguishing medium, suitable for high voltage.
RCCB stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker. Use: It protects people from electric shock due to leakage currents.
MCB stands for Miniature Circuit Breaker. Use: Protects small circuits from overload and short circuits.
MCCB stands for Molded Case Circuit Breaker. Use: Used for higher current ratings than MCB, provides thermal and short-circuit protection.
ELCB stands for Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker. Use: Protects from earth leakage faults and prevents shock.
LCS stands for Local Control Station. Use: A small panel used for operating motors locally.
HT Panel stands for High Tension Panel. Use: Controls and distributes power at high voltage levels (above 11kV).
LT Panel stands for Low Tension Panel. Use: Distributes electricity at low voltage (up to 1000V).
UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply. Use: Provides backup power during outages to critical loads like computers and control systems.
DG stands for Diesel Generator. Use: Provides standby electrical power during utility failures.
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Use: It monitors and controls industrial electrical systems remotely.
PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. Use: An industrial computer used for automation and control of machinery.
DOL Starter stands for Direct On-Line Starter. Use: A simple motor starter that connects the motor directly to supply.
VFD stands for Variable Frequency Drive. Use: Controls motor speed and saves energy in pumps, fans, and conveyors.
AVR stands for Automatic Voltage Regulator. Use: Maintains stable generator output voltage.
CT stands for Current Transformer. Use: It reduces high current to a measurable level for meters and protection devices.
PT stands for Potential Transformer. Use: It reduces high voltage to a lower, safe level for measurement and protection.
OCB stands for Oil Circuit Breaker. Use: Uses insulating oil as an arc quenching medium in high-voltage systems.
HRC Fuse stands for High Rupturing Capacity Fuse. Use: Protects circuits by breaking high fault currents safely.
SPD stands for Surge Protection Device. Use: Protects equipment from voltage spikes caused by lightning or switching.
GIS stands for Gas Insulated Switchgear. Use: Compact switchgear using SF6 gas, suitable for space-limited areas.
AIS stands for Air Insulated Switchgear. Use: Conventional switchgear using air as insulation, widely used in open substations.
IP stands for Ingress Protection. Use: Indicates protection level against dust and water, e.g., IP55, IP67.
THD stands for Total Harmonic Distortion. Use: Represents distortion in electrical waveforms, affects power quality.
DG Set stands for Diesel Generator Set. Use: Provides backup power during utility failures.
PCC Panel stands for Power Control Center Panel. Use: Distributes and manages electrical load in industries.
ATS stands for Automatic Transfer Switch. Use: Switches load between utility and generator automatically during power failure.
AMF stands for Automatic Mains Failure. Use: Automatically starts a generator when mains supply fails.
RMS stands for Root Mean Square. Use: It is the effective value of AC voltage or current.
KVAR stands for Kilo Volt Ampere Reactive. Use: Unit of reactive power in AC circuits.
kVA stands for Kilo Volt Ampere. Use: Unit of apparent power, used in transformer and generator ratings.
kW stands for Kilowatt. Use: Unit of real power, represents actual usable power.
LV stands for Low Voltage. Use: Electrical systems operating below 1 kV.
MV stands for Medium Voltage. Use: Electrical systems operating between 1 kV and 33 kV.
HV stands for High Voltage. Use: Electrical systems operating above 33 kV.
EHV stands for Extra High Voltage. Use: Electrical transmission systems operating above 220 kV.
UHV stands for Ultra High Voltage. Use: Transmission systems operating above 800 kV for long-distance bulk power transfer.
HVDC stands for High Voltage Direct Current. Use: Used for long-distance transmission with lower losses compared to AC.
OLTC stands for On Load Tap Changer. Use: Adjusts transformer voltage under load without interrupting supply.
AVR stands for Automatic Voltage Regulator. Use: Maintains constant generator or alternator output voltage.
DCS stands for Distributed Control System. Use: Industrial automation system for controlling complex processes.
HMI stands for Human Machine Interface. Use: Screen or software interface that allows operators to control machines.
BMS stands for Battery Management System. Use: Monitors and controls battery charging, discharging, and safety.
EMS stands for Energy Management System. Use: Monitors and optimizes energy consumption in industries.
PMS stands for Power Management System. Use: Controls power distribution and load sharing in plants.
RTU stands for Remote Terminal Unit. Use: Collects data and communicates with SCADA in substations.
IED stands for Intelligent Electronic Device. Use: Smart device for protection, control, and monitoring in substations.
FACTS stands for Flexible AC Transmission Systems. Use: Enhances power transfer capability and stability of transmission networks.
