Finding a Low Insulation | Marine Electrician

Summary

This video script outlines the importance of locating and isolating low insulation in electrical systems to prevent damage to machinery and ensure smooth operation. It demonstrates the process of troubleshooting low insulation on a switchboard, using a series of examples and step-by-step instructions. The video also highlights the best practices for conducting insulation tests and the significance of performing these tests at anchorage or port to avoid complications during main engine operation.

Takeaways

• ⏳ Insulation degradation over time is a common issue in electrical systems.
• 🔍 Insulation testing is crucial for locating low insulation in switchboards.
• 💡 The importance of locating low insulation is to ensure system reliability and prevent damage to machinery.
• 💥 Low insulation can cause equipment failure, as shown by lamps being busted in the example.
• 🔌 A three-phase motor example illustrates how low insulation can lead to motor damage.
• 🛠️ Troubleshooting low insulation is best done in anchorage or at port without operations.
• 👮‍♂️ Notifying officers in advance is important when troubleshooting to avoid complications.
• 🔄 The process involves switching off and on breakers to isolate the faulty circuit.
• 🔎 Insulation testers are used to measure resistance of conductors to ground to identify low insulation.
• 🔌 A step-by-step approach is necessary to isolate and identify the specific conductor with low insulation.
• 🔧 Once identified, the faulty conductor should be isolated for replacement by an electrician.

Q & A

Why does insulation of a conductor degrade over time?

Insulation degrades over time due to various factors such as wear and tear, exposure to environmental elements, and aging materials, which can compromise the integrity of the insulation.

What is the purpose of insulation testing with respect to ground on board?

The purpose of insulation testing with respect to ground on board is to identify any low insulation levels which could lead to electrical faults, ensuring the safety and reliability of the electrical system.

What happens when there is a low insulation between the pilot lamps in the example?

When there is a low insulation between the pilot lamps, it causes a short circuit which leads to the lamps being damaged or 'busted' as demonstrated in the script.

Why is it important to locate and isolate low insulation in a three-phase motor system?

Locating and isolating low insulation in a three-phase motor system is crucial to prevent damage to the motor windings and casing, which could result in a significant fault and potential equipment failure.

What is the consequence of not isolating low insulation in an electrical system?

Not isolating low insulation can lead to machinery damage, operational disruptions, and even blackouts, posing a risk to both safety and efficiency.

Why is it complicated to troubleshoot low insulation while the main engine is running?

Troubleshooting low insulation while the main engine is running is complicated because it requires switching off most of the breakers in the switchboard, which can potentially cause the main engine to stop or lead to a blackout.

What is the best place to troubleshoot low insulation issues according to the script?

The best place to troubleshoot low insulation issues is at anchorage, and the next best place is at port, provided there's no operation.

How does the process of locating low insulation on a switchboard involve switching breakers?

The process involves switching off all breakers on the switchboard, then switching them back on one by one while recording the readings on the insulation monitor to pinpoint the source of low insulation.

What is the significance of the ultra light distribution board in locating the low insulation?

The ultra light distribution board is significant because it is where the low insulation was located in the example provided in the script.

How does the script suggest isolating the conductor with low insulation?

The script suggests isolating the conductor with low insulation by disconnecting all conductors connected at a junction and measuring the line-to-ground insulation one by one using an insulation tester.

What is the final step to identify the specific load with low insulation after locating the conductor?

The final step is to connect all the good conductors, isolate the bad ones, switch on the power for the circuit breaker, and check which load has no power to identify the specific load with low insulation.