It has been a while since there has been an ASTM F18 report, so let’s start off with a review of some background information. The ASTM F18 Committee on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers was formed in 1974. It currently has jurisdiction over 38 standards and plays a critical role in the protection of the electrical worker. The F18 committee …
IEC 61850 Defines Communication Requirements
Communication plays a critical role in the operation of modern substations. As the industry was evolving into the digital age, there was a need for a unified communication architecture, and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) began to develop international standards for communication. In this quiz, we will explore the international communication standard IEC 61850. 1. What is the international standard …
Communications and Fiber Optics
Communication is vital in everything we do, and it isn’t just the funny phrases at the end of the telephone game as kids. As NETA Certified Technicians, we must be familiar with different communication systems since they are essential to proper power system operation. In this quiz, we discuss some communication systems and associated components. Virginia Balitski, CET, Manager – …
Rotating Machinery
Rotating machinery is an essential component of most power systems, from compressors in petrochemical plants to turbines in hydroelectric generation plants. NETA Certified Technicians must be familiar with the maintenance and possible failure means of various rotating machines. Virginia Balitski, CET, Manager – Training and Development, has worked for Magna IV Engineering since 2006. Virginia started her career as …
Off-Line Partial Discharge Cable Testing
NETA Certified Technicians must continually adjust to advancing technology and diagnostic testing techniques. Over the years, cable testing has advanced to where multiple testing methods can be selected. After careful consideration of system requirements, a site owner may choose off-line partial discharge (PD) testing as one of their cable testing methods. This quiz looks at some details on partial discharge …
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 …
Safety
Safety is an important consideration for any workplace and for NETA Certified Technicians. ANSI/NETA MTS-2019 recognizes that an overwhelming majority of the tests and inspections carried out by NETA Certified Technicians are potentially hazardous. It is essential that workers are aware of the hazards involved with the tasks they perform. QUESTIONS What United States regulatory agency exists regarding workplace …
Arc-Flash Reduction Techniques
As NETA Certified Technicians, many of the tests and inspections performed may expose workers to electrical hazards. ANSI/NETA MTS, Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment & Systems specifies that individuals performing these tests shall be qualified and capable of conducting the tests in a safe manner and with complete knowledge of the hazards involved. One of these …
The Life and History of James (Jim) R. White
Jim White’s prolific career in the electrical field expanded across many decades with a particular focus on training, education, and safety. Jim was Vice President of Training Services at Shermco Industries, a NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional, a NETA Level 4 Senior Technician, and a dedicated and well-respected professional. Jim’s contribution to the electrical industry was immeasurable, and he …