STATCOM stands for Static Synchronous Compensator. Use: Provides reactive power support for voltage regulation.
SVC stands for Static VAR Compensator. Use: Improves voltage stability by controlling reactive power.
LVRT stands for Low Voltage Ride Through. Use: Ability of wind/solar plants to stay connected during grid voltage dips.
HVRT stands for High Voltage Ride Through. Use: Ability of power plants to withstand temporary overvoltage conditions.
PCC stands for Point of Common Coupling. Use: The point where multiple users or loads connect to a common supply system.
IPB stands for Isolated Phase Bus. Use: Bus duct system where each phase conductor is enclosed separately to reduce faults.
NGR stands for Neutral Grounding Resistor. Use: Limits fault current in grounded systems for protection.
NGT stands for Neutral Grounding Transformer. Use: Provides grounding for ungrounded systems to limit fault currents.
SFRA stands for Sweep Frequency Response Analysis. Use: Diagnostic test to detect mechanical faults in transformers.
O&M stands for Operation and Maintenance. Use: Refers to running and maintaining electrical equipment efficiently.
SPD stands for Surge Protective Device. Use: Protects electronics and circuits from surges caused by lightning or switching.
XLPE stands for Cross Linked Polyethylene. Use: Insulating material used in modern power cables.
PILC stands for Paper Insulated Lead Covered. Use: Type of traditional power cable used before XLPE.
GCB stands for Generator Circuit Breaker. Use: Protects generators from internal and external faults.
SMPS stands for Switched Mode Power Supply. Use: Converts electrical power efficiently for electronic devices.
LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. Use: Energy-efficient light source used in homes and industries.
CFL stands for Compact Fluorescent Lamp. Use: Energy-saving lamp used before LED became popular.
LVDC stands for Low Voltage Direct Current. Use: DC distribution system for renewable and smart grids.
IEC stands for International Electrotechnical Commission. Use: Global standards organization for electrical equipment.
IEEE stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Use: Professional body that develops standards like IEEE 519 for harmonics.
ANSI stands for American National Standards Institute. Use: Defines electrical standards in the United States.
NEC stands for National Electrical Code. Use: Safety code for electrical installations in the U.S.
IS stands for Indian Standard. Use: Electrical standards defined by BIS in India.
BIS stands for Bureau of Indian Standards. Use: Governing body for product certification and standards in India.
EMC stands for Electromagnetic Compatibility. Use: Ability of equipment to operate without interfering with others.
EMI stands for Electromagnetic Interference. Use: Disturbance that affects performance of electrical devices.
RFI stands for Radio Frequency Interference. Use: Interference caused by radio waves affecting circuits.
AMF Panel stands for Automatic Mains Failure Panel. Use: Switches supply to DG set automatically when mains fail.
ATS Panel stands for Automatic Transfer Switch Panel. Use: Transfers load between utility and generator.
NVR stands for No Volt Release. Use: Safety feature that prevents motor from restarting after power failure.
DOL stands for Direct On Line. Use: Starter type that directly connects motor to supply.
Star-Delta is a motor starter method. Use: Reduces starting current of induction motors.
PF stands for Power Factor. Use: Ratio of real power to apparent power in a circuit.
TPM stands for Total Productive Maintenance. Use: Maintenance approach used in industries for reliability.
MCC Room stands for Motor Control Center Room. Use: Dedicated room housing motor control panels and starters.
ELC stands for Earth Leakage Circuit. Use: Detects leakage current for safety.
NOC stands for Network Operations Center. Use: Central monitoring station for power and communication systems.
VSD stands for Variable Speed Drive. Use: Controls speed of motors by varying frequency and voltage.
HRC stands for High Rupturing Capacity. Use: Fuse type that can safely interrupt high fault currents.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. Use: Electrical systems that control climate in industrial buildings.
DCDB stands for Direct Current Distribution Board. Use: Distributes DC power in solar and telecom systems.
ACDB stands for Alternating Current Distribution Board. Use: Distributes AC power to loads in electrical systems.
BMS stands for Building Management System. Use: Monitors and controls electrical, HVAC, and fire safety systems in buildings.
IPMS stands for Integrated Power Management System. Use: Manages power distribution in marine and industrial systems.
LUX is the unit of Illuminance. Use: Measures brightness of light on a surface.
KWH stands for Kilowatt Hour. Use: Unit of electrical energy consumption used in billing.
AMR stands for Automatic Meter Reading. Use: System that collects energy consumption data remotely.