CEP Power Systems & Distribution Flashcards
6 cards from real CEP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CEP Power Systems & Distribution flashcards as text
What is the effect of a low power factor on an electrical distribution system?
Answer: It increases current draw for the same real power, increasing conductor losses
A low power factor means more current is required to deliver the same real power (watts), increasing I²R losses and potentially requiring larger conductors.
Which type of overcurrent protective device provides both overload and short-circuit protection and is commonly used in motor branch circuit applications?
Answer: Dual-element time-delay fuse
A dual-element time-delay fuse provides motor overload protection through its thermal element and short-circuit protection through its current-limiting element.
In a switchgear lineup, what is the function of a bus tie breaker?
Answer: To allow two bus sections to be electrically connected or isolated
A bus tie breaker connects two separate bus sections, allowing either section to supply loads normally fed by the other in case of a source failure.
What is the purpose of a surge protective device (SPD) Type 1 installed at the service entrance?
Answer: To divert lightning-induced surges and externally generated transients before they enter the building wiring
A Type 1 SPD is rated for installation at the service entrance and is designed to handle surge energy from external sources such as direct lightning strikes to the service.
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) switches a load from normal utility power to a generator. The ATS monitors utility voltage and frequency; it transfers when utility voltage drops below what typical threshold?
Answer: 80% of nominal
Most ATS units are factory-set to initiate generator startup and transfer when utility voltage drops below approximately 80% of nominal voltage.
In a radial distribution system, what is the primary disadvantage compared to a loop or ring bus arrangement?
Answer: A single fault on the feeder can cause a complete loss of power to all downstream loads
A radial system has no redundancy; if the single feeder supplying a section faults, all loads on that section lose power until the fault is cleared.