Issue 3 2016 Online

RIGHT ELECTRICAL DESIGN, SAFE HOME AND WORKPLACE

MARVEL WITH WIRELESS POWER

SOARING HIGH: 41ST ANC AND 3E XPO IN PICTURES

Volume xlv NO. 3 2016

THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE INSTITUTE OF INTEGRATED electrical engineers of the philippines, inc.

Sing and Dance with our SupEEr Woman Eat, Drink, and Sail in Zamboanga Passing the Board, Here’s How

SMARTENING UP THE PHILIPPINE GRID Will smart grid raise our power resiliency?

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2 | VOLUME XLV 3rd ISSUE 2016

IIEE.ORG.PH

ABOUT THE COVER

I N T E G R I T Y. I N N O V A T I O N . E M P O W E R M E N T. E X C E L L E N C E .

2016 THEME

S O A R I N G H I G H T O WA R D S G L O B A L I Z AT I O N

MEET THE TEAM

T H E E L E C T R I CA L E N G I N E E R E D I T O R I A L B OA R D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR TECHNICAL EDITOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

KRISTIAN CARLO B. VICTORIO MARVIN H. CASEDA ALLAN C. NERVES RAMON P. AYATON

E D I T O R I A L S TA F F EDITORIAL ASSISTANT/LAYOUT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING GRAPHICS

GELYN O. LEE JOHN CARLOS MANANSALA YNNA MARIE CRUZ VINCENT BRYAN VELEZ RALPH LAWRENCE CALIBO ULYSSES ALMOCERA APRIL ZAMORA

P U B L I CAT I O N S C O M M I T T E E CHAIRMAN VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERS

OVERSEER

KRISTIAN CARLO B. VICTORIO RONALD VINCENT M. SANTIAGO MARVIN H. CASEDA SHERWIN I. DELA PAZ ALLAN C. NERVES MA. CRISTINA F. SANDOVAL VICTORIANO J. SANTOS ERLINDO C. TACNENG JR. NOEL T. FERNANDEZ

A DV E R T I S I N G A N D M A R K E T I N G MARKETING SUPPORT

APPLE JUNE P. UBAY-UBAY

2 0 1 6 I I E E B OA R D O F G OV E R N O R S NATIONAL PRESIDENT VP-INTERNAL AFFAIRS VP-EXTERNAL AFFAIRS VP-TECHNICAL AFFAIRS NATIONAL SECRETARY NATIONAL TREASURER NATIONAL AUDITOR GOVERNOR-NORTHERN LUZON GOVERNOR-CENTRAL LUZON GOVERNOR-METRO MANILA GOVERNOR-SOUTHERN LUZON GOVERNOR-BICOL GOVERNOR-WESTERN VISAYAS GOVERNOR-EASTERN/CENTRAL VISAYAS GOVERNOR-NORTHERN MINDANAO GOVERNOR-SOUTHERN MINDANAO GOVERNOR-WESTERN MINDANAO INTERIM GOVERNOR- MIDDLE EAST OIC-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

LARRY C. CRUZ JOEBE B. PANHILASON FLORIGO C. VARONA NOEL T. FERNANDEZ ANGEL V. DE VERA JR. CIRILO C. CALIBJO FLORENCIO D. BERENGUEL MELCHOR S. LICOBEN NELSON S. ANDRES LYNDON R. BAGUE JEDDPER N. DE CASTRO ALWIN M. LUNAS DON D. BATICADOS WILFREDO P. CANIZARES DARWIN T. DAYMIEL MARY ANN M. BANTAYAN MARLI P. ACOSTA DE-FIESTA ROBERT U. MABULAY MARJORIE AGUINALDO-MUÑOZ

I I E E N AT I O N A L S E C R E TA R I AT D E PA R T M E N T H E A D S ADMINISTRATIVE TECHNICAL MARKETING MEMBERSHIP FINANCE

MA. ELENA U. LIONGSON MARY ANN B. GUILLEN ALLEN M. PIDO ALMA C. LARCE EMEE F. SULIT

TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY The Electrical Engineer is published quarterly by the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE), with editorial and business office at #41 Monte de Piedad St., Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.

Tel Nos. (632) 414-5626, Fax Nos. (632) 721-6442 & 410-1899.

Website: www.iiee.org.ph; E-mail: eemagazine@iiee.org.ph.

For an e-copy, you may visit our website, www.iiee.org.ph The present circulation of the magazine is 35,000 copies per issue to members and industry stakeholders.

Smartening up the Philippine grid is not something new. Somewhere in the distant past, engineers and policy makers dreamt of an energy future that is responsive to the needs of the end-users more than the electricity producers. As the West moves towards this direction, so should our power grids: where every home can monitor appliances individual consumption and shut it remotely, power lines sense fault on its own and isolates itself, solar panels, wind turbines and electrical energy storage systems just near where and when it is needed, electric cars not only charge from the mains but also supply power to your mains, and other styles to transform all sectors of the power grid responsive - supply, transmission, distribution, and consumers.

With all of the elements of the electric grid resembling the brain laid in the intricacy of meshes and networks, an intelligent grid is not an easy task but definitely requires professionals with unlimited visions of the future. After all, as once told: describing future is by creating it.

If this is really the way of tomorrow, and will answer the challenges of scarce electricity supply, geographical divisions of an archipelago like the Philippines, smart grids will not only make our country resilient from changing climatic patterns and other force majeure but also providing opportunities of growth to once remote islands and places. Can electrical practitioners take the challenge of connecting the country smartly?

GRAPHICS: JUSTINBERG BANTIGUE V O L U M E X LV NO. 3 2016

MISSION • To enhance the competencies of electrical practitioners to make positive contribution towards new trends and technologies • To be an authority of electrical engineering services that results to safe, reliable and efficient systems • To consistently deliver high quality products and services duly recognized by international organizations and institutions • To promote awareness on the use of environmentally friendly electrical products, services and resources as well as active participation on disaster preparedness and recovery programs VISION To be the leading electrical professional organization globally The views and opinions expressed by the contributors of The Electrical Engineer magazine do not necessarily reflect the views the editors and publishers of the magazine or of Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE). IIEE and the editorial board carry no responsibility for the opinions expressed in the magazine.

Articles or visual materials may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept, edit, or refuse submitted materials for publication.

Cover Story

24 THE POWER OF CONVERGENCE

“The vital point is to have leap of faith for the grids to be smarter, more modern and automated brought different branches of engineering to create the smart grid,” writes John Carlos Manansala, describing the forces that brought the emergence of a responsive power system.

More on page 24.

Special Feature: 41ST ANC and 3E XPO 20 SOARING HIGH VOLUME XLV

CONTENTS

“Loaded with activities and opportunities to make all electrical professionals soar high and globalize, 41st ANC and 3E Xpo is true to its theme - flying you high to new grounds,” our editor Kaycee Victorio tells. Find yourself in the photos on page 20.

No. 3 2016

Features

38 #PASADOSABOARD

EEnstructions 37 POWER TRIP WIRELESSLY

PEEs, REEs, and RMEs are naturally curious people.

With this new feature, The Electrical Engineer showcases your creative minds and skillful hands to build wonderful tools and cool gadgets. Let’s start with the design of wireless power transfer kit made for us Ralph Lawrence Calibo.

So what it takes for you to pass the most difficult board hurdles in the country? We ask our readers online what they have trade to have those crisp, polymericsmell PRC licenses and ready to conquer the world of electricity.

40 ARRIVING FROM THE TOP

The best advice of September 2016 REE topnotcher Alfred Ajo can share: Do the best you can in everything.

Check out our chat with him and with the top PEE Jose Cruz Jr. (Returning with a purpose)

Travel

32 COLORS AND CULTURE OF HERMOSA FESTIVAL

“More than 200 vintas clustered on the beach like butterflies fluttering their vibrant wings as it glide with the waves,” Ulysses John Almocera describes Zamboanga City’s Hermosa Festival. He continues, “It is only during the festival that these icons of Zamboanga can be seen sailing in the sea and the event is a feast for shutterbugs!”

Technical

42 DESIGN FOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY

On the last of two parts, Bert Brouwers concludes that “compared to certain other forms of energy, electricity has the benefit that the occurrence of hazardous events is influenced relatively easily by proper design of the electrical systems and devices.”

6 8

If not an EE practioner, She Bata shares to The Electrical Engineer that she’s probably “a lawyer or a chef.” We’re glad she choose to be one of us.

President's Desk

12 NEW BEGINNINGS

On his last hurrah in the magazine, outgoing 2016 President Larry Cruz reports that the Institute “have already broken the bonds of traditional practice and learned to embrace inevitable changes in the profession brought by globalization.”

Feedback

The Electrical Engineer made one of our readers cry.

Read on to find out why.

Ask the EExperts PEC1 ARTICLE 6.95: FIRE PUMP

Eduardo Tan outlines the Code requirements with one of the fire protection equipment. Tan reminds that “fire pump being an essential element in the life safety system must be maintained every now and then.”

EE Woman

30 SHE MAKES THE BEST OUT OF IT

NEW!

14

What's the News

• Legaspi mayor lauds EE in nation building • IIEE, PRC greet 5,380 new, upgrade electrical practioners • Zambasulta hosts Wesmin confab • Aurora chapter brings light after ‘Karen’ • Inspectors workshop goes South Luzon • IIEE, partners train 55 Mindoreños • RTU, BicolU champs ESAS, PEC quiz shows • ASEAN Shine launches calcu for aircon • IIEE, EU, DOE head for high efficient motors • 44 schools to National Quiz, Math bowls • Unlicensed engineers woe Bahrain

FEEDBACK WHY “THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER” MAGAZINE ALMOST MADE ME CRY

H

ow could IIEE‘s magazine for electrical engineers make me so emotional?

Funny, but true. I was teary eyed when I recently received from the mail this magazine with the blazing orange cover. It was my father’s. It was the remainder of his magazine subscription; the sticker label said so. It was a small part of him that I could hold on to long after he had gone.

Next month (September 30, 2015) will be his first death anniversary. The subscription would have ended by then, but he will still live on, my father the engineer. He is and will forever be missed in our family — my father, my inspiration.

It’s no coincidence I’m working in a place surrounded by engineers. I wanted to be here. I chose to be here.

I wanted to be like my father. It’s my source of pride that I stubbornly did not study to become an engineer (as both my parents secretly hoped, but then Math happened), yet somehow I ended up here in the electric power

industry doing something else that I love.

I may not have an “Engr.” title affixed to my name, but I am happy learning and just being in the company of amazing people who worked hard to earn that title. Just to be clear, there are hundreds more in the corporation who are nonengineers, but they work just as hard and are just as amazing. But these engineers, they are at the heart of NGCP’s operations, and a big part of what I do at work is learning from these experts and trying to communicate to different audiences how they operate the power grid.

After so many years, I’m still trying to learn as much as I can. It’s a neverending challenging experience to work here.

So now, as I leaf through “The Electrical Engineer” — my father’s last subscription — even the long technical articles seem strangely comforting, the transmission industry stories especially so. The words read familiar and feel just like home. I finally understand that it’s true: home is where my heart is.

ATTENTION READERS We welcome your ideas, questions, and feedbacks regarding our previous issues. The Electrical Engineer reserves the right to edit articles for the sake of clarity, grammar, and brevity.

Contributors of feature articles, technical papers and photographs will receive special token from The Electrical Engineer.

Send your feedbacks and contributions to eemagazine@iiee.org.ph.

Look carefully at the closest associations in your life, for that is the direction you are heading.

-Kevin Eikenberry

EE Humor

Faye de Jesus

REINVENTION OF THE WHEEL Editor's Note: This should have been included in the souvenir program for the 41st Annual National Convention and 3E XPO 2016. However, due to certain circumstances, the editorial staff failed to include this piece in print material. We opted to put it here. Enjoy!

In line with our country's efforts to become more and more globally competitive, sufficient electric power has to be generated to keep pace with the ever-growing demands for electric power brought on by the country becoming more linked to the rest of the world. Not only should there be sufficient, but also, affordable electric power. Then progress and

development can more easily be sustainable.

However, the generation of electric power impacts negatively on the climate. It generates pollution and if this is not addressed, development becomes unsustainable. For electric power generation to enable sustainable development, its negative impact on the climate must be minimized.

How do we minimize pollution in the generation of electric power? Only by ensuring that we use state-of-theart technology which enables us to generate electric power efficiently.

More specifically, using state-of-the-art

technology in generating power from renewable energy sources – especially from wind and sun --is one path we can take towards achieving the goal of ample, affordable and clean energy.

