America has been built on progress. Author C.S. Lewis once stated: “We all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive.” It could certainly be contended that the man who never has to turn …
Electrical Vehicle Charging in the US
The world is transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs). In order to do so, thousands of charging stations are needed. As with any emerging technology, a lot of new terminology and new processes must be learned. This article aims to simplify the world of EV charging with a deep dive into the terminology, statistics, and installation process for electric vehicle (EV) …
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming much more common for commercial and personal use. The electrical testing industry has started to see an impact regarding EVs and EV charging stations. This quiz will go over some EV charging station information that may be relevant to NETA Technicians. What battery type is primarily used for EVs? a. Lithium-ion b. Lead-acid c. Alkaline …
Battery Safety Concerns
The theme for this issue of NETA World is electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. EV vehicles are either wholly driven off battery power or, in the case of a hybrid, driven with battery and supplemented with a gas internal combustion engine. Let’s review some of the safety issues associated with batteries. One major concern when working with or around batteries …
DC Battery Systems
Electrical power systems, regardless of the industry (utility substations, industrial metal-clad switchgear, hospitals, data centers), are built with crucial auxiliary systems. These systems are dependent on each other to ensure these power users have electrical systems that are safe and reliable. The DC battery system might be one of the more critical of these systems. DC batteries provide power to …
EV Chargers: Power Grid Impact and Maintenance Requirements
Electric vehicle adoption as a viable means of transportation is a mega-trend across the globe. One driver pushing this trend is the environmental benefit of reduced air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Government incentives working to increase consumer affordability of these vehicles is another factor promoting EV adoption. Additionally, rising fuel prices and reduced overall maintenance costs for EVs contribute to …
Generator Differential Trip Analysis
A large steam turbine generator tripped on 87 phase differential protection while attempting to synch the machine to the grid. However, only the main generator protection relay operated — not the backup protection. The goal of the analysis is to determine why only one relay operated and what caused the trip to occur. EVENT ANALYSIS Figure 1 shows the system …
A Game of Inches: Understanding Dimensions in NFPA 70E
As we enter into the fall season, temperatures are starting to come down, the leaves are turning, and the game of football is cranking up. As we go through football season this year, you will undoubtedly hear many times that it’s “a game of inches.” Football being a game of inches was highlighted in a memorable way by actor Al …
Outstanding Achievement Award: Ken Bassett, Potomac Testing
In NETA circles, Ken Bassett winning his third Outstanding Achievement Award is business as usual. The Washington Commanders fan with a sense of adventure was honored again for the third time at PowerTest 2022. A family-focused individual whose company includes many of his family members, his influence in NETA is far-reaching. “Ken is and has been one of the most …
Alliance Recognition Award Honoree Known for Expertise and Training
If the name Drew Welton sounds familiar, it’s most likely because his technical presentations, including those at PowerTest, are some of the most well-regarded and well-attended. That accolade combined with his renown for knowledge of substation maintenance testing made him the obvious choice for this year’s Alliance Recognition Award. The award honors an individual who has been a dedicated supporter …