Electrical OM Getting Started

ElectricalOM Getting
Started
Copyright © 2018 by Modecsoft. All Rights Reserved.

ElectricalOM Getting Started
Table of contents
Tutorial - Quick Start .................................................................................................. 5

Main Environment .................................................................................................. 5
Basic settings..................................................................................................... 6
Project info and options ................................................................................. 6
Schematic environment .................................................................................. 8
Navigating the schematic ............................................................................... 9
Default Symbols ......................................................................................... 10
Creating New Symbols ................................................................................. 11
Example Design ................................................................................................... 14
Example Details ............................................................................................... 15
Step 1 - Design the Main Structure of the Installation......................................... 17
Add and Edit the Main Supply ....................................................................... 17
Add the Main Supply ................................................................................ 17
Edit the Main Supply ................................................................................ 18
Add the Main and Sub Distribution Boards ..................................................... 19
Add the Main Distribution Board ............................................................... 19
Add Sub Distribution Boards ..................................................................... 20
Set the Circuit Description ........................................................................ 21
Set the Board Ways and Style .................................................................. 23
Add Final Circuits ......................................................................................... 25
Add a Final Circuit.................................................................................... 26
Edit the Final Circuit's Basic Information.................................................... 27
Set the Description, the Kind and the Load Details................................. 28
Display Calculation Errors and Recommendations .................................. 29
Apply Changes .................................................................................... 30
Circuits Rearrangment .................................................................................. 30
Copy / Paste............................................................................................ 30
Drag / Drop ............................................................................................. 31
Shifting Circuits ....................................................................................... 33
Step 2 - Calculate the Maximum Demand and Apply Load Balancing ................... 34
Apply Diversity Factors ................................................................................. 34
Maximum Demand ....................................................................................... 35
Load Balancing ............................................................................................ 36
Step 3 - Set the Protective Devices and Calculate the Cable Sizes ....................... 39
Set the Protective Devices ............................................................................ 39
Circuit Protection ..................................................................................... 39
Incomer Disconnection/Isolation ............................................................... 40
Use of RCD ............................................................................................. 41
Set the Cable Size ........................................................................................ 42
Minimum Conductor Sizes ........................................................................ 42
Phase/Neutral Conductor ......................................................................... 44
Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC) ............................................................ 45
Armour as CPC .................................................................................... 47
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Separate Conductor ............................................................................. 48

Correction Factors ................................................................................... 48
Step 4 - Resolve Calculation Warnings and Discrimination Problems .................... 49
Circuit with Critical Errors ............................................................................. 50
Voltage Drop Errors ..................................................................................... 51
Voltage Drop Limits ................................................................................. 52
Protective Devices Discrimination Problems ................................................... 53
Fixing Discrimination Problems ................................................................. 54
Step 5 - Finalize Design and Print Reports ......................................................... 56
Add Symbols to the Schematic ...................................................................... 56
Show Calculations in Schematic .................................................................... 57
Create New Schematic Page ......................................................................... 58
Set Page Size and Add Frames...................................................................... 59
Print and Export Results ............................................................................... 60
Print Selected Circuit Report ..................................................................... 61
Print Active Page of Schematic ................................................................. 61
Schematic Drawing Mode ............................................................................. 63
Drawing Objects ...................................................................................... 63
Selecting Objects ..................................................................................... 64
Edit Commands ....................................................................................... 64
Undo Redo .............................................................................................. 67
Object Snaps ........................................................................................... 67
Object Properties ..................................................................................... 69
Ortho Mode ............................................................................................. 69
Pan ......................................................................................................... 70
Calculations and Checks............................................................................................ 70
Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Calculations ..................................... 70
Voltage Drop Calculation ...................................................................................... 71
Maximum Phase Fault Current Calculation ............................................................. 72
Minimum Phase Fault Current Calculation .............................................................. 73
Earth Fault Current Calculation.............................................................................. 74
Protective Device Disconnection Time at Earth Fault............................................... 75
Calculation of Touch Voltage ................................................................................. 76
Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Calculation ................................................. 76
Short-Circuit Maximum Peak Value for Busbar Trunking Systems ............................ 77
Transformer short circuit fault current calculation ................................................... 78
References .......................................................................................................... 78
Warnings Environment ............................................................................................. 78
Critical ................................................................................................................. 79
Voltage Drop Check ......................................................................................... 80
Voltage Drop Within Final Circuit for a Private Supply ......................................... 80
Touch Voltage Limit Check ............................................................................... 81
Ring Sockets .................................................................................................... 82
Protective Device Rating Check ..................................................................... 83
Ph/N Conductor C.S.A Check ........................................................................ 84
RCD Device Required for Circuit Check .............................................................. 85
Maximum Permitted Disconnection Time at Earth Fault Check............................. 86
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CPC Adiabatic Check ........................................................................................ 87

Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Check .................................................... 88
Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Checks ........................................ 89
Phase Conductor Adiabatic Check ..................................................................... 90
Busbar Trunking System Short-Circuit Peak Withstand Check.............................. 91
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Circuit's Protective Device Check ..................... 92
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Incomer Protective Device Check .................... 92
Rating of the Incomer Switch/Isolator Check ..................................................... 93
Rating of the Incomer Overcurrent Protective Device Check ............................... 94
Neutral Conductor Current Carrying Capacity Check ........................................... 94
Neutral Current Protective Device Rating Check ................................................. 95
Motor Starter Overload Setting Check ................................................................ 96
UPS Power Rating Check .................................................................................. 97
Transfer Switch Load Rating Check ................................................................... 98
Source Load Capacity Check ............................................................................. 98
Source Earthing Conductor Adiabatic Check ....................................................... 99
Important ...........................................................................................................100
Voltage Drop over the Split Limit Set Check ......................................................101
Energy Based Discrimination Check ..................................................................101
Discrimination During Overcurrent Check..........................................................102
Incomer Protective Device Discrimination During Overcurrent Check ..................103
Discrimination During Earth Fault Check ...........................................................103
Incomer Protective Device Discrimination During Earth Fault Check ...................104
Motor Starting Check .......................................................................................104
Service Breaking Capacity of the Circuit Protective Device Check........................105
Service Breaking Capacity of the Incomers Protective Device Check ...................106
Installation in Conduit Check ...........................................................................107
Installation in Trunking Check ..........................................................................107
Installation Compliance with Regulations Check ................................................108
Harmonic Content in Circuit Check ...................................................................109
Current Carrying Capacity of the Tails Conductor Check ....................................110
Simple ................................................................................................................111
Load Balance Check ........................................................................................111
Power Factor Correction Unit Usage Check .......................................................112
Existing Installation Warning............................................................................113
Inactive Circuit Warning ..................................................................................114
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Tutorial - Quick Start
This tutorial is a quick start for users with little or no experience using the software. The purpose of the
tutorial is to guide the user through the basic functionalities of the software so that they can be ready to
start designing and studying low-voltage electrical installations of their own.
Main Environment
The main operating environment has a main menu, and areas for modeling, information and warnings.
1. Main Menu: From the main menu, the user has access to a number of project functions. These include
opening or saving project files, configuring project settings, inserting circuits, managing windows,
accessing the help section of the software or requesting support.
2. Tree Network View: In ElectricalOM, each electrical element of the active network appears in the tree
network view, the left-most panel of the application window, allowing quick access and modifications to
the active network. From the tree network view the user can add or delete circuits or modify the network
structure by dragging and dropping element nodes.
3. Warnings: During the creation of a project, calculations and checks are performed automatically with
detailed error messages that appear in the warnings area. The area for warnings notifies the user when
the software has found the model to be out of compliance or not to satisfy a physical constraint of the
installation material. Critical warnings require that the user go back and change project settings in order
to put the project into compliance with regulation, or so that the project meet the physical constraints of
the installation material. Elements with warnings appear in red in the tree network view.
4. Module Tabs: ElectricalOM is developed using modular software development principles, allowing
add-on modules to be used to extend the features of the software on demand. The modules can be
popped out, to be made to appear in a different window, allowing immediate access to information
during modeling.
5. Active Module Area: The module corresponding to the active tab (4) appears in this area, allowing the
user to perform tasks and modifications.
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Basic settings
Project Information and Main Options
Setting the Schematic Environment Settings
Navigating the Schematic: Pan, Zoom
Setting the Default Symbols
Creating New Symbols
Project info and options