To make these intermittent sources competitive with the traditional energy sources of coal and gas, we must develop and employ electric power storage systems. IIEE can contribute in a very significant way towards making possible the development of such technologies by engaging in applied research, and thereby avoiding “reinvention of the wheel.”

Rodolfo N. Ferrer Chairman, IIEE Foundation, Inc.

6 | VOLUME XLV 3rd ISSUE 2016

IIEE.ORG.PH

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Ask the EExperts PEC1 ARTICLE 6.95

FIRE PUMP WORDS: Eduardo H. Tan

A

fire pump is an equipment that is designed to provide the required water pressure and flow to sustain a fire protection system as part of the emergency life safety system. The fire protection package consists of the adequately sized fire pump, jockey pumps, necessary controllers and drives, disconnecting means, transfer switch(es), properly sized wiring and other accessories.

Most common fire pumps can either be electric or diesel driven. (There are also steam driven fire pumps). Electric driven fire pumps are more compact, simple to design and maintain, less of an environmental headache, and do not need external fuel storage facilities unlike its diesel counterpart which will require combustible liquid fueling/refueling area, the storage space, ventilation, and maintenance that comes with it. The diesel fire pump requires a dedicated fuel storage for its operational sustainability (5.07 liter/Kw or 1 gal/HP plus 10% - NFPA 20). Unlike electric driven fire pumps, diesel fire pump depends only on its diesel fuel.

Electric driven fire pumps are entirely infrastructure dependent (the building structure and power supply feeders has to be built first specially if the electric fire pump is to be located in the mid-floor of a high rise), unlike the diesel counterpart that works anywhere as long as there is fuel.

When is a fire pump required? The Fire Code of the Philippines requires all buildings higher than 15 meters (measured from the road) to be provided with a sprinkler system. Multiple fire pumps are required as dictated by the largeness and height of the building.

Automatic fire pump system normally uses two pumps – the main Fire Pump which delivers the large water volume to the sprinkler system during fire; and the smaller (low flow/ high head) Jockey Pump that maintains the pressure of the system during normal condition (compensating for normal low water volume losses due to plumbing leaks). In case of fire however, and sprinkler head(s) opens, there will be a considerable pressure drop in the system over what the Jockey Pump can supply for, then the main Fire Pump starts and delivers the high water volume required to quench the fire.

The Fire Pump is classified as a critical component of the life safety of a building. With this in mind, careful planning shall be observed. Fire pumps must be protected against Explosion and Fire; Rain and Sun; Flooding and Earthquake; Vandalism; and other adverse conditions. Planning considerations should include a location for the fire pump in a room with at least 2 hours of fire rating or separation (for buildings not sprinklered and high rise), and at least 1 hour (for sprinklered building but not including high rise) , or at least 15.3 meters (50’) away from the building when installed outdoors. (NFPA 20 Section 4.12, IBC Section 9.3).

For special requirement for High Rise, refer to NFPA 20 section 4.12.1.1.2 (10).

Fire pump rooms must be dedicated for the fire pump and its associated equipment (tools and manuals for maintenance allowed) only and no storage of other nature shall be allowed.

A single power supply source to the fire pumps under Section 6.95.1.3 of the PEC is allowed but mandates that this be from a reliable power source capable of carrying indefinitely the sum of the locked-rotor current (LRC) of the fire pump(s), the pressure maintenance (Jockey) pump motor(s) and the full load current of the associated fire pump accessory.

Figure 1. Fire Pump Several governing codes covers the fire pumps and their installations. Among them includes: • • • • • • • • •

PEC- Philippine Electrical Code (Article 6.95) NFPA 70- National Electrical Code (NEC) NFPA 20- The Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection IBC- International Building Code IFC- International Fire Code NFPA 5000- Building Construction and Safety Code NFPA 101- Life Safety Code NFPA 110- Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems The Fire Code of the Philippines

The fire pump(s) shall be permitted to be supplied by a separate service, or a tap ahead of and not within the same cabinet, enclosure, or vertical switchboard section of the disconnecting means (see Figure 2); or an “on-site Power Production Facility” that is continuously running (a standby generator does not meet this requirement); or from Multiple Sources or feeders from two or more sources including that from a standby generator.

To comply with the definition of a reliable power supply. NFPA 20 (Annex A) states that to be so, the power supply has not had any shutdowns for longer than 4 hours in the previous year; experienced power outages that were not caused by natural disasters or grid failures; and that the fire pump has not been supplied by overhead conductors (this is to avoid utility provider from mistakenly cutting the overhead conductor serving the to the fire pump since the overhead power supply feeder is not identified).

To ensure continuity of power, wiring to the fire pump shall be sized to at least 125percent of the full load

8 | VOLUME XLV 3rd ISSUE 2016

IIEE.ORG.PH

RELIABLE POWER SOURCE

LOW VOLTAGE SWBD SEPARATION REQUIRED

minimum conductor size =1.25% full load of FP+JP+ 100% Accessories

VD not more than 15% of rated voltage of controller at controller line terminal (using LRC)

VD not more than 5% of motor voltage rating when motor is running at 115% full load current rating

TAP BEFORE MAIN (REF #)

1

2 3

OVERCURRENT DEVICE SIZED TO LOCKED ROTOR CURRENT (LRC) OF FIRE PUMP + JOCKEY PUMP + 100% ACCESSORIES LOCKABLE IN "ON" POSITION NO GROUND FAULT FEATURE

STANDBY GENERATOR SWBD

TO OTHER EMERGENCY LOADS

TRANSFER SWITCH

(LISTED)

NOT PERMITTED WITHIN THE PUMP CONTROLLER

TAP CONDUCTOR CONTROLLER (LISTED)

CONTROLLER (LISTED)

FP

FP

(LISTED)

(LISTED)

G

SHALL BE WITHIN THE FIRE PUMP ROOM

STANDBY GENERATOR AS AN ALTERNATIVE POWER SOURCE

JOCKEY PUMP CONTROLLER & DISCONNECT

Figure 2. Schematic diagram of fire pump current of the fire pump motor and jockey pump loads plus 100 percent of the auxiliary loads.

Wire sizes shall be adjusted to maintain a voltage drop of: not more than 15 percent (using the locked rotor value) of the controller’s rated voltage (from source to controller) or; not more than 5 percent of the motor voltage rating at the motor terminals when the motor is running at 115 percent of the fire pump full load current rating, which ever results in the bigger conductor size.

The following is useful formula to compute for the voltage drop:

Cmil = (1.732 x K x I x D) /VD Where: • Cmil is the conductor size in circular mils • K is the conductor constant 12.9 ohms for copper • I is the current through the conductor • D is the distance of the pump controller or motor terminal from the source in feet • VD is the allowable voltage drop For our subject: VD at Controller -Use pump locked rotor for I which is equal to 6 X I full load Allowable VD is 15percent, or VD at motor terminals – Use 115 percent I full load.

Allowable is 5 percent.

Conductor runs shall be protected, either run outside the building or in Rigid Steel conduit or intermediate conduit encased in 50 mm (2”) concrete when run inside the building (as if run outside the building). All wiring from motor controllers to the pump motors shall be in rigid metal conduit, or intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible metal conduit, or liquidtight flexible non-metallic conduit Type LFNC-B, or Fire resistant cables (MI - mineral insulated) can be used to add to the reliability of the fire pump wiring. (1 hour fire rating is required for Fire pump wiring).

Pump controllers are required to be near the pump

(technically in the same room) which it controls.

Prudence dictates that these controllers should be installed at least 300mm (12 “) above ground to avoid water damage. Pump controllers need to be listed.

Fire pump Controller normally starts the pump motor on reduced voltage. It is also equipped with a bypass switch that shunts the starter in case of emergencies, and hence the motor is started on a Full Voltage Across the Line resulting in the locked rotor current (LRC), hence the requirement to size the protective device to carry the LRC. The PEC requires the fire pump to run at up to a locked rotor current which is about 6 times the full load current. Protective device (from the normal power source) shall be rated to carry the locked rotor current. (preferably with an instantaneous trip and no ground fault protection). Protective device shall be locked in the closed position to avoid accidental power interruption to the pump. Disconnects to the fire pump shall be marked “Fire Pump Disconnecting Means”. Letters shall be at least 25mm (1”) in height and visible without opening the enclosure. If an alternate power supply is from an onsite standby generator set, the code does not require it to be sized to carry the locked rotor current.

Reduced starter tend to address and alleviate the burden of the locked rotor current on the generator set (since the generator set is only required to take on the Fire Pump running current). Listed transfer switch (color red for fire pump) is required to be located at the pump room for the transfer of power to the emergency standby generator supply. Again, the protective device at the generator supply is marked and can be locked in the closed position, to avoid nuisance power interruption.

The fire pump being an essential element in the Life Safety system must be maintained every now and then.

As the saying goes, “KEEP THE PUMP RUNNING NO MATTER WHAT”. ▌

IIEE.ORG.PH

VOLUME XLV 3rdISSUE 2016 | 9

FROMTHEEDITOR

TAKING RESPONSIBILITY

When I applied for graduate studies in UP Diliman two years ago, one of the questions that did hit my bones is why there are only few people from the Department of Energy (DOE) taking the Energy Engineering program of the country’s national university. I answered that I have no idea, mentally noting that I know a few people who manage to enroll in the program many years ago and knew only two middle-level leaders who manage to finish it.

Why does the country’s premier energy agency is lacking of graduates from a multi-disciplinary engineering program focused in the Philippines? Maybe DOE employees are being trained abroad, instead locally, where the expertise are broad and rich. Or maybe the program is not popular even in the halls of the Philippine Energy department.

With all of the maybes, I took the question as a challenge. In short, ginalingan ko talaga! When energy policies and government actions were hot in classroom discussions, all eyes (and ears) are on me, waiting for someone from DOE to share. For my instructor and classmates, it's an insider’s point of view. For me, it’s my responsibility to give justice to my colleagues’ work, to make my agency proud.

I am almost done with my studies. With thesis writing at bay, the cover story of this issue came to me like network of memories. Smart grid may not be a hot issue inside our classrooms (we are more rigorous in talking about coal, petroleum products, nuclear power, electricity prices, climate change and global warming) but I got hooked with one of the laboratories of the University’s Electrical and Electronics Institute that is doing researches in the future of power grids.

What interests me is that while developed countries have been rolling out technologies for an intelligent power system, our researchers and engineers in the UP Smart Grid Research Center (SGRC) are building platforms to make our country ready once we embrace the advantages of smart electricity grids. With smart meters for household appliances, building management systems, and line fault detectors, we can only wait with these homegrown technologies being rolled out to improve our power lines, thus provide for a sustainable and stable energy future.

Although not featured in this issue, researches from the UP have already made through the pages of the magazine (4 Filipino Ideas That Will Change The Way We Use Energy, Volume XLIV No. 3). This time, we focused on how a smart future with an intelligent power system will look like for Filipinos as we try it bit by bit with the largest power distributor on the lead. Looking forward for other utilities to follow.

Whatever is next to our future, it will always depend on the hands that will create it. We feature three EEs and on how they will create the shared future we will all enjoy. Joe Cruz, She Bata, and Jong Ajo, have common denominator - they take responsibilities of their own worlds, so those the researchers and engineers of SGRC. So with you is the magazine that does not only inform but make you think and decide - are we willing to be good and do good, or slumber and be mediocre. It's taking full responsibility with our personal and professional lives. So think smart as we make the future of the Philippines smart as well.

Kaycee kayceebvictorioofficial iieephils

10 | VOLUME XLV 3rd ISSUE 2016

John Carlos Manansala chooses to pursue his passion for writing in the world of engineering.

Ynna Cruz usually deals with computers but she is also a bookworm, a foodee and a wanderer. She also edit videos and write songs.

Vincent Bryan Velez is currently taking BS Civil Engineering yet still chasing his dream as a journalist.

April Zamora is a freelance artist and animator who loves anime, games and ducks. Visit her portfolio site at aprilsworkshop. tumblr.com.

Ralph Lawrence Calibo is a selfdescribed tech geek, science/ math nerd, perfectionist and last but not the least, an introvert.

Ulysses Almocera is a humanitarian worker on weekdays, wanderlust on weekends.

Bert Brouwers obtained an MSc in Mechanical Engineering at TU/e in 1972 (cum laude).

