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What is Power Factor? Causes, Effects, and Methods of Improvement

  Introduction Welcome, future engineers! If you have ever looked at an electricity bill from an industrial unit or read the nameplate of a large motor, you have probably come across the term "Power Factor." It’s a crucial concept in electrical engineering that bridges your theory exams and real-world industrial practice. Understanding it not only helps you score marks but also saves lakhs of rupees in electricity costs. Let’s demystify this important topic together. What is Power Factor? Definition In the simplest terms,  Power Factor (PF)  is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being used. Think of it like this: When you buy a glass of cold drink, you pay for the full glass (what you get). But what if it’s half-filled with foam? You paid for the full volume, but you only get half the actual drink. Similarly, in an AC circuit, not all the power supplied by the electricity board (called Apparent Power) is converted into useful work (called Real Power)...

What is Electrical Engineering? Scope, Subjects, and Career Opportunities in India

  Introduction Electrical Engineering is one of the most important branches of engineering that deals with electricity, electronics, and power systems. From homes and industries to electric vehicles and renewable energy, electrical engineers play a vital role in modern life. This article explains electrical engineering in simple language for students and beginners. What is Electrical Engineering? Electrical Engineering is the study of: Electricity Electrical machines Power generation and distribution Control systems Renewable energy Electrical engineers design, operate, and maintain electrical systems used in homes, industries, and power plants. Main Subjects in Electrical Engineering Some common subjects are: Basic Electrical Engineering Electrical Machines Power Systems Control Systems Power Electronics Electrical Measurements These subjects build a strong foundation for practical an...

Basic Electrical Engineering Questions

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Interview Q&A/ Technical Round: Short Q&A Section: Q1. What is Electrical Resistance? Resistance is the property of a material that opposes the flow of electric current. It depends on the material, length, cross-sectional area, and temperature of the conductor. Its unit is ohm (Ω). Q2. State Ohm’s Law. Ohm’s Law states that the current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the applied voltage, provided temperature remains constant. Mathematically, V = IR. Q3. What is Electric Current? Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge in a conductor. It is measured in amperes (A) and is denoted by I. Q4. Define Electrical Power. Electrical power is the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or converted into another form. It is measured in watts (W) and given by P = VI. Q5. What is Electrical Energy? Electrical energy is the total work done by an electrical source over time. It is measured in  watt-hour (Wh) or kilowatt-hour (kWh). Q6. What ...

Synchronous Motor vs Induction Motor

Aspect Induction Motor Synchronous Motor Operating Principle Operates on electromagnetic induction. Maintains synchronism with the rotating magnetic field. Speed Control Controlled by changing the frequency or using VFDs. Fixed speed based on the power supply frequency. Starting Mechanism Self-starting; does not require external devices. Typically requires external means for synchronization. Efficiency Generally slightly less efficient, especially at partial loads. Typically more efficient, especially for constant loads. Applications Pumps, fans, compressors, conveyor systems, household appliances. Power factor correction, synchronous conden...

Synchronous Motor vs Synchronous Generator (Alternator)

Aspect Synchronous Motor Synchronous Generator Function Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Operation Requires an external mechanical force to start rotating. Requires an initial source of electrical energy to induce rotation. Speed Operates at synchronous speed. Generates electrical power at synchronous speed. Construction Often has additional mechanisms (e.g., squirrel cage rotor). Typically has a rotor with field windings. Torque Produces torque to overcome mechanical resistance. Requires mechanical input to produce torque for electricity generation. ...

Fire Tube and Water Tube Boiler

  Characteristic Water Tube Boiler Fire Tube Boiler Tube Arrangement Water-filled tubes in the boiler Fire tubes contain hot gases Water Circulation Circulates water within tubes Water surrounds the fire tubes Heating Surface Area Larger heating surface area Smaller heating surface area Efficiency Higher thermal efficiency Lower thermal efficiency Response to Load Changes Faster response to load changes Slower response to load changes Pressure Range Suitable for high-pressure applications Typically lower pressure applications Drum Size Smaller drum size Larger drum size Safety Safer, as water surrounds the tubes Lower safety due to hot gases inside Maintenance Typically requires more maintenance Requires less maintenance Suitable for Plants Commonly used in ...

Types of Turbines in Hydro Power Station

Characteristic Pelton Turbine (Impulse) Francis Turbine (Reaction) Kaplan Turbine (Reaction) Type of Flow High head, low flow rate Medium head and medium flow rate Low head, high flow rate Runner Design Cups or buckets Blades Adjustable blades Efficiency High efficiency at high heads High efficiency over a wide range High efficiency at low heads Applications Typically used in mountainous regions and for high-head hydroelectric power generation. Widely used for a variety of head and flow conditions in hydroelectric power plants. Suitable for low-head applications, such as in rivers and low-head dams. Blade Angle Control Fixed buckets, no adjustment Fixed blades, adjustable guide vanes Adjustable blades and wicket gates Turbine Size Range Typically smaller for portable or micro-hydro applications. Varied sizes, s...