Electrical system

Electrical system

In the UK electrical  current is generated at power station before reaching the building via overhead or underground cables.

First the voltage is increased to 400 Kw in a transformer, then current is distributed via the switching compound to the power grid. After that it reaches the principal grid supply points to be distributed to intermediate substation for heavy and light industry.

A step-down transformer near the building lowers the high line voltage to 240 V.

An underground or overhead cable from the transformer leads to the building where is connected to a meter that records the energy used. Immediately beyond the meter there is the main switch to protect the building against power surge.

The main service is then broken down into a number of circuits by a panelboard, from it the wires distribute the electricity to different areas.

The wires are in copper and are covered with thermoplastic insulation. The wires must be contained in conduits or plastic tubing, to protect against damage and reduce the possibility of fire.

Conduits are usually concealed in finished spaces within the framing of partition wall or above ceilings and terminate in junction boxes. They contain terminal device such as outlet, control switches, or point for built-in light fixtures.