IIEE.ORG.PH

PRESIDENT'S DESK

IIEE.ORG.PH

VOLUME XLV 3rdISSUE 2016 | 11

PRESIDENT'S DESK

NEW BEGINNINGS National President LARRY C. CRUZ

A

s we move closer in the realization of our global aspirations, the Institute raises the standard of competition apt to both and local and international arena. Globalization brings innovation, industry and professional challenges and wider possibilities for improvement and greater opportunities at the door step of electrical practitioners.

There is no other relevant time for our electrical practitioners to ultimately succeed in the global arena.

Therefore it is the Institute’s obligation to set the bar of electrical engineering community and enhance technical competencies of its members.

Guided by Vision 2020, this year’s leadership instituted operational efficiency and implemented process improvement to improve services offered to members, to strengthen relationship with stakeholders and to sustain the Institute’s corporate brand.

FINANCIAL GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY The Institute utilized only 85 percent of the projected expenses while achieving 92 percent of the target revenue for the year resulting to unaudited net surplus amounting to Php13,080,137.79.

IIEE has continued its engagement with Punongbayan & Araullo for the preparation of this year’s financial statement.

To further enhance controls and monitoring, policies on cash advance, petty cash, reimbursement, chapter remittance and chapter request for official receipt were improved.

MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & SATISFACTION Our membership strength is now at 54, 378 active members equivalent to 15.27percent growth compared last year.

The two oath taking ceremonies for successful licensure examinees for Professional Electrical Engineer, Registered Electrical Engineer and Registered Master Electrician held last May 6, 2016 and October 8, 2016 marked considerable increase to the membership which captured 2, 693 new members.

The program on members’ professional advancement resulted to 98 new PEE. Meanwhile, the Institute, through the initiative of AAPER Committee, exceeded its target membership for ASEAN Chartered Professional Engineer and ASEAN Engineer Registries having 67 ASEAN Chartered Professional Engineers and 87 ASEAN Engineers.

The Membership & Chapter Development Committee spearheaded the enhancement of the membership portal. They successfully completed 90 percent of the proposed enhancement.

CORPORATE BRANDING Aiming to develop and sustain the Institute’s corporate brand, this year’s leadership successfully developed 13 subject matter experts, implemented three new programs and six memorandum of agreement with government and private agencies.

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OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE & PROCESS INNOVATION The Institute implements continuous process improvement in the delivery of service to its members and stakeholders – review & improve operational processes & procedures, provide necessary trainings & seminars to IIEE employees and create employee satisfaction survey.

2016 at IIEE National Office, Cubao, Quezon City 2. Philippine Technological Council’s Regular Board Meeting held last September 14, 2016, October 20, 2016 and December 20, 2016.

3. Professional Regulation Commission’s Professional Summit held last October 29, 2016 at the Manila Hotel.

To improve the operation of the IIEE chapters, collaborative efforts of the IIEE Manual Committee heeded to the revision of the Manual of Operation for Chapters which was presented during the Chapter Officers Meeting held last November 25, 2016 at Microtel Hotel, Pasay City.

Likewise IIEE brings global and professional challenges in the forefront of its members and electrical practitioners by holding the following regional conferences and convention:

To enhance capabilities and competencies of electrical practitioners, the Institute successfully conducted 32 onsite seminars and six offsite seminars.

1.) 17th Bicol Regional Conference held last September 23-24, 2016 at Legazpi Convention Center, Legazpi City, Albay with over 300 delegates.

To address the different issues pertaining to the conduct of national election, the Committee on Electoral Process Improvement was created and tasked to study the possibility of utilizing electronic voting for the Institute.

2.) 4th Western Mindanao Regional Conference held last October 7-8, 2016 at Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City with over 250 delegates.

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT & ADVOCACY Aiming to contribute to the industry’s growth and to national development, the Institute supports the following programs and advocacies: 1.) Electrical Safety Enforcement & Awareness • Conducted the “Training the Inspectors Program” last September 24, 2016 at Malolos City, Bulacan and December 4-5, 2016 at Tagaytay City, Cavite.

2.) Switch Asia Project: High Efficiency Motors (HEMS) • Conducted technical presentations in the 17th Bicol Regional and 4th Western Mindanao Regional Conferences which aim to increase deployment of efficient electric motors and drive systems in the country.

3.) EU-ASEAN SHINE Project • To increase the market share of higher efficient air-conditioner in ASEAN in the country, technical presentations were conducted in the 17th Bicol Regional and 4th Western Mindanao Regional Conferences.

4.) IIEE Ladies Auxiliary Feeding Program • In celebration of the Institute’s 42nd Founding Anniversary, IIEE Ladies Auxiliary conducted Feeding Program among the street children of Barangay Immaculate Conception, Cubao, Quezon City.

Paving our way to Vision 2020, the Institute upholds various activities and continuously supporting its valued stakeholders’ endeavors.

1. IIEE’s 41st Founding Anniversary which was attended by the Executive Committee, CNP, Ladies Auxiliary, committees and secretariat held last September 17,

3.) 41st Annual National Convention and 3E XPO last November 23-26, 2016 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Attended by over 4, 000 delegates and 201 local and international exhibitors, this four-day event marked another successful history of the Institute by holding the following significant activities: a.) EE Practitioners’ Night b.) Simultaneous Technical Sessions (held at SMX

function rooms and at Conrad Hotel functio rooms) c.) Research Colloquium and Students Forum d.) RME Forum e.) Exhibition (open to public) 4.) Turnover Ceremonies and Officers’ Christmas Party last December 10, 2016 at Meralco Lighthouse, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City. This is the culmination of the annual activities which was attended by the Board, Committee Chairmen and Members, CNP, Ladies Auxiliary and Secretariat.

Like any stories, mine has just ended. But I believe that every ending promises a new beginning.

It was a tough journey but I am very fortunate to have a supportive team, the TEAM QUARTS. Paving our way to Vision 2020, we have already broken the bonds of traditional practice and learned to embrace inevitable changes in the profession brought by globalization.

This year’s leadership owe its success to the general membership and officers whose commitment and dedication have become inspiration to everyone.

May you continue to support the next set of leaders.

Let us enjoin hands as we embark aggressive direction towards global recognition. ▌

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WHAT'S THE NEWS

THANK YOU

Longest serving employees were put into the spotlight in the 41st Founding Anniversary of the Institute as officers honor Grendil Diestro (5th from the left), former Executive Director Ramon Ayaton, Eustaquio Libo-on, Alma Larce, and Allen Pido for their outstanding service to IIEE and its members. The occasion last September 17 witnessed symbolic ceremonies with wines, candles, and cakes, a socials night plus an entertainment from IIEE staff and Mezzo band.

PHOTO: Gelyn Lee

LEGASPI MAYOR LAUDS EE IN NATION BUILDING The 17th IIEE Bicol Regional Conference took center stage last September 22-24 at the Legazpi City Convention Center, Legazpi City with the Legazpi City Mayor Noel E. Rosal gracing the event.

Mayor Rosal, in his speech, emphasized the electrical engineers continued participation in the country’s development and progress. On the other hand, the closing ceremonies guest speaker Engr. Francis V. Mapile, Chairman of the Board of Electrical Engineering, appreciated “the Institute’s strong commitment and determination in achieving globalization and enhancing the competitiveness of our professionals to meet the global challenges we face today.”

The IIEE Albay-Legazpi chapter hosted the event. ▌

Bicol Regional Conference in session at Legazpi City, Albay.

PHOTO: Eustaquio Libo-on

IIEE, PRC GREET 5,380 NEW, UPGRADE ELECTRICAL PRACTITIONERS An REE from Cebu, RME from Sorsogon, and an 84-year old PEE led the pack of 5,380 new and upgraded electrical practitioners during the oathtaking ceremonies hosted by the Professional Regulation Commission, Board of Electrical Engineering (BEE), and IIEE, October 8.

Engr. Alfred Isaac Ajo, a graduate of Cebu Institute of Technology, topped the 2,817 new REEs while Aidan Encarnacion of Sorsogon State College led the 2,525 new RMEs. Dr. Jose Cruz Jr., the first Ardon.

summa cum laude of UP Diliman, joined the roster of upgraded professionals with other 37 PEEs. Present in the ceremonies held at the Philippine International Convention Center were Engr.

Arwin Ardon, PNOC Renewables Corporation president of keynote speaker, Atty. Lovelika Bautista, secretary-in-charge to the Professional Regulatory boards, Engr. Francis Mapile, BEE chairman, Engr. Jaime Mendoza, BEE member, and Engr. Larry Cruz, IIEE national president. ▌

PHOTO: Diana Dollesen

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ZAMBASULTA HOSTS WESMIN CONFAB More than 200 delegates joined the 4th Western Mindanao Regional Conference held at the Royce Convention Center, Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City last October 6-8 and hosted by the IIEE ZamBaSulTa chapter.

Governor Marlie Acosta-De Fiesta addresses the delegates of Western Mindanao Regional Conference at Zamboanga City.

PHOTO: Eustaquio Libo-on

The conference was graced

by Zamboanga City Mayor Hon. Maria Isabelle G. Climaco and Ms. Josephine E. Pareja, Councilor of the 1st District of Zamboanga City.

Various activities were conducted together with different partners such as bloodletting activity with Philippine National Red Cross and Western Mindanao State University, building wiring and industrial motor controls skills competition with National Power Corporation Small Power Utilities Group, with technical seminars provided by different speakers and sponsors. ▌

AURORA CHAPTER BRINGS LIGHT AFTER ‘KAREN’ IIEE Aurora Chapter in coordination with the Association of Certified Electricians in Aurora (ACEA) joined forces with the Aurora Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AURELCO) to restore electric power in the province after Typhoon Karen devastation last October 16.

Eight RME and nine REE members participated in the service drop fixing from October 22-24. AURELCO provided all the materials needed in the fix while IIEE and ACEA augmented the 18-lineman force of the electric cooperative.

Engr. Rodel Calonge, Aurora chapter president, said that the ‘Balik Liwanag’ program “has promoted camaraderie not only with the members of the Institute but also to the locals of Aurora.”

AURELCO General Manager Noel Vedad thanked the volunteers in helping restore electric power earlier than expected. ▌

Members of the IIEE Aurora chapter, Aurora Electrical Cooperative and Association of Certified Electricians in Aurora work together to repair electrical connections after the Typhoon Karen hit the province.

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PHOTO: Aurora Chapter

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WHAT'S THE NEWS

INSPECTORS WORKSHOP GOES SOUTH LUZON Continuing the nation-wide advocacy for electrical safety awareness, IIEE Electrical Safety Enforcement and Awareness (ESEA) Team together with the Electrical Safety Committee (ESC) conducted its fourth Training the Electrical Inspectors Program in Hotel Dominique, Tagaytay City, 28 October.

Led by Engr. Hipolito Leoncio, the IIEEESEA and ESC team partnered with International Copper Association- Southeast Asia (ICASEA), the training program gathered 28 electrical inspectors from the local governments of

Lopez discusses contractor’s best practices before 28 Caviteños during the Training the Electrical Inspectors Program in Tagaytay City.

PHOTO: Micah Crisologo

Amadeo, Bacoor, General Mariano Alvarez, General Trias, Indang, Kawit, Maragondon, Naic, Noveleta, Rosario, Ternate and Trece Martirez from Cavite province.

Discussions on grounding checklist by Engr. Ernesto Valdez, overcurrent protection devices and panel boards by Engr. Joselito Marquez, electric plan review by Engr. Jesus David, fire code by Fire bureau Capt. Anthony Arroyo, design analysis by Engr. Rodolfo Renolla, and contractors’ best practices by Engrs. Justo Lopez Jr. and Nestor Rivera, the training aims to upgrade the skills of the local inspectors and to standardize procedures in inspection.

Previously, the same training program were conducted with local inspectors from Tacloban last February 19-20; Legaspi City, May 13-14; Bacolod, August 26-27; and Bulacan, September 24. ESEA, ESC and ICASEA plans to conduct at least four electrical inspectors training around the country every year. ▌

IIEE, PARTNERS TRAIN 55 MINDOREÑOS 55 seaweed farmers from 11 baranggays in San Jose, Mindoro Occidental undergone Basic Electrical Training from IIEE, November 7-11. The seaweed farmersturned-baranggay electricians will be tapped as local partners of the Institute and Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (OMECO) in the maintenance and implementation of electrical safety and standards in the province.

During the week-long training, resource speakers Casimiro Flores, Freddie Enriquez, Celso Garcia, Mike Guico, Edsel Pedernal and Jeddper de Castro discussed service application process, tools and equipment, test and measurement, and installation of some electrical devices and instruments. Participants have also undergone evaluation exam after each training day.

