A Glossary of Electrical Terms
Every industry has its own language and terms. These words and phrases can be confusing to anyone who is not part of a specific industry’s daily operations, and the electrical contracting business is no exception.
To help you understand the terms, acronyms, and phrases regularly used when liaising with electrical contractors, Sudmiel Electric Ltd has created this handy reference guide. Here you’ll find valuable information allowing you to comprehend and communicate your electrical contracting needs effectively.
Conductor: Any material where electric current can flow freely, such as metals, which have relatively low resistance. Copper and aluminum wire are the most common conductors.
Current: The flow of an electric charge through a conductor, which is measured in amperes. An electric current can be compared to the flow of water in a pipe.
Electromotive Force (EMF): It’s a difference in potential that tends to give rise to an electric current, and is measured in volts.
Frequency: The number of cycles per second, which is measured in Hertz. If a current completes one cycle per second, then the frequency is 1 Hz, while 60 cycles per second equals 60 Hz.
Generator: A device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Inverter: An apparatus that converts direct current into an alternating current.
Kilowatt-hour (kWh): Electrical energy gets sold in units of kWh. It’s the combination of the product of power in kW and time in hours, and is equal to 1000 Watt-hours. For example, if a 100W light bulb gets used for 4 hours, 0.4kWh of energy will be used (100W x 1kW / 1000 Watts x 4 hours).
Ohm (Ω): It’s a unit of measure of resistance. One ohm is equivalent to the resistance in a circuit transmitting a one ampere current when subjected to the potential difference of one volt.
Polarity: A collective term applied to the positive (+) and negative ( - ) ends of a magnet or electrical mechanisms such as a coil or battery.
Relay: An electrical coil switch that uses a small current to control a much larger current.
Resistance: It’s measured in ohms, and is the opposition to the passage of an electric current. Electrical resistance can be compared to the friction experienced by water when flowing through a pipe.
Short Circuit: When one part of an electric circuit comes in contact with another part of the same circuit, it diverts the flow of current from its desired path.
We hope this list has made you more familiar with electrical technical terms. If you’re looking for an electrical contractor, reach out to the experts at Sudmiel Electric Ltd.
With many years of experience, we are committed to electrical excellence.
We specialize in fiber optic installations, thermal imaging, and power quality testing. We also render twenty-four-hour electrical emergency services to our clients.
We serve clients across Regina, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Manitoba, and the surrounding areas. You can view our full list of services here or get in touch with us here.
