Electrical Applications (Electrician Training Program)

This module provides an overview of photovoltaic (PV) science and an introduction to the fundamentals of solar energy. Through a combination of lecture, problem solving and hands-on lab exercises, students will learn the concepts and processes of photovoltaic systems, including their design and installation. The module covers the scope of solar energy systems’ conceptual, mechanical and electrical design, with an emphasis on wiring and electrical issues.

This course introduces the most current version of the National Electrical Code Book to the students as a guide throughout the class. The primary goal of the program is to teach basic techniques of Residential wiring from the standpoint of interpreting all code book requirements. Students will put into practice all that they have learned by wiring a scaled down three bedroom home. A study of electrical safety is provided to ensure a complete understanding of hand tools, ladders, shock hazards, and the personal protective equipment required to work in this field. They will be required to safely place all wiring, circuits, switches, receptacles, lighting fixtures, and GFCI devices in the trainer according to the electrical code.

The Commercial wiring course follows through with concepts learned in the Residential wiring course of training delving deeper into the National Electrical Code book. Students will be tasked with code book interpretation through the study of load calculations, blue print reading, cost estimating, three phase motor wiring, and conduit manipulation. Students will wire commercial lighting and three phase motors as they research the required applications. A mock commercial building will be wired by students in accordance with applicable code using conduit to protect their wiring.

This course follows through with the knowledge built in Electrical Wiring – Commercial with continued instruction in conduit bending up to 6” trade size using hydraulic bending equipment. This class explains the proper selection of pull boxes and junction boxes, the factors involved in conductor selection and calculations, the proper techniques for conductor installations, as well as the various applications necessary for conductor terminations and splices. Students will continue to advance in their ability to calculate load requirements for branch and feeder circuits in keeping with current standards of the National Electrical Code. This class will also introduce the installation of various voice, data, and video cabling systems.

This class elaborates on the characteristics of Alternating Current, explaining the behavior of electricity and how it functions in the application of motors, lighting, and the devices that control them. Students will learn the differences between DC and AC motors, Single Phase and 3 Phase applications, calculating the proper sizing of motors, and the selection of the motor controller as well as overload protection. This class also covers the characteristics of light, the handling and installation of various types of lighting (incandescent, fluorescent, high intensity discharge, LED), and the controls used in their operation.

This class will describe the operating characteristics of various types of transformers. Using the National Electrical Code, students will calculate transformer sizes for various applications. This module describes the purpose of switchgear, its construction, and maintenance. In this class, students will also understand the importance of overcurrent protection, describe the various types of fuses and circuit breakers in the industry, and select the proper size for specific applications. Students will also apply their knowledge of the proper methods for grounding and bonding according to the requirements of the NEC. This class describes the wiring methods for specific hazardous locations, and also introduces the installation of cable tray systems.