Casimiro Flores (top) gives lecture on electrical safety to 55 seaweed farmers before the start of hands-on training after which poses with the participants and partners of the Basic Electrical Training at Mindoro Occidental.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The project has been carried out with Management Association of the Philippines, Office of the Vice Mayor of San Jose Occidental Mindoro, Seaweed Industry Association of the Philipines, Plan International, Kabisig ng Kalahi, Occidental Mindoro State College and OMECO. ▌

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RTU, BICOLU CHAMPS ESAS, PEC QUIZ SHOWS Rizal Technological University (RTU) and Bicol University emerged as champion in the Clash of the Intellects in Engineering Sciences and Allied Subjects (CIENSCIA) and Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) quiz show respectively, November 25 at the SMX Convention Center.

University and Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sto. Tomas. 31 colleges and universities participated in the competition.

One of the sidelines of the IIEE Annual National Convention, CIENSCIA and PEC quiz shows formed part of the 3rd Electrical Engineering and Technology Student Summit organized by the Council of Student Chapters.

Prior to the contents, series of technical and non-technical seminars on financial education, energy management, generation and transportation technology, energy storage devices, substation preventive maintenance, and EE career path and progression were attended by more than 600 student participants. ▌

RTU led the 29-school team competition in Engineering Sciences and Allied Subjects, one of the three components of the EE board exams. BicolU placed second and Lyceum of the Philippines University-Cavite landed third.

Meanwhile, BicolU, a perennial champion of the PEC Quiz Show in the last 14 years, topped the competition, followed by Southern Luzon State

Winners from Bicol University, South Luzon State University and Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Santo Tomas pose after the PEC quiz (left). Rizal Technological University students show how the team works to lead CIENSCIA quiz show.

PHOTO: Cherrie Lyn Bansale

ASEAN SHINE LAUNCHES CALCU FOR AIRCONS The Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines organized last November 24, the launching of the ASEAN Shine Cost Saving Calculator at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

AC Select (shown as screenshots from iPad) the mobile app that calculates the savings between two air conditioners can be downloaded to your smartphones via Play Store or App Store.

The event, supported by the Department of Energy, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Philippine Appliance Industry Association, aims to make consumers aware on the proper selection of the most efficient and economical air conditioning units through the use of a cost saving calculator.

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AC Select, a cost saving calculator, is a mobile application that is downloadable in Playstore (for Android phones) and Appstore (for iOs phones).

The activity kicked off with a press and media conference followed by the project introduction and acknowledgement of partners

by Engr. Arthur A. Lopez, Country Coordinator ASEAN Shine project (Philippines).

Mr. Jessie L. Todoc, country manager of International Copper Association Southeast Asia Ltd. capped the event with the project remarks. ▌ VOLUME XLV 3rdISSUE 2016 | 17

WHAT'S THE NEWS

IIEE, EU, DOE HEAD FOR HIGH EFFICIENT MOTORS

FORUM HIGHLIGHTS ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR BANKS, ESCOS, INDUSTRIES The EU co-funded project “Switch to High Efficiency Motors (HEMs)” launched a forum on “Gearing for Regional Competitiveness through Energy Efficiency” on 12 December 2016 at the Maxims Hotel. IIEE External Vice President Florigo Varona, EU Delegation to the Philippines Programme Manager Gabriel Dayre and Energy Undersecretary Cristino Posadas graced the event.

The forum showcased global developments in the energy efficiency ecosystem. Key stakeholders from the financial sector, energy service companies (ESCOs), motor distributors/manufacturers and industry endusers shared how the EU HEMs project is transforming their respective sectors.

Financial institutions such as BPI and the Development Bank of the Philippines shared their sustainable energy finance and green financing program, respectively, noting that HEMs is now included in their loan portfolios.

Given that the project is working with DOE to establish motor efficiency performance standards (MEPS) in the Philippines, the project is setting the stage where old inefficient motors will soon be out of the market and replaced by HEMs.

BPI Vice President Jo Ann Eala shares how the bank assists companies towards energy efficiency and using other clean technologies.

Part of the EU HEMs project advocacy is to expand the ESCO sector. The event recognized the 24 companies that trained with the EU HEMs project to become ESCOs, ready to assist more companies plan and implement their energy efficiency programs.

EU delegation to the Philippines Programme Manager Gabriel Dayre (left, seated) and IIEE Vice President for External Affairs Florigo Varona signs agreement to promote high efficient motors in the country.

PHOTOS: HEMs

44 SCHOOLS TO NATIONAL QUIZ, MATH BOWLS 44 student-teams from different colleges and universities in the

country prepares for the National Quiz Show (NQS) and National Math Wizard (NMW) competition in Manila, February 15-17 next year.

25 teams will compete in the 30th edition of NQS, the ultimate showdown of EE students on three board exam categories of Mathematics, Engineering Sciences and Allied Subjects, and Electrical Engineering.

The EU HEMs project is spearheaded by the IIEE with the support of European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation, Association of Development Financing Institution in Asia and the Pacific, Action Sustainable Development and International Copper Association Southeast Asia. ▌

Also, 25 teams will prove their arithmetic prowess in the 16th NMW. Both competitions have been organized by the IIEE Council of Student Chapters.

All student-teams have been regional winners in the simultaneous events conducted in conjunction of the Regional Student Conference last September 15-17. ▌

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TURNOVER

2016 President Larry Cruz (left) exhanges nameplates with 2017 President Joebe Panhilason during the Turnover Ceremonies and Christmas Party at the Meralco Lighthouse, December 10. Cruz also recognized efforts of different officers, committee members, and other member-volunteers for their dedicated service to the general membership. The turn-over ceremony also highlights the welcoming of Cruz to the Council of National President, with Raymond Marquez as the 2017 chairman.

PHOTO: Gelyn Lee

UNLICENSED ENGINEERS WOE BAHRAIN IIEE and the Board of Electrical Engineering has warned EEs working in Bahrain to register to government authorities or faced uneasy consequences.

This is when the Council for Regulating the Practice of Engineering Professions (CRPEP) released an order in July regulating the practice of engineering profession by requiring foreign engineers to apply for license until September this year.

“There is a big number of engineers out there who are unlicensed and working on big projects,” stated CRPEP Chairman Abdulmajed Al Qassab affirming Bahrain’s national issue.

According to Qassab, there were “freelancers” in the country practicing the engineering profession illegally.

Some of them, Qassab explained, were creating a huge scam by colluding with engineering firms in getting their documents stamped.

Despite the order, only 1,763 engineers in the private sector (where 71 percent are non-Bahrainis) and 1,100 engineers in the public were given license at the end of the deadline.

Currently, there are 48 IIEE members working in the Middle East country, as of December 2016. IIEE Bahrain chapter tallied nine members as officially registered to CRPEP, citing more members are awaiting approval and release of their respective applications.

Engr. Amado Taduran, president of the Bahrain chapter, said in an email that not all Filipino engineers working in Bahrain cannot apply for CRPEP license because most of them are employed not as an engineer, hence no engineer visa has been issued to them. Engineer visa is an essential requirement to work in either consulting or contracting firm in Bahrain.

“Some companies do not provide an engineer visa to their staff although the actual jobs… involve engineering practices,” Taduran added.

However, IIEE Bahrain chapter provides assistance to all members in the country in the renewal of their professional license, a main requirement in the application to CRPEP as the organization closely monitoring the developments and campaigns to members to follow Manama labor regulations. ▌

QATAR TECH SEMINARS

State of Qatar Chapter hold its 3rd Technical Seminar and General Membership Meeting last September 2 at the Crystal Palace Hotel, Doha. The affair brought together more than 200 participants comprising of members of the chapter and guest-members from Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineering of the Philippines with discussions on Philippine solar energy opportunities, arc flash analysis, and planning and design of underground distribution system. Philippines Vice Consul Kristine Bautista provided updates on Doha’s Ministry Municipality and Environment engineering accreditation.

PHOTO: Qatar Chapter

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SPECIAL FEATURE: 41st ANC and 3E XPO

Soaring High Since words are not enough, we rather tell the Annual National Convention in pictures

B

eing one of the best Annual National Convention (ANC) and 3E Xpo 2016 is an understatement, but no doubt, IIEE’s version to gather the professionals in the country is by far the best. As far as the 3,914 delegates of the ANC and 12,010 visitors of the 3E Xpo 2016, this year’s biggest assembly of PEEs, REEs, RMEs and EET (electrical engineering and technology) students was a week to remember. Loaded with activities and opportunities to make all electrical professionals soar high and globalize, 41st ANC and 3E Xpo is true to its theme - flying you high to new grounds.

So how was November 22 to 26 went? Word are not enough so we rather tell you what happened with our carefully curated pictures that surely will make you attend again next year! ▌

Land of Solar PV 146 participants trouped the largest solar farm in Luzon for this year’s plant tour, November 22. Covering 160 ha of land in the boundaries of Calatagan, Lian, and Balayan towns in Batangas, the 63.3-MW Calatagan Solar Farm is owned and operated by Solar Philippines. Participants were in awe with the sea of over 200,000 metaloid panels that could energize the entire western portion of the province.

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K-Ligtas Awards K-Ligtas (Kuryenteng Ligtas) Awards honor organization and businesses that observe excellent practices in electrical safety and promotion of safety in workplace. Winners were awarded during the sidelines of the ANC Opening ceremonies, November 24 which includes Nestle Philippines, Inc. Cabuyao Plant, Crimson Hotel, BAG Electronics, Inc., and Pasay City LGU. K-Ligtas Awards, the country’s first industry recognition of its kind, a project of Meralco with Meralco Power Academy, IIEE, Professional Regulations Commission, Occupation Safety and Health Center, Department of Labor and Employment, Bureau of Fire Protection, and UP College of Engineering.

Gatchalian: Focus in Education Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, keynote speaker during the opening ceremonies stresses the importance of education to keep the country soaring high toward globalization. He notes, “As regional and global integration continue to move forward, opportunities for you to make a real difference in the global tapestry of humanity will continue to grow at an exponential rate.” He believes that as opportunities of quality science, technology, engineering and mathematics education has been accessible to all Filipino youth, “more and more bright young students answer the call to play their role in building a progressive society, a knowledge-intensive economy, and of course, a stable, sulit, and affordable energy supply.”

Product lines and Services BATTERY Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Vented / Flooded type Deep Cycle / Solar / Golf Car Traction / Motive Power Nickel Cadmium (Nicad)

DC POWER SYSTEMS Industrial type Battery Charger Switchmode Rectifier Modular Traction Battery Charger

AC POWER SYSTEMS Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) Inverters

SURGE PROTECTION (TVSS) AC Power Photovoltaic Telephone Line Data Line High Frequency Coaxial Gas Discharge

Engineering Services Installation Commission Testing Preventive Maintenance

Thyristor Type Charger Microprocessor Controlled Remote Access Load Sharing Operation

#335-A R.S. Cristobal Sr. Street, Sampaloc, Manila Philippines 1008 Telefax No.: (+63-2) 7814626VOLUME XLV Email: inquiry@genikos.com IIEE.ORG.PH 3rdISSUE 2016 | 21 Tel. No.: (+63-2) 5220103 Website: www.genikos.com Mobile No.: 09189515040 (Smart), 09178632002 (Globe), 09328583975 (Sun)

SPECIAL FEATURE: 41st ANC and 3E XPO Empowering Leaders Upon the initiative of National President Larry Cruz,40 chapter presidents and Metro Manila chairmen converged in a leadership workshop facilitated

by Hernan Espiritu of First Pacific Leadership Academy, November 23.

Officers were introduced to different leadership types, Power Kaizen card, and empowering leadership activities to augment their management skills in cascading information and services to members and stakeholders.

More on Renewables Energy from nature takes the centerstage in the 3E Xpo 2016: A Specialized Electrical, Electronics and Energy Exposition with record breaking 202 exhibitors, ran from November 23-26. Visitors enjoyed games, product presentations, and other gimmicks to introduce products and services ranging from solar panel technologies, small wind turbines, smart home solutions, wires and cables, machinery supplies, electrical peripheries to adhesives.

RME in the crossroads of globalization RME Forum tackles the challenges and opportunities to our master electricians in the advent of internationalization, November 26. Rogelio Velarde, Mel Dennis Ferrer, and Lyndon Bague led the discussion on maritime industry qualifications, international educational qualifications for engineering technologist and technicians (Sydney and Dublin accord), and application for ASEAN and APEC technicians and technologist registry brought questions and answers to almost 200 RMEs in attendance.