To configure the project from the main menu select Edit (1) and then Project info and options... (2).
From the project information tab (1) the user can set a number of project attributes, including: the title of
the project, the client, the date and also designer related information. The user may also choose to
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include his or her logo by clicking the image below (2).
In case of multiple calculations scenarios the user may associate specific information with a particular
scenario by describing the scenario or clicking the corresponding button (3). Project revisions (4) are also
available for the user to keep track of the changes and modifications made during the project's
implementation.
Project information, designer information, and the most recent revision will be displayed in the frame of
each page of the schematic, and at the reports. These information are project related and should be set
for every new project. The Predefined button (5) fills in the default user information (see below).
The default user information can be set from the default user information tab (1). Calculations related
settings can be set from the checks tab (2) and default program options covering auto-save, language and
color scheme from the project defaults tab (3). These settings are system-wide and are applied each time
the software starts.
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Schematic environment
You can set the schematic environment settings by clicking on the palette options icon (1). From the
palette options dialog (2) that appears, the user can control the appearance of the schematic.
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Navigating the schematic

Pan and Zoom are used to help the user navigate their view of the schematic in order that they can more
easily examine circuits of interest. In general, panning and zooming the view are accomplished by using
the mouse wheel. Rolling the wheel zooms the view, while pressing the wheel and dragging pans the
view. Note that the position of the cursor will affect the way that the view responds to a zoom action.
Note:
If you use a touch pad, you can use gestures to pan and zoom.
 Zoom in: Glide thumb and index finger apart.

 Zoom out: Pinch thumb and index finger together.
 Pan: Use a two-finger swipe in the direction that you want to move the view.
From the schematic tool bar you can also perform zoom actions.To zoom to the extents of the figures in
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the drawing press the Zoom All button (1). To zoom to a rectangular area of your specification, click the
Zoom Window button (2) and then specify opposing corners of this area.
Default Symbols
To control which symbols are used to display devices in the schematic:
From the tool bar, click the default symbols icon(1). Make a selection from the appearing dialog by
clicking on the device that you would like to configure. A dialog will appear, allowing you to choose a
symbol for this device by selecting a category (3) and then double-clicking on the symbol of your choice.
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Creating New Symbols

To create a new symbol, select the symbols tab (1) at the right panel of the schematic module. Then
Right-click the symbols area list-box (2). Select Create new... (3) to open the symbol builder.
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Using the symbol builder, you are able to create a symbol simply by drawing figures in the design area (2).
The green cross indicates the insertion point of the symbol. The insertion point can be moved to a
location of your choice.
From the general properties (3) you can set the default price (4) of the symbol, which is used in the Bill of
Quantities Report. Each symbol can be placed in one of the categories (5), including Sources, Distribution
Circuits, final circuits etc. A symbol name must be given (6) before saving (7).
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To edit an existing symbol, select the symbols tab (1) at the right panel of the schematic module. You may
filter the symbols appearing by selecting a category (2). To edit a symbol, right-click it and then choose
Edit symbol...(3) to enter the symbol builder. You can also delete (4), rename (5) or move the symbol to
another category (6).
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Example Design
The design process is typically followed as in the steps described below.
Step 1 - Design the main structure of the installation:
At the beginning of the design process we create the basic structure of the installation. This means setting
up the distribution circuits, and final circuits downstream from them. When a circuit is added to the
installation, the designer sets the type of the conductor, its installation method and its length. For final
circuits, the user need specify the type of circuit, along with all of its load parameters. These parameters
include the kind, number of points, watts per point or design current, power factor, third harmonic
percentage and any diversity factor.
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Step 2 - Calculate the maximum demand (and apply load balancing for three phase installations)
After completing step one, the designer is able to calculate the load demand of each distribution circuit
and the maximum demand of the installation by applying diversity factors. Also if required the user can
specify any spare load percentage to be considered. In case of a three phase installation, at this stage it is
appropriate to make changes for load balancing starting from the downstream sub distribution circuits,
and moving upstream to the Main Distribution Circuit. The designer can balance the load by moving,
swapping or shifting circuits in the distribution circuit so the loads per phase are balanced.
Step 3 - Set the protective devices and calculate the cable sizes
Knowing the demand of each circuit and the maximum demand of the installation, the designer is able to
set the appropriate protective devices and then calculate the required cable sizes, starting from the Main
Distribution Circuit and moving downstream. Also at this point the designer can set correction factors for
the ambient temperature, depth of lay, etc., that eventually will affect the cable size selection.
Step 4 - Resolve warnings and discrimination problems
At this point the user must resolve the critical warnings, and give attention to and resolve warnings
related to the discrimination between the protective devices.
Step 5 - Finalize design and print reports
To finalize the design the user may set the frame size per page and draw details or notes.
Example Details
In this tutorial we will design a three phase domestic installation. The installation consists of three
distribution circuits, the Main Distribution Board and two sub distribution boards. The Main Distribution
Board is located at the ground floor and feeds a sub distribution board to the basement and another to
the floor level. The basic information required for the design are the Main Supply characteristics and the
final circuits per distribution board. These are presented below:
Main supply characteristics:

Type: Three phase - Public supply
Voltage: 400V/230V, 50Hz
Earthing system: TN-C-S
Source rating: 500kVA with source impedance Z: 6%
Supply cable up to the origin of the installation:
 Up to the building: Al - Multicore XLPE 90oC armoured, length: 20m, cross sectional area: 16mm2,
installed underground
 Up to the meter: Al - Multicore XLPE 90oC armoured, length: 10m, cross sectional area: 16mm2,
installed on a surface
Distribution circuits:
Name Supplied Phase Cable length Cable type and installation method
from (m)
Main: MDB Main Three 5 Cu - Multicore XLPE 90oC armoured, in
supply phase underground single way ducts
Basement DB- MDB Single 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in
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G phase conduit in a wall

Floor level DB- MDB Single 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in
F phase conduit in a wall
Main Distribution Board - MDB:
load kind Installation Cable length (m) Cable type and installation method
points
Cooker 1 15 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Dish washer 1 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Dryer 1 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Fridge 1 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Air 1 20 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
conditioning in a wall
1
2
Sockets ring 25 45 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Lights 1 15 30 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
in a wall
Basement distribution board- DB-G:
points
Fridge 1 10 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
Sockets ring 15 30 Cu - Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit
in a wall
in a wall
in a wall
Floor level distribution board- DB-F:
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points
Air 1 15 Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit in a
conditioning wall
1
Air 1 15 Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit in a
conditioning wall
2
Sockets ring 15 30 Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit in a
wall
Lights 1 10 25 Single Core PVC 70oC non-armoured, in conduit in a
wall
Step 1 - Design the Main Structure of the Installation

At the beginning of the design process we create the basic structure of the installation. This means setting
up the distribution circuits, and final circuits downstream from them. When a circuit is added to the
installation, the designer sets the type of the conductor, its installation method and its length. For final
circuits, the user need specify the type of circuit, along with all of its load parameters. These parameters
include the kind, number of points, watts per point or design current, power factor, third harmonic
percentage and any diversity factor.
Add and Edit the Main Supply

