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

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...

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...

Electrical Protection

Optimizing Protection for Industrial Applications

Transformers play a critical role in industrial facilities, stepping up or down voltage levels to power motors, machinery, and lighting systems. However, the industrial environment presents unique challenges for transformer protection compared to traditional utility applications. This article examines the specific requirements for optimizing transformer protection in industrial applications, considering the dynamic and demanding nature of these settings.

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Challenges in Industrial Transformer Protection

High Starting Currents and Unbalanced Loads

Industrial machinery often requires high starting currents, leading to significant stress on transformers. Unbalanced loads, common in factories with diverse machinery, further complicate protection schemes. These conditions necessitate robust protection systems capable of handling extreme variations without compromising performance.

Harsh Environmental Conditions

Industrial transformers may operate in environments with high levels of dust, moisture, and chemical pollutants, which can accelerate wear and increase the risk of faults. Protection systems must be designed to withstand...

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...

Cybersecurity for Protective Devices

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems

The ever-increasing reliance on interconnected electrical protection systems necessitates robust cybersecurity measures. Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) play a vital role in safeguarding these critical infrastructure components from cyberattacks. This article explores the role...

Overcurrent and Short Circuit Protection

Coordinating Overcurrent Protection in Complex Power Systems

Modern power systems are intricate networks that deliver electricity from generation sources to various consumers. These systems comprise multiple layers, including high voltage transmission lines, substations, distribution feeders, and low voltage connections to end users. Ensuring reliable...

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...