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11th IIEE Research Contest EE students took turns to showcase outstanding undergraduate researches in the eleventh-run of IIEE Research Contest, November 23. Electromagnetic Shielding of Recycled Aluminum Foil in Energy Reduction in Low-Voltage Appliances of the University of Southeastern Philippines championed the search, followed by the study on Development of Low Cost Android Based Energy Consumption Monitoring and Control System, Technological Institute of the PhilippinesQuezon City and CICI: Design and Development of Cordless Induction Clothes Iron, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Manila.

Job hunt With six local companies to apply, 211 members got their resumes readied for possible work placement in the Job Fair organized by the Membership Committee. Open to all delegates of the Convention, the one-day job hunt last November 24 featured power system equipment manufacturing, laboratory instruments, metal works, and energy servicing companies.

2016 GOLF SPONSORS Major Sponsors • Asiaphil Group of Companies • Schneider Electric Philippines • Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corp. (MIESCOR) • Alternative Power Solutions, Inc. • Megawide Construction Company • Emerald Vinyl Corporation • Phelps Dodge Philippines Energy Products Corporation • Dyna Power Corporation • Orion Wire & Cable, Inc. HOLE Sponsors

Salazar: Convergence is a must As baby steps taken by renewable energy source in the country, Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Jose Vincente Salazar highlights the seamless integration, interoperability and cyber protection of the evolving landscape of Philippine power system. “As engineers, this is not new to you. Systems work when parts are in sync because each spoke stabilizes the whole.

By the same token, the integrity of entire systems is diminished by the weakest links,” he emphasizes.

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• ABB, Inc. • Intellisys Power Controls Corporation • PEMCOR Industries • Dagupan Electric Corporation • Jedd Technologies Corporation • Cross-Link Electric and Construction Corporation • Delta Star Power Mfg. Corp.

• Cooltech Electrical & Mechanical Supplies Inc. • BCI Bag Manufacturing • Trade Edition Inc. • Sycwin Coating & Wires, Inc. • Philips Wire & Cable, Co. (Philflex) • IVM Phils Services and Contractor Inc. • RCD Electrical Design & Consultancy • Energynet, Inc. • ELECTROSOFT Incorporated • TRIACTA Power Technologies • Crown Asia Chemicals Corporation (Crown Pipes) • Meralco Energy, Inc. • Sallan & Jocson Law Offices

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COVER STORY

E

lectricity within reach is an achieved goal that has been flowing on our powerlines today.

The success of different inventions and innovations of technology hitting the community is a result of electricity we consume at its finest.

However, electricity within our reach is taking a higher level to fulfil the drastic global challenges. The structure of this once achieved goal is making its way to be the new agent of clean, low carbon, and efficient energy system.

THE POWER OF CONVERGENCE With national targets to make renewable energy denting our country’s power supply, so does the challenges of intermittency, geography, infrastructure, and emission commitments. Will smartening up our power grids save our energy futures?

WORDS: John Carlos Manansala PHOTOS: Unsplash.com

Society and economy is dependent on the electricity. In fact, electricity is an essential weapon that is seemingly taken for granted on reaching the pinnacle of success. As the world moves toward the future, the compelling global challenges along with the severe changes of energy supply is rampant.

Centralized power The electricity structures or electric grids we currently have are designed around centralized power generation. Most electric grids are powered by conventional energy sources such as geothermal, hydro, coals and other fossil fuels built in areas far from its end users. From there, the electricity will be transported through long transmission lines to nearby communities where it will be distributed by the utility to customers. If the supply is interrupted, the whole network will be affected.

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However, as power generators come of age, it gradually declines in production to meet the rapidly growing demand of development.

Changing weather patterns and intensities also add up to the stresses of electric grid.

More so, customers (whether industrial, commercial, institutional, or residential) continuously demand for a better and faster quality of service restoration (in case of power interruptions) and lower price of electricity from the distributors.

The vital point is to have a leap of faith for the grids to be smarter, more modern and automated brought by different branches of engineering to create the smart grid.

Smart grids As the energy community paved its way to have partnership with information communication technology along with electricity infrastructure, smart grid was developed. From the word “smart” (adapting it from smart phones as “phones with built-in computer”), smart grid is distinct as “computerizing” the electric utility grid. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) defined smart grid as an automated, widely distributed energy delivered network characterized by two-way flow of electricity and information, capable of monitoring and responding to changes in everything from power plants to customer preferences to individual appliances.

It consists of components to gather data such as smart utilities, smart meters, smart homes, and smart appliances; and networks that are working together to perform twoway communication. The current grid sends electricity from the providers to the consumers. But with smart grid, the electricity can be sent from both ends.

The lack of details on utilization of electricity makes the current electric grid no control over the course of electricity, thus unmanageable. With

the smart sensors and software that can be attached to the existing one, can now gather information about the power consumption or energy demand of its consumers on a given time at a given area.

One way The traditional power grids have a unidirectional flow from generation to transmission to distribution to the end-users. With this one waycommunication, inconveniences and conflicts arises. Considering the fact that most of the electric grid operates the old way (oneway), when disasters struck, the problem comes on the way. Imagine a community when the powerline breaks, the grid cannot provide electricity, resulting to disruption of

Smart way As the day goes by, the demand and cost of electricity also varies.

In a smart home that has smart appliances like washing machine and dishwashers, the consumers can smart their way by just adjusting their usage (whether elevate cooling temperatures or turn off idle appliances) and let the smart devices connected to theses appliances make the decision to make it functional when electricity rates go down.

These smart appliances do not make only decisions, it also reads, process, and track power consumption connected to its network. With this, CISCO Smart Grid estimated that a typical household bill may reduce to 1015 percent.

[Smart Grid] consists of components to gather data such as smart utilities, smart meters, smart homes, and smart appliances; and networks that are working together to perform two-way communication. household and economic activities.

Through the typical grid, returning the power may take time, but with the smart grid, power can be easily reroute and restoration comes in earliest time.

From different points of the power system, smart grid can distribute and transmit power and information back to transmission. Moreover, the electricity and information from different sources such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, solar panels, and other elements of micro-grids can also be sent to the distributors and vice-versa making it flexible and sufficient on the allocation of the supply of energy.

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It can also be used in businesses operating on longer hours. Large amount of electricity can be reduced when the demand is on its peak with the smart energy system management. Therefore, the amount of energy consumed by homes or by any business establishments can significantly decreases the peak period demands.

Supply and demand It is undeniable that smart grid electrifying its way toward the future grids and distributing different benefits not only economy but also on the society.

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COVER STORY

SMART CONVERGENCE How does the smart grid works? The old grid stays but with special devices that will enable system elements to ‘talk’ to each other (and sometimes decide) for the benefit of the end-user - whether it’s a home, commercial establishment, or a factory.

GRAPHICS: Justinberg Bantigue WORDS: Kaycee Victorio SOURCE: Environmental Defense Fund

2. THE GATEWAYS. Substation transformers reduce voltage from transmission to distribution levels. Distribution transformers further lower voltage to allow electricity flow to communities through wire networks. The same network feeds power back into the grid from locally produced energy (such as rooftop solar modules and wind turbines).

1. THE (CENTRAL) SOURCES. Electricity from power plants and renewable sources travels over high voltage wires to end-users.

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3. THE END-USERS. Homes (and businesses) produce as well as consume electricity through renewable technologies (e.g. solar, wind, biomass, fuel cell). Power sources, appliances, and car batteries communicates to improve efficiency, cut costs and reduce environmental impacts.

4. THE SENSORS. Smart meters measure, in real time, power bought from and sold to the grid, letting consumers (and on some cases, the same sensors) control energy use.

5. THE (LOCAL) SOURCES. Renewable energy generation powers the home (or businesses) or is sold to the grid when prices peak. Energy stored in the battery of a plug-in car or separate electric energy storage systems can power the end-user, or help stabilize the grid.

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COVER STORY By sending information and managing the supply and demand of electricity from both utility and consumer, smart grid can greatly enhance the independence and increase the efficiency of energy supply. Smart grid is changing the power system to decentralization.

From centralized power systems that are mainly dependent on fossil fuels only, smart grid is integrating various renewable energy such as wind and solar energy.

For example, a simple household may or may not directly buy electricity from the provider. By installing their own rooftop solar panels, consumers can have their own supply as well. Also, if the production of electricity from this solar panels is quite abundant, they can even sell it to the grid (when the supply is tight) or store it in electrical energy storage systems (EESS).

Electric vehicle or e-vehicle is not only a typical way of transportation.

Powered by electricity and have a battery of its own to where it stores energy produced, it can also be electricity source. And when the consumer wants to sell the ample supplied energy, business also comes in the way.

Led by Meralco As the smart grid continuously seeks the answers for the higher demand of electricity, different countries from all sides of the globe along with variety of private agencies governing technologies have begun to

capitalize. According to the World Economic Forum, China and United States are investing US$ 7.3 billion and US$ 4.5 billion on greening their respective grids. Countries like Japan, South Korea and Australia are also doing their initiatives on propagation of smart grid. The Philippines is currently making its move to put its head on the game to be led by Meralco.

Being the largest electric distribution utility in the Philippines, having 113 years in service with 5.9 million customers is supervising the operation towards a better electric grid. According to Ramon Asana, Network Technology Strategy of Meralco, they are designing Meralco Smart Grid Program called Advance Network Automation (ANA) and Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI).

Advance Network Automation (ANA) is for smart devices and systems over the distribution network that aims to observe and handle assets and network operations live to report varying loads, generation, and outage events. Under ANA are projects that focuses on improvement customer services like faster electricity restoration when power is interrupted; betterment of consumers’ situational awareness to be smart and wise; reduction of peak demand when truly needed; efficiency of grid operation and enhanced quality; and reduction of system installation costs through using of fiber optics instead of bundles of wires.

On the other hand, Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a system of smart meters, communications infrastructure, and back-end systems that enables two-way communication between utilities and customers. With this remote reading, disconnection, and reconnection; outage and meter irregularity detection; and consumption monitoring and reporting mechanism from utility to the customers can be done or vice versa.

Moreover, Asana said that Meralco is planning to implement their first pilot of smart grid on the incoming years at selected areas of Metro Manila. Along with their engineers behind the researches and studies, they are expecting that in foreseeable future this smart grid will be a collective effort from different sides of institutions especially the government and private sectors.

Today, the integration of smart grid seems like a long challenging drive toward a unidirectional terminus that seems to defy the long cycle of typical electric grid. Variety of pilot projects are currently on its way setting the path toward a smarter world.

Because after all, whenever different elements of the power system converge as one, everything seems to be possible. And luckily, it includes smarter grid for a brighter future. A smarter grid that will be a new agent of clean, low carbon, and efficient energy system. ▌

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EE WOMAN

a

s

he makes the bestoutof it!

Sheena Bata talks about why court rooms and kitchens loss is an EE gain t 31, Sheena Bata seems to be on the top of the world. She describes herself as a “skilled manager” with a broad range of experience in project management, energy audit, energy management system, air quality, and equipment maintenance management. With Construction Management degree, energy management system and BERDE certification, and Chinese language diploma, She takes it all to be in the man’s world of EE. And she doesn’t stop there. The Electrical Engineer sit downs with this woman from Lyceum of the Philippines to know what it talks to be like her. We would like to know more about you by answering these questions:

Call her Sheen or She I believe that life is Life is too short, so always makes the best out of it People don't know that I am lazy sometimes, I can sleep up to 10 to 12 hours (para makabawi sa mga sleepless nights) I am really good at I am not sure what my talents are, but I can sing and dance (maybe just ballroom) I am an EE practitioner because during my 3rd year second semester as an EcE students in college, I realized that I do good with all circuits subjects and appreciate EE subjects.

And have this realization that as a female, there will be fewer female EE practitioner so less competition with girls but will always be a challenge for me to excel and work with male professionals If I am not an EE practitioner, probably I am a lawyer or a chef

She is known for her athletic physique.

She loves to run (check her out in the next fun run in BGC) yet abruptly have to slow down to give way for her second baby.

When woman works it is full dedication to do her work that gives finest result (although I do not like comparing man's work, but maybe just for this purpose...)

Life is always different in construction because you also need to adapt and learn all other trades (MEPFS even civil and structural). You can specialize with EE but it is also good to learn the whole concept of project management so to be able to manage efficiently the project you're handling.