The project begins with the creation of the Main Supply
Add the Main Supply
Edit the Main Supply
Add the Main Supply

To add the Main Supply, right click on the tree network view (1) or on the schematic view (2). From the
design menu select Insert, Source, 3Ph+N to insert a three phase power source.
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Edit the Main Supply

To edit the Main Supply, simply double click on it from the tree view, or select edit from the design menu,
brought up by right clicking on the supply node, as shown below:
With the supply editor the user can set all of the properties of the installation up to the origin. These
include the phase voltage, the earthing system and earthing arrangements, the supply frequency, the
supplier's transformer rating, prospective fault current and external impedances, voltage drop settings,
premises settings and touch voltage limit and other information specific to the supplier.
In our example we will set the values as shown below. Press OK to accept the changes.
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Type: Public supply (1)

Voltage: 400V/230V (2) , 50Hz (4)
Earthing system: TN-C-S (3)
Source rating: 500kVA with source impedance Z: 6% (6)
Supply cable up to the origin of the installation: (7) and press "Set..." (8) to set the extra cable values.
 Up to the building: Al - Multicore XLPE 90oC armoured, length: 20m, cross sectional area: 16mm2,
installed underground
 Up to the meter: Al - Multicore XLPE 90oC armoured, length: 10m, cross sectional area: 16mm2,
installed on a surface
The resulted prospective symmetrical fault current at the origin is presented in 9 and prospective phase
to N/Earth fault in 10. These values can be manually set if the user chooses not to set the extra cable up
to the origin point of the installation (7)
Add the Main and Sub Distribution Boards

After adding the main supply we will add the main and sub distribution boards of the installation.
Add the Main Distribution Board
Add Sub Distribution Boards
Add the Main Distribution Board

To add the Main Distribution Board, left click on the Main Supply element (1) from the tree network view
or the schematic view (2) and right click to show the design menu. From the design menu select Insert,
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Distribution Board, 3Ph to insert a three phase Main Distribution Board.
Add Sub Distribution Boards

To add the first sub distribution board select the tree node labeled [1.L1] empty (1) with a left click and
with a right click select Insert, Distribution Board, 1Ph (2).
Repeat to add the second sub distribution board from 1.L2.
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Set the Circuit Description

You can set the description of the selected circuit from the properties tab (1), at the description field (2).
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Alternatively you can set the description of the selected circuit from the tree network view by left clicking
the circuit once, so that the selected node's text becomes editable. After editing the label press enter to
apply the new description.
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Set the Board Ways and Style

Board ways:
Initially the three-phase distribution boards have four ways, accommodating a total of 12 single phase
circuits, and the single-phase distribution boards four single phase ways, accommodating a total of 4
single phase circuits. To increase the number of ways, select a distribution board from the tree network
view or from the schematic, and from the properties tab, set the number of ways from the drop down
menu (1).
In this tutorial we need to modify the ways of the sub distribution board DB-G, and increase them from 4
to 8 as shown below:
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Board style:
Initially the style of the distribution board is Din Rail. To change the board's style select a distribution
board element from the tree network view or from the schematic, and from the properties tab, click the
button labeled Select style... (1). A pop-up window will appear, from which the style of the distribution
board can be selected.
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After selecting the style, the schematic will refresh to show the new distribution board, seen below (1). In
this tutorial we will use a Din Rail style, so we undo the change by clicking the undo button (2).
Add Final Circuits

We will start by adding the final circuits to the Main Distribution Board and then continue with the final
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circuits from the sub distribution boards.
Add a Final Circuit
Edit the Final Circuit's Basic Information
Add a Final Circuit

To add a final circuit at the position 1.L3, select the empty way in the tree network view (1) or at the
schematic diagram (2) with a left click and then right click to show the design menu. From the design
menu select Insert, Final circuit 1Ph (3).
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Edit the Final Circuit's Basic Information

To edit the final circuit, select it from the tree network view (1) or from the schematic (2) with a left click
on the symbol, and select the circuit edit tab (3).
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Set the Description, the Kind and the Load Details

Here we are going to modify some of the parameters of a circuit from the circuit editor. To change the
description of the circuit, we type the desired description into the text box labeled Description (1). We
would like that the circuit be a cooker control unit, so we select the appropriate kind from the kind drop
down menu (2). Default values for the load are automatically set according to the selected kind. To
change this value, set the watts value (3) or the amperes value (4) in the corresponding field. For more
detailed modeling, you can also specify the power factor (5), the third harmonic percentage (6) and the
diversity factor (7). For this tutorial we will leave the default values unaffected.
Please note that the software performs calculations immediately, producing an error indication next to
the offending parameter (8).
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Display Calculation Errors and Recommendations

Calculations are made immediately following a change to the circuit editor, producing a graphical
indication of an error next to the offending parameter. The error icons (1) in the circuit editor have a tool-
tip that will present details about the corresponding error and a recommendation how to fix it (2). To
display the tool-tip text the user need hover the mouse cursor over the error icon as shown below. At this
stage we will not try to fix any of the errors. The errors will be fixed at a later stage after we have finished
configuring the distribution circuits.
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Apply Changes
To apply the changes and save the circuit press the Apply changes button (2). To cancel the changes press
the Cancel button (3). To print the Calculations Report for this circuit press the Print button (4). If the tab
belonging to the circuit editor (1) is marked with an asterisk, as in the screen shot below, it is an indication
that the circuit has changes that have not been applied.
Circuits Rearrangment
In order to streamline design of a network, the user might find it helpful to copy and paste circuits and/or
use other functions:
Copy / Paste
Drag / Drop
Shifting Circuits
Copy / Paste
Bellow we will copy the cooker circuit and paste it to 1.L2. To copy the circuit, select it from the tree
network view or from the schematic diagram with a left click. Then with a right click on the selected
circuit select Copy.
To paste the copied circuit, right click on empty way 1.L2 (1) and select Paste (2).
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Drag / Drop
You can drag and drop circuits in order to move or copy them to another position anywhere in the active
network tree. To do this, press down with the left mouse button on the element node (1) and keep the
left mouse button pressed. Then move the mouse to desired position (2). Release the left mouse button
to drop the circuit.
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After dropping the circuit select Replace, And Keep to copy the circuit to the sub distribution board.
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Shifting Circuits
To shift circuits, select the circuit P1 COOKER (1) with a left click and then right click to show the design
menu. From the design menu select Shift circuit, Down (2). Alternatively you can use the shortcut keys
Ctrl+Shift+Down.
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Step 2 - Calculate the Maximum Demand and Apply Load Balancing

After completing step one, the designer is able to calculate the load demand of each distribution circuit
and the maximum demand of the installation by applying diversity factors. Also if required the user can
specify any spare load percentage to be considered. In case of a three phase installation, at this stage it is
appropriate to make changes for load balancing starting from the downstream sub distribution circuits,
and moving upstream to the Main Distribution Circuit. The designer can balance the load by moving,
swapping or shifting circuits in the distribution circuit so the loads per phase are balanced.
Apply Diversity Factors
Maximum Demand
Load Balancing
Apply Diversity Factors