At the end of the day your relationship with God and your Family are more important than anything else. Title's and achievements are nothing without Him (God) and a family As an electrical engineer, what do you think is your biggest contribution to the profession? Taking into next step as a professional looking towards energy efficiency and energy management and sharing my knowledge to all professionals and not just EEs Do you agree that females have a disadvantage in the Electrical profession? No, I shifted to my EE career because I look at it as an advantage, to show that EE is never just for "boys". Girls can also do good, one just need to know what he or she wants and understand his or her own potential, explore on new things and never get tired to continue to learn and of course share it with others. ▌

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TRAVEL Performers in their colorful costumes dance under the rain during the Street Dancing Competition.

amboanga City, also known as Asia’s Latin City is the entry point to Zamboanga Peninsula and the BaSulTa (Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-tawi) archipelago. We know Zamboanga from books that tell stories about small colorful boats called the vinta and for its Spanish-laced dialect called the Chabacano. Unfortunately, the city is linked with a lot of negative publicity due to armed conflicts in the city and neighboring provinces. Zamboanga is a city that your mother would not allow you to visit. But setting aside the undesirable image that some sensationalized news has made, Zamboanga is oozing with culture and beauty. Every October, the entire city explodes with colors to celebrate the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival in honor of Nuestra Señora la Virgin del Pilar. The month long celebration is jam-packed with activities that would entertain the public and famous tourist spots will amaze you in between.

To address safety concerns from spectators, the city government went all out to secure the entire city. Police presence was intensified with uniformed men roaming around the city leaving no stone unturned. As part of the security measures, caps that may conceal the faces

and backpacks that may carry explosive devices were prohibited during events. Cell phone signals were also jammed during the major events. These safety measures were hard to live by at first but public safety is paramount to enjoy the fiesta.

The festivities opened with the Bandoreal, a communitybased street dancing competition that highlighted the tapestry of culture in Zamboanga. Compared to other street dances, the costumes during the Bandoreal are more rustic. Ordinary household objects such as sacks and curtains are turned into costumes by the community themselves. Routines are choreographed by local talents and dancers comes from all walks of life. Unlike regular street dances that are celebrated for a patron saint, the Bandoreal is participated by different religions as a testament to the unity of a diverse community.

Another highlight of the festival is the Mascota competition participated by local designers featuring Spanish-inspired dresses which are uniquely Zamboangueño. Patterned from indigenous tribes of Mindanao (Yakan, Tausug, Sama Badjao, Subanen, T’boli, Tiruray, etc.), were incorporated in the six essential parts

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Colors & Culture of Hermosa Festival

A Feast at Asia’s Latin City of Zamboanga WORDS AND PHOTOS: Ulysses John Almocera

of the Mascota: (1) corpiño (chemise), (2) candongga (panuelo), (3) renggue (upper body), (4) sobre falda (tapis), (5) cola (the lower body), (6) enaguas (inner lining). Beautiful muses elegantly paraded the creations of the designers during the presentation night.

The most flocked event is probably the Vinta Regatta in RT Lim Boulevard. More than 200 vintas clustered on the beach like butterflies fluttering their vibrant wings as it glide with the waves. Local boat men pushed and paddle these boats to win the top prize.

Vintas are rare to see nowadays as fishermen prefer engines than paddles. It is only during the festival that these icons of Zamboanga can be seen sailing in the sea and the event is a feast for shutterbugs!

A festival is not complete without the street dancing competition. Delegates from different schools and barangays performed their routines in unison while parading the streets of the city. It rained during the parade but it did not stop the dancers from swaying their hips to the beat of the drums while shouting “Viva! Nuestra Señora la Virgin del Pilar!”. The costumes were elaborate and grand similar to the other festivals of the country. Vinta sails, curacha and Spanish dresses were the inspiration for the costumes worn by the dancers. All of the dancers follow their festival queens who lead the pack as she dances with the image of Virgin of the Pilar.

IIEE ZAMBASULTA Chapter- Western Mindanao State University, College of Engineering and Technology (EE Department), Normal Road, Baliwasan, Zamboanga City. Contact number: (062) 9911040 loc. 4. Contact Person: Alex Acosta, Chapter President, 09176263852 or Lovey Joy Perez 09421848417 Women wearing their vibrant "sablay" as they participate in the Bandoreal Competition.

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TRAVEL One might think that there are a lot of restrictions when touring Zamboanga. I am often asked by backpackers about the dress code and decorum in the city.

Zamboanga feels just like any other city in the country.

You can walk in the streets any time of the day, especially during the festival. You might be amazed of how vibrant the culture is on this part of the county. All of the noise, hustle and bustle from different activities during the fiesta manifests the devotion of Zamboanguenos to the Nuestra Señora la Virgin del Pilar. Lighting candles at Fort Pilar is customary. It is during the fiesta that the shrine is at its most beautiful. Adorned by thousands of flowers and other decorations, the rustic bricks dating several hundred years looked. Majestic and divine, Fort Pilar is overwhelmingly striking as thousands of faithful devotees offer their prayers and flock the shrine.

Above: Fort Pilar adorned with thousands of flowers.

Below: The iconic vinta, a small boat with a vivid sail.

But don’t be surprised if you hear Muslim prayers echoing from a nearby mosque because the fort is located near a Muslim community. Diversity is one of the best things in Zamboanga. Different tribes and cultures from the Zamboanga peninsula and Sulu archipelago consider the city as a center of commerce. That is very evident if you visit the Barter Center in Canelar where local and imported goods are sold in very low prices.

Malaysian noodles, chinese luncheon meat, batik malong, cotton scarves, and imported chocolates that are great pasalubongs are available at the Barter Center.

For the culture savvy, the Yakan village is also a go-to tourist spot. A small complex in Calarian, Zamboanga City, the village houses traditional weavers from the Yakan tribe of Basilan. Intricate, colorful and symmetrical patterns from nature are turned into beautiful fabrics.

A visit in Zamboanga is not complete without soaking your feet in the pink sands of Sta. Cruz Island. Powdery white with a blush of pink from crushed red corals, the island is the most visited tourist attraction in the city because of its proximity and accessibility. For waterfallchasers, the curtain-like cascades of Merloquet falls is definitely a must-see. Located more than two hours away from the city, the commute is definitely worth it when you see the enchanting three-tiered beauty.

It is a challenge to advertise and promote tourism in Zamboanga because of how people from outside perceive out beloved city. But as I always say, “you don’t need a lot of courage to visit Zamboanga, you just need an open mind”. Rich in natural wonders and a culture filled with colors, why don’t you give Zamboanga a try? ▌

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AGIL TRI-MONO

MODULAR UPS Module POWER 20 kVA - 20 kW

INPUT 3x400 Vac + N OUTPUT 3x400 Vac + N

20 kVA = 20 kW module

AGIL is a compact and scalable UPS providing a pure sine wave AC supply 20-640 kVA

Selectivity Versatile charging Battery sustainability Harshest AC input conditions High efficiency, certified by SGS The “Twin Sine Innovation” (TSI) technology ensures independent “hot pluggable and hot swap” modules that include virtually all functions of a conventional UPS (AC/DC, DC/AC, battery charger, Static Switch), eliminating all potential single points of failure.

Up to 32 modules can be installed in parallel to bring the full output power potential to 640 kVA. TELECOM

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EENSTRUCTIONS

W I R E L E S S L Y WORDS: Ralph Lawrence Calibo PHOTO: Gelyn Lee

Many of us are astonished of a wireless future - no more tangled wires for mobile phones, internet connections, digital televisions, etc. With demonstrations of wireless chargers for cellular phones and television sets, let’s try to build a wireless power kit that can fit into your fist and light a bulb.

4/ Connect one end of the transmitter coil with the transistor’s collector rod, the other end of the coil to the base rod.

+ HOW IT WORKS

6/ Place the coils next to other. Once the LED lights up, adjust the distance of the coils. Ideally, as the coils get farther to each other, the LED light dims.

Effective wireless power transfer utilizes resonant inductive coupling, the same principles on how transformer works. In the kit, the transistor amplifies the magnetic field in the transmitter coil as the receiver coil collects and converts the electromagnetic field into electricity again thus powering up the load circuit (whether an LED bulb or a charger circuit). It also acts as a step up transformer since more coil on the receiver will increase the voltage being converted by the receiver coil. + YOU’LL BE NEEDING • 2N3904 Transistor • Magnet wires (Gauge 24, 26, 28) • LED bulb (red) • Connecting wires (red, black) • USB cable (Micro USB) • 300 pF ceramic disk capacitor • 1.5V battery • Lipstick canister • Lighter • Soldering lead • Soldering Iron • Pliers

5/ Connect positive terminal of battery to the base rod, negative terminal to the emitter rod. Solder all connections

Same procedure goes for wireless chargers. Instead of 15 loops, make two 30 loops with wire extent in between for the transmitter circuit. Make 30 loops of wire for the receiver circuit as well. Cut the USB cable and connect the USB female plug to the extent wire of the transmitter (positive) and emitter terminal of the transistor (negative).

In the receiver coil, connect again 300 pF capacitor for longer distance range. Connect micro USB on the both ends of receiver coil. Then solder for better connection, plug it in an adaptor and enjoy charging your phone wirelessly.

+ WHAT TO DO 1/ Using the lipstick canister, make 30 loops of wire for the receiver circuitry. Remove the lipstick canister and make a knot lock for the loop to be fastened intact. Burn both ends of the coil with the lighter to remove the enamel and expose the copper wire.

2/ Connect the LED bulb at both ends of the receiver coil together with the 300 pF capacitor.

3/ Make 15 coil loops in the lipstick canister for the transmitter circuit.

Extent at least 3 cm of magnet wire on the fifteenth loop then continue the looping of wire make another 15 coil loops of wire in combination 30 coil loops with a extent wire at the middle of it. Knot lock the coil loop to be intact. Remove enamel at both coil ends.

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FEATURE

INTRODUCTORY WORDS: Ynna Marie Cruz ILLUSTRATION: April3rd Zamora 38 | VOLUME XLV ISSUE 2016

IIEE.ORG.PH

R

emember those moments right before an important exam? It can be nerve-wracking counting the days and there are all sorts of scenarios that may unfold but the most important query is, "How will you pass?" And surely there are all sorts of answers.

#PasadoSaBoard

The good thing is, it helps to think that it is your game to play; your rules, your techniques. You can decide on what is the most comfortable, affordable and doable way that would lead you to the best result. All the same, we asked around so here are more than a couple of things you can take note of and try!

Aral in the morning, dota in the evening #Strong -Miko Zabat

Relax while studying. Mas madaling mag absorb pag relax ang utak. Ang ‘di ko makalimutang tanong dyan: “Ilang ipin ng lagare daw an pinakamagandang gamitin sa pagputol ng pipe para sa mga wires?”

-Alriz Latorre Top 9 RME last September 2016 po ako. Pumasok din sa review center pero maliban doon humanap din ako ng karagdagang review materials at paulit-ulit ko po itong binasa. Nananalangin din po ako.

-Tong Esmaya I broke up with my girlfriend before I went to Manila for the review (para walang istorbo) Then I drink brandy night before exam. Ayun! pasado! And just always pray.

-Andrew Olaso Baeta My preparation is simple. I just interviewed and sorted ideas from previous passers of RME about what came out in the exam. After collecting ideas I searched for review materials that have a big percentage of items that will come out in the exam. Particular review materials that can be used are Journeyman, Rojas, PEC, Ultimate8Apps, etc. Discipline in yourself on what to review or tackle for technical subjects or the PEC. Also do series of reading and familiarization of electrical standards, PEC, and others. Lastly, be confident in taking the RME Board Exam.

-Cedrick Rabacal

Practice solving board problems within the time limit.

Do it for each subject. To relax during board exam, try closing your eyes and think of blue colors.

-Nardo Mendez

I always motivate myself. Nagse-set ako ng goals everyday. Bawal magpuyat. Kung hindi na kaya, tulog muna. Hindi ako nahihiyang magtanong sa mga classmate at reviewmates ko kapag hindi ko alam ang problem. Pamilya ko at yung mga taong nagtitiwala sa akin ang naging inspirasyon ko and syempre always thank and ask for the guidance of God. REE2014 -Arvin Giann Sunga

Wag stress-in ang sarili. Hayaan mo lang na yung problem ang mai-stress sa’yo.

-Ben J Partible For me, the most important thing to do is not only the preparation you've done but also what's your condition during the exam. Dapat you are intellectually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually ready.

1. No girlfriend muna para walang heart-breaks.

2. No communication with parents muna.

3. Kumain ako ng dark chocolate na Toblerone (isang pack) before and during exam. Narelax utak ko dito at hindi ako inantok nung hapon.