At this point we have completed the first step of the work flow. The next step is to calculate the maximum
demand and apply load balancing. To do this we will first apply the default diversity factors for each
distribution circuit. This can be done from Circuit functions after right clicking on the Main Supply as
shown below. This will calculate the diversity factors for all final circuits.
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We can also apply extra diversity per distribution circuit and set spare load from the circuit editor. For this
tutorial we will apply an extra diversity factor of 0.9 (1) only for the Main Distribution Circuit as shown
below:
Maximum Demand
From the loads tab (1), the loads summations results are displayed. The diversified plus spare load (2) of
the Main Distribution Circuit, represents the maximum demand of the installation.
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Load Balancing
In three-phase systems we need to make sure that the load is balanced across the phases. To check this
we can filter the warnings to show only the simple ones by selecting Simple in the warnings type filter (1),
and checking for load balance warnings (2). In our case the load in MDB is not balanced, so we need to
examine the loads in each of the phases (3). From the loads chart we can see that L3 (gray) is less than the
other two L1 (brown) and L2 (black).
A possible solution to the load balancing problem is to move a circuit from L2 (black) to L3 (gray) to
increase the total in L3 and at the same time reduce it for L2. We right click on Lights 2 and choosing to
Cut (1), and then Paste (2), the circuit Lights 2 is moved from 4.L2 to 4.L3 causing the load to be balanced
and the load balance warning to be resolved (3).
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Step 3 - Set the Protective Devices and Calculate the Cable Sizes
Knowing the demand of each circuit and the maximum demand of the installation, the designer is able to
set the appropriate protective devices and then calculate the required cable sizes, starting from the Main
Distribution Circuit and moving downstream. Also at this point the designer can set correction factors for
the ambient temperature, depth of lay, etc., that eventually will affect the cable size selection.
Set the Protective Devices

Here we will show how to set the main over-current protective device (the protective device of the Main
Distribution Circuit) and the main incomer disconnector/isolator. Following the same procedure you can
modify and set the protective devices of the sub distribution and final circuits.
Circuit Protection
Incomer Disconnection/Isolation
Use of RCD
Circuit Protection
From the circuit editor (1) select the protective devices tab (2) and then under the circuit protection tab
(3) click the button labeled Change... (4) to make a selection from a table of manufacturers.
To select a protective device select the manufacturer (1), the type (2), the device family (3) and the device
rating (4). Red colored ratings indicates that a particular rating selection is not acceptable because of the
circuit's load. To submit the selection press the Select button (5).
To help you finding the desired device, you can click on the device-manufacturer icon (6) and also filter
the results based on the device type (7) and ultimate breaking capacity, Icu (8) .
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For the Main Distribution Circuit we will choose a 3-Pole MCB Type C 63A with Icu = 10kA as shown below:
Incomer Disconnection/Isolation
Incomer disconnection/isolation devices can be set only for distribution circuits. To set the incomer
disconnection/isolation device, select the protective devices tab (1) and then the incomer
disconnection/isolation sub-tab (2). The engineer can choose to use an overcurrent protection device
and/or an RCD device and/or and isolation/disconnection device. For this example we will use the default
isolation/disconnection device AC21 at 63A (3), as shown below.
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Use of RCD
Where required the engineer can choose to use an RCD device by checking the corresponding box (1) and
then by clicking the button labeled Change... (2) to select the protective device from a table of
manufacturers. The user also can select the type of the RCD device from the list (3).
The screen shot below shows an example where an RCD is in use for a sockets circuit:
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Set the Cable Size

After setting the protective device we are ready to calculate the cable size of the Main Distribution Circuit.
Minimum Conductor Sizes
Phase/Neutral Conductor
Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC)
Correction Factors
Minimum Conductor Sizes

In some cases it is required that the selected conductors are over a default minimum size. To set the
minimum conductor sizes go to Functions from the main menu and choose Minimum conductor sizes (1).
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From the minimum conductor sizes dialog the engineer can choose the minimum conductor size per
circuit kind. In our example we have chosen 1.5mm2 for all kinds of final circuit. To do this we select the
circuit kind (1) and from the list (2) we choose the minimum size. Note that submitting the minimum
conductor sizes does not affect existing circuits. The minimum sizes are applied to newly added circuits or
after applying changes to existing ones, during circuit editing.
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Phase/Neutral Conductor
To set the phase and neutral conductor, go to the phase/neutral conductor tab (1) of the circuit editor.
From the conductor type menu (2), you can change the type of the conductor. The list is broken into a
number of columns to help the user make a selection. The first column contains a reference to the
corresponding conductor in the BS 7671. The second column presents the material of the conductor. The
third column shows the description of the conductor and the fourth column indicates the armour or
sheath material.
To filter the list of available conductors use the filtering options (3). The make-up of the conductor is
shown below (4) the drop-down. Conductors can also accept special options (5).
For the Main Distribution Board we will select the second conductor type from the list, making its
conductor a copper multicore 90oC XLPE armoured cable.
After selecting the type of conductor we must now set the installation method (7). The installation
methods are categorized (6). In this example we will choose Method D No. 70, which corresponds to
underground single way ducts. The description of the installation method (8) helps the user identify
whether the selected installation method is the correct one.
Some installation methods require special care in order to keep in compliance with the regulations of BS
7671, because they require additional information. For example, the method that we have chosen
incorporates ducts, so the user must include information about the conduit type and size (9).
Finally, we set the length (10) of the cable to 5m and the cable's cross sectional area / rating from the
drop-down (11) to 16mm² / 75A. The Find button (12) helps the user find the minimum cable size
required. Please use this function with caution because it can select wrong sizes if the upstream circuits
have not yet been finalized.
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At this stage note that all previous errors have been resolved and the error indications have disappeared.
A new error (1) appears due to the conduit's not being large enough to accommodate the conductor after
having selected a larger cable size. To take care of this, click the find button below the conduit diameter
to select a 32mm conduit diameter.
Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC)

Armour as CPC
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Separate Conductor
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Armour as CPC
To set the circuit protective conductor (CPC) of the circuit, choose the earthing tab (1). The properties of
the CPC depend on the cable being passed. In our case, during the configuration of the circuit protective
conductor, special settings are provided for armoured cable arrangements (2). The adiabatic check (3)
indicates the minimum size of the CPC. For distribution circuits the engineer may choose to use extra local
earthing to reinforce the earthing of the installation (4). For the Main Distribution Circuit we will choose
the first option, Cable armour.
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Separate Conductor
To set a separate conductor as the circuit protective conductor, select the earthing tab (1). Here the
engineer can specify how the CPC will be installed (3) and the size of the CPC (4). When setting the CPC
make sure that the earth fault adiabatic check (5) is satisfied. The image (2) shows a typical diagram of the
CPC installation.
Correction Factors
Correction factors affect the cable size selection. The engineer must set the correct factors in order to
make sure that the design is appropriate for the conditions of the installation. The correction factors can
be set by choosing the correction factors tab (1) at the circuit editor. The image below shows an example
where the ambient temperature correction factor (2) brings about a violation of a constraint (3). In this
tutorial we will leave all correction factors to the default values.
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Step 4 - Resolve Calculation Warnings and Discrimination Problems

After inserting and editing all the parameters of the installation the user must resolve warnings that have
put the network out of compliance with regulation. The warnings can be examined from the warnings
area (1) and can be filtered based on their importance (critical, important, simple) and/or the type (load,
voltage drop, discrimination, other) (2). Warnings can be printed by clicking on the print button (3). An
element that has a warning associated with it is marked in red (4) in the tree network view.
Extensive documentation about the warnings presented in ElectricalOM can be found in section
"ElectricalOM Calculations Warnings and Checks"
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Circuit with Critical Errors

When a selected circuit has critical errors, the circuit edit tab is marked with a red icon (1) indicating the
error. A tool tip with the description of the critical error is present when the user hovers the mouse over
the tab. All warnings are presented in the warnings area (2).
Even if in the circuit editor there are no critical warnings, the circuit might still be associated with critical
warnings due to circuits upstream. In this example the voltage drop limit is affected by the conductor
belonging to the Main Distribution Board, which has been left to its default size 1mm2, causing high
voltage drops in the downstream circuits. We will take care of this error when we set the Main
Distribution Board's conductor.
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Voltage Drop Errors

Voltage drop errors are displayed in the warnings area (1). By clicking on the warning the affected circuit
is selected. Detailed voltage drop calculations are available for each circuit through the voltage drop tab
(2). The voltage drop area displays the voltage drop from supply, from circuit and the total (3).
In our tutorial, the distribution circuit DB-G has a voltage drop warning because of the split limit set. To
take care of this and eliminate the warning we will increase its conductor size from 6mm2 to 10mm2. After
applying the change to the circuit editor the warning disappears.
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Voltage Drop Limits

The voltage drop limits are defined when editing the Main Supply. The engineer may also alter the voltage
drop limits of an individual circuit from the circuit editor under the voltage drop tab (1).
For distribution circuits there is an option to split the voltage drop limit between the distribution circuit
and its final circuits. This split limit is not a regulation requirement but is set by the designer to warn him
or her about circuits exceeding the specified voltage drop percentage value, allowing for finer control of
the voltage drop across circuits. By default the split limit is enabled and this can be disabled by selecting
the option Without split of the voltage drop limit (2). For this tutorial we will leave the split limit to 1.5%
per phase of the distribution circuit and the remaining 3.5% to the connected final circuits (3).
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Protective Devices Discrimination Problems

The purpose of discrimination is to disconnect only the faulty circuit from the distribution network while
maintaining the upstream electrical installation active.
Discrimination can be either total or partial. Discrimination is said to be total if discrimination between
the upstream and downstream protective devices is provided up to the value of the maximum
prospective short-circuit current at the downstream protective device.
Protective devices discrimination problems are tricky to resolve and sometimes may require a change to
the design parameters, eventually affecting the cost of the installation. In some cases the engineer may
decide to skip some of the checks and accept that the design will contain discrimination problems.
According to regulation, discrimination (or selectivity) is demanded when it is necessary to prevent danger
or when it is required for proper functioning of the installation.
ElectricaOM performs discrimination checks between the time-amperes curves of the protective devices,
where overlapping curves indicate a discrimination problem. When the manufacturer's energy-based
discrimination data are available and the fault condition is causing operation of the protective device
below 0.1 sec, the checks are performed based on the manufacturer's discrimination tables.
In this tutorial we are using generic protective devices.
The images below show two cases. The first is a successful discrimination study, with no overlapping
between the curves. The second study fails, with the curves overlapping.
Fixing Discrimination Problems
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Fixing Discrimination Problems

To resolve problems with discrimination the engineer must make sure that the time-current curves of the
protective devices are not overlapping, or where manufacturer data are available, it can be done through
the energy-based discrimination check. Please note that energy-based discrimination checks are
performed only when the operating time of the device under study is less than 0.1 sec.
From the discrimination study module (1), the engineer can inspect the selected circuit's protective
devices behavior against those of the circuits upstream. In this tutorial we have chosen a 63A Type C MCB
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for the MDB (2) and a 40A Type C MCB for the DB-G (3). This arrangement is causing a discrimination
problem due to the overlapping of their time-current curves.
To resolve the above problem we need to choose a larger device for the MDB. At this point the engineer
needs to choose a suitable device. If we select a 125A Type C MCB to resolve the discrimination problem,
it will lead to an increase in cable size from 16mm2 to 70mm2 for the Main Distribution Circuit, which is
not a good design for a domestic installation.
An alternative path is to choose an adjustable MCCB device that will be adjusted so that its time-amperes
curve will not overlap with the downstream device.
To do so, click in the legend area of the main MCB (1). The overload setting of the MCCB device adjusted
to the rated current 80A (Ir = 80A), leads from a 16mm2 to a 25mm2 cable size for the Main Distribution
Circuit, which is acceptable for a domestic installation.
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Step 5 - Finalize Design and Print Reports

After taking care of the warnings and applying the required fixes we are ready to finalize the design by
adding additional symbols and choosing to show calculation results on the schematic. Finally, for each of
the pages of the schematic, the page size and frame adjustments should be configured before printing.
Add Symbols to the Schematic
Show Calculations in Schematic
Create New Schematic Page
Set Page Size and Add Frames
Print and Export Results
Schematic Drawing Mode
Add Symbols to the Schematic

The designer can choose to add symbols in any part of the network by dragging and dropping the symbol
from the symbols area (1) to the desired location, until the tick mark appears (2). In this example we have
added a meter symbol before the main protective device.
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To modify the symbol's label, click the symbol so that it becomes green (1) and modify its properties from
the properties area (2).
Show Calculations in Schematic

To show calculations in the schematic click the show calculations button (1) from the schematic tool bar.
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Calculations are shown beside the circuit's description.
Create New Schematic Page

For larger networks, the user may find it helpful to arrange the schematic over a number of pages. To do
this, left-click a distribution circuit (1) that you want to move to a new page, and right click to show the
design menu. From Schematic functions select Create page (2). You can navigate through the pages from
the pages drop-down menu (3).
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To rename the page press the button immediately to the right (4) of the pages drop-down menu. From
the pop-up window (2) the user changes the description of the active page.
Set Page Size and Add Frames

To define the active page size for printing the pages of the schematic, a choice must be made from the
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corresponding drop-down menu (1). Also the designer may choose to show the page frame (2) that
contains also all of the project information. To resize the frame use the track bar (3) so that the drawing
fits into the frame.
Print and Export Results

From the reports tab (1) the designer can print calculations summaries and schematics together in one
report. The list selection (2) let the user choose which type of output to include in the final report. After
choosing the desired types, click the Generate report button (3) to create the report. The report can be
exported to PDF or RTF format (4) for further editing.
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Print Selected Circuit Report

To print the analytical calculations report of a circuit right click the circuit from the network tree or the
schematic and choose Print report (1).
Print Active Page of Schematic
To print the active page press the print button (1). This will show a print preview as in the screen shot
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below. Also the user can export the report to PDF file.
You can also print a part of the active page or change some of the print settings by clicking the print with
settings button (2). This will show a form with settings that can be configured as shown below:
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Schematic Drawing Mode

The drawing mode enables the user to draw CAD entities including polylines, rectangles, circles and other
figures in the pages of the schematic. Object Snaps, ortho mode and other CAD based functions are also
supported during drawing.
To enable drawing mode, click the drawing mode button (1) from the schematic toolbar. Afterward, the
drawing mode toolbar will appear (2) with the available tools for drawing. Users with experience in CAD
software (like AutoCAD) will find this easy to follow because the drawing commands are very similar.
Drawing Objects
Objects appearing in the drawing are specified by their geometry.
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1. Line
A line is specified by two points, the start point and the end point. Lines can be one segment or a series of
connected segments, but each segment is a separate line object.
2. Polyline
This object is composed of line and arc (bulges) segments.
3.Rectangle
A rectangle is defined by two points: the upper left and the lower right corner.
4.Circle
A full circle is defined by its center point and its radius.
5.Ellipse
An ellipse is determined by its center, and major and minor axes.
6. Arc
A circular arc is defined by the center point, the radius, the start angle and the end angle. An arc is always
drawn anti-clockwise from the start angle to the end angle. The start point and end point properties of an
arc are calculated through the start angle, end angle and radius properties.
7. Text
Text can be added to the drawing. The point must be specified where the text will begin. Then the angle
of rotation must be specified. After that actual text content can be specified.
8. Multiline
Two or more lines in one object.
Selecting Objects
When you run an edit command you have to select the objects that you want to edit.
There are a few ways to select objects:

 You can click one by one the objects you want to select.
 Crossing method. With this method you have to set a rectangle by setting the two opposite
corners of the rectangle. Then all the objects that are included entirely in the rectangle or have an
intersection point with the rectangle, will be selected.
 Window method. Similar to the crossing method, but only the objects that are included entirely in
the rectangle will be selected.
Edit Commands
In order to edit designed objects, most often you will run the specified command and then select the
objects you want to edit. The same procedure applies when you want to create new objects from one or
more drawing objects.
Alternatively, you can choose first the objects and then run the command. However not every command
accepts preselected objects. Also not every command accepts multiple selected objects.
Commands can be used to edit objects in your drawing. For example, you can split a line into two smaller
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lines, delete a circle etc. The commands are the following:
1. Move
With the move command you can move one or more drawing objects. After selecting the objects or
object, define two points that define the distance and the direction of the movement. The first point
defines the beginning of the "movement vector" and the second the end of the vector.
2. Copy
With the copy command you can copy one or more objects of the drawing. The user must select the
objects to copy, and then the user is prompted to select two points. These two points define the "copy
vector" and can either belong to the selected objects or not.The first point specifies the beginning of the
"copy vector" and the second point the end of it.
3. Rotate
With rotate command you can rotate one or more objects around a base point.
First you have to select the object or objects and then specify the base point.Then you have to select an
angle in radians to rotate the object.
Original Text Rotated text by 45 deg
4. Mirror
Objects can be reflected about an axis defined by the user. First you have to select the objects you want
to mirror. Then you have to set the axis, by setting the first point of mirror line and then the second. At
this point you have to choose if the source objects will be deleted or not.
5. Scale
With scale command you can increase or decrease the size of one or more objects. First you have to select
one or more objects. Then you have to pick one point, which is going to be the base point. Next step is to
specify the scale factor.
6. Trim
First select the objects that define the cutting edges at which you want to trim an object and then the
object. Objects that can be trimmed include arcs, circles, elliptical arcs, lines. Notice that the trim
command does not function if the objects do not intersect. At the example below there are some lines
that were trimmed.
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7. Array
Creates multiple copies of objects in an array pattern. The patterns are rectangular array and the polar
array. With the rectangular array you can create an array defined by a number of rows and columns of
copies of the selected object. First you have to select the objects.Then you have to define number of rows
and number of columns of the rectangle, the distance between rows and the distance between columns.
8. Extend
With extend command you can extend lines, arcs, polylines until they intersect with some other object
which is used as limit of the extension. First you have to select the objects that constitute the limits of the
extension. Then you have to choose a point at an object that you want to extend. If the object you want
to extend does not intersect with above objects then nothing will happen.
9. Text Edit
With this command, you can edit the text content of a text object.
10. Erase
With the erase command you can delete one or more objects of the drawing. If you want to erase
multiple objects you have to execute the select method. After the erase command, the objects no longer
exist in the document or in the collection they belonged to, however the objects still exist as deleted
objects in memory. So with undo command you can get them back to the drawing.
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Undo Redo
Drawing mode has its own local undo (1) redo (2) stack which is reset after leaving the drawing mode.
Object Snaps
An Object Snap (Osnap) specifies a snap point on some part of an object. An Osnap mode will remain
active until you turn it off.
Each Osnap has its own symbol when it is active. The screenshots below show an example of the related
Osnap:
1. Endpoint: The Endpoint Osnap snaps to the end points of lines and arcs and to polyline vertices. This
is one of the most useful and commonly used Osnaps.
2. Midpoint: The Midpoint Osnap snaps to the mid points of lines and arcs and to the midpoint of
polyline segments.
3. Nearest: The Nearest Osnap snaps to the nearest point on a drawing object. This Osnap is useful if
you want to make sure that a picked point lies on a drawing object but you don't necessarily mind
exactly where it is located.
4. Perpendicular: The Perpendicular Osnap snaps to a point which forms a perpendicular with the
selected object.
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5. Intersection: The Intersection Osnap snaps to the physical intersection of any two drawing objects
(i.e. where lines, arcs or circles etc. cross each other) and to polyline vertices.
6. Center: The Center Osnap snaps to the centre of a circle, arc or polyline arc segment. The cursor must
pass over the circumference of the circle or the arc so that the centre can be found.
7. Quadrant: The Quadrant Osnap snaps to one of the four circle quadrant points located at north,
south, east and west or 90, 270, 0 and 180 degrees respectively.
8. Node (point): The Node Osnap snaps to the center of a Point object.
9. Tangent: The Tangent Osnap snaps to a tangent point on a circle. This Osnap works in two ways. You
can either draw a line from a point to the tangent point or you can draw a line from a tangent point,
the latter is referred to as the "Deferred Tangent" snap mode.
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10. Extension: When the Extension Osnap is enabled and a user is passed over a line or arc temporary
Osnaps are added that are used to get a point on the extension of those segments. If the extension of
the two segments intersects, the user is getting the intersection of those segments. In particular,
when the cursor passes over an entity then little crosses appear that indicate that the extension of
this object is available. If the extension of a line or an arc is enabled (by passing the cursor over this
object) then the user can move the cursor close to the extension of this object. At that time the
extension line will appear providing also intersection extensions of multiple objects.
Object Properties
When selecting an object its properties appear at the properties tab. From the properties tab the user can
change several properties of an object such as the line type, the pen color, the pen width etc. The screen
shot below shows an example how to change the line type property of the selected line object.
Ortho Mode
A setting that limits pointing device input to horizontal or vertical. That means that if ortho mode is on
and you want to draw for example one line , this line will be parallel to x or y axis.
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Pan
With Pan command you can shift the location of your view. Also by pressing the mouse middle button
activates the pan command. Like panning with a camera, pan does not change the location or
magnification of objects on your drawing; it changes only the view. Pan command is a transparent
command. Transparent commands are commands that can be invoked when another command is active.
Calculations and Checks
This section describes the major calculations with the corresponding checks performed by ElectricalOM
Software:
Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Calculations

Voltage Drop Calculation
Maximum Phase Fault Current Calculation
Minimum Phase Fault Current Calculation
Earth Fault Current Calculation
Protective Device Disconnection Time at Earth Fault
Calculation of Touch Voltage
Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance (maxZs) Calculation
Transformer short circuit fault current calculation
References
Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Calculations

Design Current and Calculation of the Minimum Required Checks
Value of the Cable's Current Carrying Capacity
General
With:
the design current of the circuit
under consideration in Amperes
the nominal current or current setting
For ring socket circuit with Ιn = 30Α or 32Α
of the protective device protecting
the circuit against overcurrent in
Amperes
the minimum required value of the
cable’s current carrying capacity
Ring socket circuits otherwise
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the value of current tabulated in cable

tables
Correction factor for ambient
Grouped circuits not liable to
temperature
simultaneous overload
Correction factor for thermal
insulation
Correction factor for grouping
Correction factor for using
BS3036
General motor circuits Correction factor for ground
installations
Correction factor for
underground installation depth
Correction factor for ground
Star-Delta Motor Circuits soil thermal resistivity
Correction factor for triple
harmonic currents
Motor starter overload. By
default
With:
the design current of the circuit under

consideration in Amperes
the nominal current or current setting of
the protective device protecting the circuit
against overcurrent in Amperes
the minimum required value of the cable’s
current carrying capacity
Busbar Trunking System notes: With protection using a gG

(gI) fuse an additional correction factor, equal to 1.1, is used.
Note that using gI fuses for protection means reducing the
busbar trunking’s allowable current.
Voltage Drop Calculation

Voltage Drop Calculation Voltage Drop Limits Check
The software checks that the total voltage