4. Avoid drinking energy drinks like Cobra na sobrang taas ng caffeine. Baka lalo kang kabahan.

5. Avoid drinking milk 3-4 hours before exam and during exam.

6. Isipin mo lagi na pagkatapos nitong exam, nasa top ten ka.

Kung hindi, at least pumasa ka.

-Benj Alvarez Capistrano

Wag mo pilitin magaral kung tinatamad ka. Eventually sisipagin ka din at dun madaming papasok na ideas sayo.

-Kevin Mark Andal Carandang

Magsimba. Pray and give thanks to God. Then wag umabsent sa review center. Wag magpuyat para fresh lagi ang isip.

Gawing inspirasyonang pamillya. Magbasa ng mga books para sa mga objective type of questions then alamin at pagaralan yung trend nung mga ibibigay nila sa exam.

-Dexter Aquino Vergara

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FEATURE

arriving from the Top

The Electrical Engineer sits down with September 2016 REE exam 1st placer Alfred ‘Jong’ Isaac Ajo, a graduate of the Cebu Institute of Technology University, on his expectations to top the national test for electrical engineers and the promising future ahead of him.

WORDS: Ynna Cruz

ong, 22, is from a family of accomplished individuals where he was raised by his mother who is an educator and his father, civil engineer. Not long ago, his older sister Rebekah Charisse also passed the licensure exam for mechanical engineers last March.

Jong admits that it was through his parents’ guidance that he has been able to establish his study habits leading to what he could accomplish so far.

Still, Alfred shares that the best and challenging times that he had with his friends also played a role in passing the exam. Working hard while enjoying yourself makes a perfect combination. Hence, with the right amount of fun and dedication together with the right people, success is within an arm’s reach.

Jong, alone scored an average of 92.40 percent among the 4,000 graduates who passed the exam.

If you weren’t an engineer, I will be a programmer The best subject in school I had was Three-Phase AC Circuits Best advice you can share Do the best you can in everything.

Greatest influences in your life are from my mother For pleasure reading, I enjoy Olympus heroes books by Rick Riordan Biggest dream is to travel around the world.

In passing the exam, I choose to study to learn, passing the exam will follow.

Now, I am employed in a distribution utility as probee planning engineer.

Next is to take up a master’s degree Who knows that someday I would like to be a prolific electrical engineer who can actively contribute in the continuing transformation of the Philippines’ transmission and distribution systems to smart grids.

In listening to music and food, I'm enjoying the moments of studying together with my batchmates and takes pride of helping some in passing the board exam. ▌

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SIDE STORY

J

RETURNING WITH A PURPOSE

ose B. Cruz Jr. has been an institution in the world of engineering. For several decades, Joe, as his colleagues and family call him, has been known for being theorist and educator both here and abroad. From graduating as the first summa cum laude of the UP Diliman in 1953 to becoming a Master of Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1956, he later graduated with PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1959.

After working in two other universities in the US, he then retired as the Dean of the College of Engineering at Ohio State University to return to the Philippines in 2010 for a purpose of helping various universities for restructuring their engineering programs and teaching their faculty to become at par internationally.

Joe is constantly driven to learn and contribute and continues to transcend expectations to this day. Just recently, Joe conquered the PEE exam last September as the topnotcher. Despite his accomplishments and recognitions abroad, he shares that he wanted to attain the highest EE license in his own country.

“Although I topped the Board Exam (No. 1) for Assistant Electrical Engineers in 1953, I was too young to take my oath. Because I was in the US since 1954, I only received my REE license in 2011 when I was 79, when I returned to the Philippines. I wanted a PEE license but they told me I needed 4 years experience in the Philippines.

So I waited until 2016,” Jose recounts.

The Electrical Engineer asks the 84-year old PEE five questions on what makes an electrical engineer ‘professional’.

What were you like as a student?

Studying was highest priority but I enjoyed my extra-curricular activities and relaxation.

How would you describe yourself as a professional? I am focused on my contributions to society as an engineer and educator.

What is the greatest challenge you have overcome? Strong opposition of my wife for me to take the PEE exam in the Philippines, at 84 years old, after I already retired three times, with two PE licenses in the US, and taking precious time that I could spend with her instead.

What is your greatest achievement by far? As a professor and researcher at several major universities in the US, I have been mentor and advisor of about 50 research students who received their PhDs in electrical engineering over a span of 50 years. Many are leaders in various parts of the world. Thousands have benefitted from my books.

What is the most important life lesson that you would like to share? Do your best, keep trying until you achieve success, but keep going. ▌

AUTOMATION SPECIALISTS AND POWER EXPONENTS, INC.

CONTACT US

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VOLUME XLV 3rdISSUE 2016 | 41

TECHNICAL

FOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY ir. Bert Brouwers (Egemin Consulting N.V.) | Bruno De Wachter, Angelo Baggini (Reviewers) | Cu0194 | June 6, 2014 SECOND OF TWO PARTS If an earth fault current is present in a TT network, it I 2). During overload conditions, the additional heat may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a hazard generation results in elevated temperature, resulting to persons yet unable to guarantee the triggering of in risk of damage to the cable insulation and a fire short circuit protective systems in due time. The basis hazard. (For example, at 10% overload, heat generation of safety for indirect touch needs to be created by rises 21%; at 100% overload, heat generation rises to the introduction of a residual current device (RCD) 400%) The temperature rise is not instantaneous, due of appropriate sensitivity.

Timely detection of the to of thesufficient heat capacitance of both cable anda surrounding If an earth fault current is present in a TT network, it may be magnitude to constitute hazard to potentially dangerous earth fault current, followed by materials. Thus, the overload protection does not have persons yet unable to guarantee the triggering of short circuit protective systems in due time. The basis of power supply disconnection, eliminates the risk for to react instantaneously. Virtually all overload protective safety indirect touch needs to be of athermal residual current device of indirectfor touch electrification.

Although it iscreated possibleby the introduction systems (fuses, relays, et cetera) are(RCD) engineered that the RCDsensitivity. will react sufficiently fast to limit the potentially with a declining time as followed a functionby of power the appropriate Timely detection of the dangerous earthreaction fault current, consequences of a direct touch electrification incident, overload ratio.

Common operating times range supply disconnection, eliminates the risk for indirect touch electrification. Although it is possible that the from RCD it must not be considered a primary safeguard for these tens of seconds to a few hours. will react sufficiently fast to limit the consequences of a direct touch electrification incident, it must not be scenarios. considered a primary safeguard for these scenarios.

The rise in heat generation during short circuit condition Short Circuit and Overload Protection is dramatically higher compared to overload. In common Short circuit and overload protection of electrical applications, short circuit current to nominal current SHORT CIRCUIT AND OVERLOAD PROTECTION circuits plays an important role in risk reduction as it ratios are in the range of 10 to 1,000. This results in Short and overload electrical an important role in riskheat reduction as it relates relatescircuit to thermal hazards. protection Additionally,ofshort circuitcircuits plays an increase of instantaneous generation of 2 to 6 to thermal limits hazards.

Additionally, short circuit protection limits consequences of high mechanical forces protection the consequences of high mechanical ordersthe of magnitude. forces occurring to magnetic in circuit short circuit occurring due todue magnetic effectseffects in short conditions. Short circuit protection furthermore reduces risks conditions. Short circuit protection furthermore reduces Mechanical forces generated between current carrying of indirect touch in TN type networks. risks of indirect touch in TN type networks. conductors also evolve proportional to the square of the current. In most applications, these are negligible The heat generated in become a cableaismajor proportional to at at nominal current, but design issue square of the current flowing through the cable short circuit current.

). During overload conditions, the

It is immediately clear that for a technical component additional heat generation results in elevated (cable, bus bar, switch gear, or other device) to survive temperature, resulting in related risk ofmechanical damage to the such a heat surge and the stress, the time required to switch off the current needs toatbe cable insulation and a fire hazard.

(For example, very short.

Common operating times range a few 10% overload, heat generation rises 21%; from at 100% milliseconds (about a quarter cycle of the AC waveform) overload, generation rises to 400%) The up to a fewheat seconds.

temperature rise is not instantaneous, due to the Shortcapacitance Circuit Protection Indirect heat of bothand cable and Touch surrounding As previously indicated, the short circuit protective materials. Thus, the overload protection does not systems in a TN network are important in protecting have to react instantaneously.

Virtually(For all the overload against indirect contact electrification. sake of completeness, it should bethermal mentioned thatetthe same protective systems (fuses, relays, cetera) principle applies in part to TT networks, but is not are engineered with a declining reaction time asaa sufficiently reliable basis for ensuring safety.) function of the overload ratio. Common operating times range that fromistens of seconds to acable few hours.

One factor determined in the design

calculations of an electrical installation is the theoretical

contact will occur during The risevoltage in heatthat generation duringearth shortfault circuit conditions in an electric apparatus supplied by circuit condition is dramatically higher comparedtheto under consideration. This voltage is the result of the overload. common applications, circuit earth fault In current and the resistance ofshort the protective Figure 3 – Typical circuit breaker characteristic current to nominal current ratios are in the range earth return path for the fault current.

Since the PEof Figure 3 – Typical circuit breaker characteristic The heat generated in a cable is proportional to square return path is well defined in TN networks, this 10 to 1,000. This results in an increasecanofbe of the current flowing through the cable (Q = Rcable x calculated quite accurately. instantaneous heat generation of 2 to 6 orders of magnitude. rd 42 | VOLUME XLV 3generated ISSUE 2016 IIEE.ORG.PH Mechanical forces between current carrying conductors also evolve proportional to the square of the current. In most applications, these are negligible at nominal current, but become a major design issue at

One factor that is determined in the cable design calculations of an electrical installation is the theoretical contact voltage that will occur during earth fault conditions in an electric apparatus supplied by the circuit under consideration. This voltage is the result of the earth fault current and the resistance of the protective earth return path for the fault current. Since the PE return path is well defined in TN networks, this can be If the theoretical contact voltage is calculated to be If it can be shown—from the cable design calculation calculated quite accurately. below the extra-low voltage limits (see section Extraand the technical characteristics of the short circuit

low voltage systems: SELV, PELV (FELV)), there is no real protection—that the circuit will be disconnected from If the theoretical voltage is calculated to be below extra-low voltage (seehighest sectionoperating Extra-low danger for personscontact touching the device housing during thethe mains in a time shorterlimits than the earth fault.

From the point of view of human protection, time that is allowed for the calculated touch voltage, voltage systems: SELV, PELV (FELV)), there is no real danger for persons touching the device housing during such a situation can be tolerated for an indefinite period then the risk is assumed to be sufficiently reduced. earth of time.fault. From the point of view of human protection, such a situation can be tolerated for an indefinite period of time.

The following short example illustrates the above Figure: If the calculated contact voltage is above the ELV limits, For a given electrical circuit (AC powered), the calculated there is a genuine hazard for persons touching the is 100V at an for earth fault current of about If the calculated contact voltage is above the ELV limits,contact there isvoltage a genuine hazard persons touching the device. Thus, the risk must be reduced to an acceptable 15 times the nominal circuit current. The environmental device.

Thus, the risk must reduced an acceptable level. This isare accomplished by switching the level.

This is accomplished by be switching theto faulty circuit circumstances such that a person’s skin will befaulty dry circuit off sufficiently fast. A potentially existing for a very short presence time results in a small off sufficiently fast. A potentially dangerous dangerous situation situation (indoor application, no special of water).

The existing for a very short time results in a small probability AC dry curve (continuous line in Figure 4) intersects probability of an incident to actually happening. Limited exposure time to a significant hazard can the be of an incident to actually happening. Limited exposure 100V mark at approximately 430ms. Thus, any short considered a limitedhazard residual time to a significant canrisk. be considered a limited circuit device that will disconnect in less than 430ms residual risk. will create a compliant and safe situation with respect From scientific research and historical analysis of accidents, it is known voltage exceeding ELV to indirect touchthat electrification.

This couldthe e.g. belimits a From scientific research and historical analysis of C-curve miniature circuit breaker (virtually instantaneous for very short periods can be survived without serious consequences. As the voltage rises, the time a person accidents, it is known that voltage exceeding the ELV operation for fault currents over 10 times the nominal can be without This knowledge is at the basis of the definition of limits forexposed very short periodsserious can be consequences survived withoutdecreases. current). conventional relative touch limit curves serious consequences.

As the voltage voltage rises, the timeasa a function of time, as shown in Figure 4. Please note that person can be exposed without serious consequences Insulation, Reinforced Insulation the various implementations of these curves in national electrical safety regulations differ. decreases. This knowledge is at the basis of the and Double Insulation definition of conventional relative touch voltage limit The primary function of electrical insulation is to separate If it can be shown—from the cable design calculation and the technical characteristics of the short circuit curves as a function of time, as shown in Figure 4. Please current carrying conductive elements from other parts, protection—that theimplementations circuit will be disconnected from mains in a time shorter than the highest operating note that the various of these curves in the components, and elements. national electrical safety regulations differ. time that is allowed for the calculated touch voltage, then the risk is assumed to be sufficiently reduced.

Figure 4 – Relative touch voltage limit as a function of protective system operating time Figure 4 – Relative touch voltage limit as a function of protective system operating time

IIEE.ORG.PH Publication No Cu0194 Issue Date:

June 2014

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TECHNICAL Since the insulation of current carrying elements prevents contact with the current carrying parts, it is immediately clear that insulation has an impact on safety.

By convention, various levels of insulation are defined, as shown below.

publication of the fifth edition of NFPA70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace) in 1995 which introduced the concept of arc flash hazard. The interest in the subject, and development of mitigating strategies in the US was further encouraged by the publication of

Table 3 – Terms and definitions relative to electric insulation Term

Definition

Insulation

All the materials and parts used to insulate conductive elements of a device

Functional insulation

Insulation between conductive parts, necessary for the proper functioning of the equipment

Basic Insulation

Insulation of hazardous live-parts which provides basic protection (this concept does not apply to insulation used exclusively for functional purposes)

Supplementary insulation

Independent insulation applied in addition to basic insulation, for fault protection

Double insulation

Insulation comprising both basic insulation and supplementary insulation

Reinforced insulation

Insulation of hazardous live-parts which provides a degree of protection against electric shock equivalent to double insulation (reinforced insulation may comprise several layers which cannot be tested singly as basic insulation or supplementary insulation)

Whether or not any of the various types of insulation (as defined in the electrotechnical standards in Table 3) can considered for safety purposes depends upon circumstances and environment Functional insulation must not be considered a safety feature.

Basic insulation can be adequate in situations where contact (either direct or indirect) is not expected, or where it can be shown that the effects of contact with current carrying parts do not present a hazard (e.g. PELV/ SELV systems).

In situations where failure of the basic insulation results in an immediate hazardous situation, basic insulation alone definitely does not bring about adequate risk reduction. In such cases, double or reinforced insulation can be an adequate solution. Typical examples are handheld devices and tools, where insulation breakdown would immediately expose the operator of the tool to the mains voltage.

Arc Flash Protection The previous sections focus on prevention of electrification by contact with current carrying parts, or prevention of the effects of heating of current carrying parts. Standards addressing electric shock and fire prevention have existed for over a century. Scientific and experimental work underpinning these standards dates back to the discovery of electricity.

As the power levels and current magnitudes have increased over time, arc flash became “that other electrical hazard”. Some early scientific work on the subject was conducted in the 1960s and 1970s.

Widespread industrial interest in the subject only emerged in the mid-nineties, and was mainly due to the

IEEE1584 Guide for Performing Arc Flash Calculations” in 2000.

On the international level, some IEC standards concerning arc flash have been published in recent years. These have included the requirements and test methods for protective clothing (IEC 6148-1 and 2, 2007, 2009) and requirements for arc fault detection devices (2013). Further standards are under development and expected to be published in 2014 and 2015.

The experience with arc flash standardization is very limited (at best two decades) compared to prevention of electric shock. It is clear that methods and techniques for arc flash protection have not yet reached the same level of maturity and general acceptance as prevention of electrocution and fire.

The current state of the art in arc flash protection consists in a combined approach.

The first step is a risk analysis, in particular conducting an arc flash study of the electric network. The aim of such a study is to determine the amount of incident energy that could be released for each busbar in the network, taking into account all relevant switching scenarios. This comes down to calculation of the arc fault current for each busbar in every selected switching scenario. The calculations at first sight resemble classic short circuit calculations (often designated as bolted fault). There is, however, an important difference: the arc itself has impedance. The arc impedance is difficult to predict.

At best, estimates of minimal and maximal value can be obtained in real life situations. The impact of the arc impedance can be significant, especially in low voltage distribution systems. Low voltage system arc fault currents are often only about half the bolted short circuit current. In many cases, this renders the ordinary

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short circuit protection devices totally inadequate, since reaction times increase with lower fault currents. The minimum fault value is required to develop a protection system able to detect arc faults reliably. The maximum fault value is required for construction of equipment able to withstand the consequences.

A protection strategy is developed based on the information from the arc flash study. Generally, the strategy will encompass a number of techniques such as: • Arc flash containment/arc-resistant equipment: switch elements, switch gear, or switch gear assemblies are constructed to be able to withstand the energy release and limit the effects to the space inside the casing or containment. Sufficient attention must be given to redirecting the blast energy to a safe location.

• Current limiting fuses: the current limiting characteristic of the fuse significantly reduces the maximum fault value. However, detecting the minimum fault value can prove very challenging.

• Arc flash detection and high-speed switching: the occurrence of an arc flash is detected, either by specifically configured relays recognizing an arc fault current profile, by optical (UV) sensors, or by a combination of both. Upon detection, an upstream (high-speed) breaker is tripped. The incident energy is limited through limitation of the arc flash duration.

• Arc flash quenching: a (power electronic) device is tripped upon detection of an arc flash that creates a controlled short circuit of the busbar. This effectively deflects the energy from the arc and gives rise to a normal short circuit capable of tripping the classic overcurrent protective devices. The use of a quenching device combined with current limiting fuses often provides interesting options.

• Remote operation: remotely operating switches (and even remote racking in LV motor control centers) moves persons away from the danger zone • Strict application of safe work procedures: limiting live work to the absolute minimum clearly reduces exposure of persons to the potential hazards.

• Personal protective equipment is self-evident for those situations where exposure of persons cannot be avoided, including the use of arc flash protective clothing, face shield, gloves, et cetera.

• Labeling and marking: clear indications of possible arc flash risks, in particular for scenarios involving maintenance of electrical cabinets and switch gear while the doors are open.

None of these techniques will succeed in making an installation arc flash safe by themselves. Containment of enclosed switch gear will provide sufficient safety in normal operation with closed covers, but what will happen with an open door during maintenance or inspection?

Only careful and prudent developed strategy implementing a well-engineered combination of techniques can create a sufficiently safe situation with

respect to arc flash hazards.

Overvoltage Protection Overvoltages can originate from various sources and scenarios. The appearance and effects of overvoltages can be equally diverse. A few typical examples are: • Malfunctioning of generating equipment (limited amplitude, possible prolonged presence) • Overvoltages induced by switching actions (significant amplitudes, relatively short durations) • High voltage ground faults • Atmospheric overvoltages (significant to extreme amplitudes, very short durations, indirect and direct lightning strikes) In general, most overvoltage scenarios do not present a direct safety hazard, but rather pose a threat to equipment integrity. Equipment compromised by overvoltage will often result in significant consequential hazards, such as: increased indirect touch hazard through unintentional electrification of objects, mechanical hazards due to unexpected behavior of faulty equipment and machinery, other non-electrical hazards through failure of critical systems.

A few noteworthy exceptions to this general statement are: • Overvoltage in SELV or PELV systems can be a direct hazard for persons working with the system • The effects of a direct lightning strike are of such an extreme nature that the consequence are likely to pose a direct hazard in itself • Voltage gradients due to dispersion surrounding earth connection systems during high voltage ground faults or lightning deflection can pose direct hazard known as step voltage and touch voltage The design of overvoltage protective systems is based on both the coordination of the maximal voltage surge that equipment can withstand, and methods to limit the voltage surges passed on to the equipment. This concept is known as Insulation Coordination.

The maximum allowable voltage surge is a function of the insulation levels of active components and the construction of the electrical equipment. Various types of equipment can have very different characteristics, e.g. electronics and power electronics are generally quite vulnerable with regard to overvoltage. The design of active parts and insulation determines the capability of the equipment to withstand overvoltage.

Limiting the voltage surges passed on to equipment can be achieved through a number of strategies. Some only apply in specific conditions, while others apply generally.

The essential strategies are: • Preventing atmospheric overvoltages from entering the electrical system. The use of lightning protective systems (LPS) to deflect a lightning strike via the air terminal of the LPS to the ground terminal of the LPS is the most representative example.

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Prevention of overvoltage originating from switching actions through the implementation of power electronic soft switching strategies (e.g. zerocrossing switching).

Automatic supply disconnection can be an effective strategy to protect against moderate over-voltages of relatively long duration, typically originating from power supply malfunctioning. Obviously, this is not an option in critical installations where power supply needs to be maintained.

Surge suppression, or the deflection of the excess energy associated with the surge by temporary shorting to earth. Typical components are arcing horns, spark gaps, voltage dependent resistors, and metal oxide varistors. They create a short-term low impedance connection from the protected lines to ground.

Engineering and construction of lightning protective systems is often considered an engineering domain in its own right.

The complexity of overvoltage protection can be equal to the complexity of the electrical network it aims to protect. Considering the public electricity transport and distribution grid, it is immediately clear that all involved parties need to contribute to insulation coordination.

This includes generator facilities, step up and step down transformation stations, the high voltage transmission network, and the low and medium voltage distribution network.

Static Electricity Countermeasures are required in applications where static electricity can introduce a hazard. The most common control measures are those that prevent generation of electrostatic charges by avoiding large non-conductive surfaces and allow electrostatic charges to dissipate by effective equipotential bonding and grounding of all conductive and dissipative (semiconductive) objects.

A conductive path is created to allow electrostatically generated charges to flow to earth. Note that in most applications, even relatively high impedance earth connections (magnitude 0.5 to 2 GOhm) will provide sufficient charge relaxation to prevent dangerous charge accumulation leading to spark discharge. This is in sharp contrast to the range of a few (to tens of) Ohms required for protection from indirect contact, as indicated above.

Some special applications do not allow effective equipotential bonding or elimination of large nonconductive surfaces. One of the most illustrative examples is unwinding of plastic foils. Especially in industrial size handling of plastic foil materials, extremely high charge generation is to be expected, since most plastic foils have extremely high surface resistances.

Since the highly insulating, fast moving foil cannot be connected to ground. In these applications, special countermeasures such as ionized air blow off guns and

air ionization bars are employed. These devices bring ionized air in contact with the charged surface, and allow the surface charges to dissipate into the ionized air layer.

Power Outage, Under Voltage, EMI, and Various Power Quality Issues and Disturbances At first sight, these phenomena are not generally associated with specific hazards or safety issues. On the contrary, the absence of electrical energy during a power outage might even be considered a safe situation.

However, when considered in a broader perspective, the possible hazards become clear. All deviations from normal operation can cause critical services to fail or trigger malfunctions and unexpected erroneous behavior of systems and machinery.

Power outage scenarios present a significant and pertinent risk, which is nevertheless often overlooked.

When the power is restored, all the connected systems, equipment, and machinery might suddenly restart, resulting in severe hazards.

The design for such systems and machinery should incorporate proper provisions for the detection of a deviant situation and elimination of the associated risk that could give rise to these types of hazards. Wellknown examples are automatic restart prevention for machinery and line RFI filtering for sensitive electronic equipment.

Conclusion

Electricity is a form of energy of major importance in modern society.

As with any form of energy, specific hazards are associated to the use of electricity. Compared to certain other forms of energy, electricity has the benefit that the occurrence of hazardous events is influenced relatively easily by proper design of the electrical systems and devices. This effectively reduces the risk to an acceptable level.

Various design and engineering solutions to improve the safety of electrical systems have been developed over time. These solutions have been captured in technical legislation, national and international standards, and sound engineering practices.

These are in fact a materialization of acquired knowledge and engineering expertise gathered since the initial discovery of electricity. Appropriate application of this expertise enables engineers to create safe electrical applications, without going through the hazards of trial and error.

The complexity of the electrical design and engineering domain has significantly increased due to the vast amount of documented knowledge accumulated. This enables electrical (power system) engineers to achieve profound insight into the scientific properties of electrical energy and to master the vital level of competence embedded in the present state of the art.

It also brings the tremendous advantage of virtually eliminating the need for trial and error experimentation for every single design, thus dramatically reducing the exposure of all involved persons to risk.

The examples covered in this Application Note clearly illustrate how electrical design requires continuous attention. This holds true not only for functional aspects such as delivering the right amount of power in a reliable way, but also in ensuring all of the related safety aspects. ▌

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