For single phase circuits: drop (between the origin of the
installation and the circuit) is in the
voltage drop limit set.
The voltage drop limits can be user

defined or according to Table 4Ab in
For three phase circuits: Appendix 4 of BS7671.
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With:
the design current of the circuit under
consideration in Amperes
the tabulated resistance/reactance of the
conductor taken from the tables 4D1B–4J4B
of BS 7671
the power factor of the load of the circuit
the temperature correction factor (according
to BS 7671 Appendix 4)
the circuit length in meters
Note: For unbalanced 3 phase circuits, current will be flowing in

the neutral conductor as illustrated in the phasor diagram
below. The voltage drop in each phase is calculated by summing
of the vectors of the phase and the neutral voltage drops.
Maximum Phase Fault Current Calculation

Maximum Phase Fault Current Calculation Protective Device Breaking Capacity
Check
The total impedance is the sum of the impedances of the

conductors from the origin of the installation to the circuit
The software acts according to
under consideration. For single phase circuits, the maximum
regulation (434.5.1), to check the
fault current is between the phase and the neutral and in three
Breaking Capacity of the protective
phase circuits it is when all phases are shorted (symmetrical
device:
current). The total impedance is that with operating
temperature 20οC (lower temperature means lower
resistance).
In particular:
For single phase circuits:
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For three phase circuits:
With:
the phase to neutral voltage
the impedance corrected at 20 oC
the impedance of the phase conductor
the impedance of the neutral conductor
the external impedance (from the
starting point of the circuit up to the
origin of the installation)
The voltage factor Cmax is to take into
account the worst case voltage
variations conditions in a low voltage
installation, specified in BS EN 60909 as
1.1 (optional factor)
Minimum Phase Fault Current Calculation

Minimum Phase Fault Current Calculation Adiabatic Check of the Phase Conductor
During Phase Fault
The type of the circuit will determine how the minimum

phase fault current will be calculated. It is done according to The Software acts according to regulation
IET Electrical Guidance Note 1, using the factors in Table E2 (434.5.2), in order make the adiabatic check
to calculate the maximum impedance of the conductor. i.e whether or not the heat energy
flowing during the time taken for the
Single phase circuits: protective device to trip, exceeds the
conductor withstand .
Three phase and Neutral circuits: With:
the maximum permissible

t
disconnection time in seconds
k the cable factor
Three phase (without neutral) circuits: the cross sectional area of the
S
conductor mm2
I the minimum phase fault current
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The software compares the maximum

permissible disconnection time with the
With: time taken from the time-current curve of
the protective device at the phase fault to
the phase to neural voltage
find if the adiabatic check stands.
the phase to phase voltage
Note: For disconnection times less than 0.1
the impedance of the phase sec, the software checks for available
conductor Let‐Through energy characteristics of the
the impedance of the neutral protective device at the calculated fault
conductor current and uses them during the adiabatic
the external impedance check.
The voltage factor Cmin is to take

into account the worst case
voltage variations conditions in a
low voltage installation, specified
in BS EN 60909 as 0.95 (optional
factor)
Earth Fault Current Calculation

Earth Fault Current Calculation Adiabatic Check of the Protective
Conductor During Earth Fault
ΤΤ Earthing System:
The software, in accordance with
regulation (543.1.3), makes use of the
earth fault current, together with the
operating time that has been found
from the time-current curve of the
With: protective device, in order to obtain a
the phase to neutral voltage lower bound on the cross-sectional
area of the protective conductor (CPC):
the impedance of the supply
the impedance of the earthing
electrode
the impedance of the phase
conductor With:
the impedance of the CPC the minimum cross-sectional area of
the protective conductor in mm2
The voltage factor Cmin is to take
into account the worst case k the cable factor
voltage variations conditions in a
low voltage installation, specified If the operating time is less than 0.1
in IEC 60909 as 0.95 sec, then
Is the let-through energy
characteristic of the protective
device
ΤN Earthing Systems:
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Otherwise,
I is the earth fault current
is the operating time taken from
t the time-current curve of the
With: protective device
the phase to neutral voltage
Note: If the protective device is an RCD
the exterior impedance or RCCB, then the software makes the
the impedance of the phase check using for t the operating time of
conductor the RCD or RCCB.
the impedance of the protective Note: Impedances under fault
CPC conditions are calculated in
The voltage factor Cmin is to take accordance with Guidance Note 1:
into account the worst case voltage Table E2.
variations conditions in a low
voltage installation, specified in IEC
60909 as 0.95
Protective Device Disconnection Time at Earth Fault

Protective Device Disconnection Time in the Event of Earth Fault Maximum Permitted
Disconnection Time in
the Event of Earth Fault
The maximum permitted disconnection time in the event of earth fault is
determined by the time-current curve of the protective device. This can be The maximum
examined in detail in the Discrimination Study Module, shown below: permitted disconnection
time during earth fault is
compared to the
disconnection time
calculated during earth
fault.
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Calculation of Touch Voltage

Calculation of the Touch Voltage Limit Verification of the Touch Voltage Limit
ΤΤ Earthing System, with RCD: The software, in accordance with

regulation 411.5.3, verifies that the touch
voltage does not surpass the allowable
limit:
ΤΤ Earthing System, without RCD:
ΤN Earthing Systems: Where:

is the maximum touch voltage as it has
been defined by the user
With:
Note:
For TT earthing system, the software
calculates this value in order to satisfy
And with: check for touch voltage.
the nominal sensitivity of the RCD Note:
the current causing the operation of the
protective device at the maximum time
threshold The value of ZA is verified that is less than
200 Ω, as recommended in the ON SITE
the external impedance GUIDE, Section 10.3.5.
the impedance of the earthing electrode

the impedance of the phase conductor
the impedance of the protective conductor
Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Calculation

Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Calculation Maximum Earth Fault Loop
Impedance Check
The calculation of max Zs is made in order to verify that the protective

device functions within time limits during earth fault.
The maximum impedance during earth fault, max Zs, is calculated from with:
the time-current curve of the protective device.
After the user has defined the protective device’s operating time limits where
during earth fault, the software finds from the time-current curve of the the external impedance,
protective device the corresponding current ImaxZs, and calculates max the impedance of the phase
Zs, as below: conductor,
the impedance of the protect
conductor.
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Note: For TT Systems Zs includes

also the impedance of the
earthing electrode.
where:
The nominal ac rms line voltage to Earth in volts
Uo
(V) ,
The minimum voltage factor to take account of
Cmin
voltage variations. Cmin = 0.95
The current causing the operation of the
protective device at the maximum time
threshold, calculated from the time-current
curve of the device.
Short-Circuit Maximum Peak Value for Busbar Trunking Systems

Short-circuit Maximum Peak Value for Busbar Trunking Systems
The permissible peak current, peak l, of the Busbar Trunking System must be greater than the peak value
of the assumed asymmetrical short-circuit current, asymm. Isc.
The value of the asymmetrical short-circuit current is obtained from the value of the symmetrical short-
circuit current, Isc, multiplied by a standardized asymmetry factor (k).
The first value of the 1st short-circuit asymmetry peak in the transient state is the one that is taken into
account.
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Reference: Coordination and protection of busbar distribution - Schneider Electric
Transformer short circuit fault current calculation

The transformer fault level calculator assumes that the transformer is supplied from an infinite bus. In
other words, the fault level on the primary side of the transformer is considered to be infinite. Note that
this assumption will give the worse case fault level on the secondary side of the transformer, which is
sufficient for sizing of equipment according to fault rating.
Parameters:
 Transformer rating (S): Rating in kVA.
 Voltage rating (V): Voltage rating of the secondary windings.
 Impedance (Z%): Per-unit impedance of the transformer in %. Typically 4% to 10%.
The transformer short circuit current is calculated as follows:

Ip (kA) = (S×100)/ (√3×V×Z%)
References
References
1. BS 7671
2. IET on Site Guide BS 7671
3. IET Electrical Guidance Notes 1-8
4. IET ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION DESIGN GUIDE 3nd Edition
5. CENELEC - TR 50480
Warnings Environment
Problems with the current implementation of the model are indicated in the Warnings Environment.
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The warnings environment can be filtered easily, so that the engineer can focus on warnings of a
particular type, or so that only the warnings associated with the selected circuit appear. The environment
gives the user the option of filtering warnings by severity (critical, important, simple) (3) and/or the type
(load, voltage drop, discrimination, other) (4). The user can choose to display only the warnings associated
with the node that is selected in the tree view, by clicking on the Selected element only (5) option.
The total number of warnings is given by (1). The total number of critical warnings is given by (2).
Each of the warnings appearing in the list (7) indicates the originating circuit, the severity of the problem,
and is accompanied by a brief description. With a double-click on a particular warning the user is brought
to the configuration of the originating circuit to make changes and resolve the problem. Also the engineer
is able to print the warnings list by clicking the Print button (6). Note that an element that has a warning
associated with it is marked in red in the tree network view.
Warnings are grouped into three severity categories: Critical, Important and Simple.
Critical
Important
Simple
Critical
Critical warnings are those that have to be resolved. The user will not be able to move forward to the
completion of the study if critical warnings are outstanding. These warnings have primarily to do with
errors found by checks to the model, and for project configurations out of compliance with regulation.
Voltage Drop Check

Voltage Drop Within Final Circuit for a Private Supply
Touch Voltage Limit Check
Ring Sockets Check
RCD Device Required for Circuit Check
Maximum Permitted Disconnection Time at Earth Fault Check
CPC Adiabatic Check
Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Check
Design Current and Current Curring Capacity Checks
Phase Conductor Adiabatic Check
Busbar Trunking System Short-Circuit Peak Withstand Check
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Circuit's Protective Device Check
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Incomer Protective Device Check
Rating of the Incomer Switch/Isolator Check
Rating of the Incomer Overcurrent Protective Device Check
Neutral Conductor Current Carrying Capacity Check
Neutral Current Protective Device Rating Check
Motor Starter Overload Check
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UPS Power Rating Check

Transfer Switch Load Rating Check
Source Load Capacity Check
Source Earthing Conductor Adiabatic Check
Voltage Drop Check

Voltage drop warnings will appear when the voltage drop between the Main Supply and a downstream
circuit exceeds the voltage drop limit. To correct the problem, reconsider the cable sizes of the offending
circuit, or the cable sizes of circuits upstream from it. Values that affect the voltage drop calculation are
the design current (Ib), the circuit length and the cable size. The power factor and other correction factors
such as circuit grouping and ambient temperature also take part in the voltage drop calculation. Note that
you can change the voltage drop limit for each circuit under the Volt drop tab in the circuit editor.
See the Voltage drop calculations
To examine the voltage drop calculations go to the Volt drop tab at the properties area as shown below:
Voltage Drop Within Final Circuit for a Private Supply
When the voltage drop limits selected during the main source editing are for a private low voltage supply,
the software checks the voltage drop within a final circuit according to Table 4Ab in Appendix 4 of
BS7671:2008 + A3:2015.
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Touch Voltage Limit Check

The touch voltage is used to determine the magnitude of the voltage to which the person at risk would be
subjected in the event of an earth fault occurring in an installation. By assuming values of body resistance,
the touch voltage concept can be extended to give an indication of the severity of the electric shock that
could be experienced by that person.
The connection of all exposed- and extraneous-conductive-parts, either directly or indirectly, to a

common terminal, i.e. the main earthing terminal of the installation, leads to the creation of touch
voltages in the event of an earth fault and hence to the shock risk. In a correctly designed and erected
electrical installation such a shock risk is not eliminated. Where the protective measure is automatic
disconnection of supply then in the event of an earth fault, the speed of disconnection should be such
that should the person at risk experience an electric shock it will not be a harmful one.
In order to resolve touch voltage warnings, it recommended that the engineer revise the CPC or the
protective device. It is also recommended that the user make sure that the upstream circuits have been
set correctly.
See the touch voltage calculations
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Ring Sockets
For ring sockets, special check settings that consider the cross sectional area of the phase and neutral
conductor and the protective device rating are applied by default. The designer can omit these checks
through the project info and options, under the Checks tab, as shown below.
Checks related to ring socket circuits:
Protective device rating check

Ph/N conductor C.S.A check
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Protective Device Rating Check

Ring sockets require 30A or 32A protective device. To bypass the check and accept any rating see the ring
sockets check options.
Recommendation to resolve the error:

Use a 30A or 32A protective device.
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Ph/N Conductor C.S.A Check

Ring sockets require 2.5mm2 phase conductor (or 1.5mm2 for MICC). To bypass the check and accept any
rating see the ring sockets check options.

Use a 2.5mm2 phase conductor (or 1.5mm2 for MICC).
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RCD Device Required for Circuit Check

For RCD use, BS7671 states the following regulation:
411.3.3 Additional protection.
In alternating current systems, additional protection by means of an RCD in accordance with Regulation
415.1 shall be provided for:
(i) socket-outlets with a rated current not exceeding 20 A, and
(ii) mobile equipment with a current rating not exceeding 32 A for use outdoors.
An exception to (i) is permitted:

(a) where, other than for an installation in a dwelling, a documented risk assessment determines that the
RCD protection is not necessary, or
(b) for a specific labelled or otherwise suitably identified socket-outlet provided for connection of a
particular item of equipment.
NOTE 1: See also Regulations 314.1(iv) and 531.2.4 concerning the avoidance of unwanted tripping.
NOTE 2: The requirements of Regulation 411.3.3 do not apply to FELV systems according to Regulation
411.7 or reduced low voltage systems according to Regulation 411.8.
NOTE 3: See Appendix 2, Item 10 with respect to risk assessment.
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Maximum Permitted Disconnection Time at Earth Fault Check

The software checks that the protective device operates within the maximum permitted disconnection
time in the event of an earth fault.

Revise the CPC or the protective device. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been set correctly.
See Protective device disconnection time at Earth Fault
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CPC Adiabatic Check

The software checks that the cross sectional area of the protective conductor is large enough that the
protective device functions within time limits in the event of an earth fault.
See Earth Fault Current Calculation

Revise the CPC or the protective device. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been set correctly.
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Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance Check

The software calculates the maximum loop impedance to check that the protective device functions
within time limits in the event of an earth fault.
See Maximum Earth Fault Loop Impedance (max Zs) Calculation

Revise the protective device, Z1 (impedance of the phase conductor), Z2 (impedance of the CPC). Also
make sure the upstream circuits have been set correctly.
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Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Checks

The software checks that the phase conductor has a current carrying capacity not less than the design
current.
See the Design Current and Current Carrying Capacity Calculations

Revise the C.S.A of the phase conductor or the protective device rating. Also make sure that correction
factors are applied correctly.
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Phase Conductor Adiabatic Check

The software checks that the circuit protective device has a disconnection time satisfying the phase
conductor adiabatic check.
See Minimum Phase Fault Current Calculation

Revise the phase conductor or the protective device. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been set
correctly.
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Busbar Trunking System Short-Circuit Peak Withstand Check

Where a manufacturer specific busbar trunking system is used, the software checks that the short-circuit
maximum peak value is not greater than the withstand value given by the manufacturer.
See Short-Circuit Maximum Peak Value for Busbar Trunking Systems

Revise the selection of the busbar trunking system. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been set
correctly.
91 / 115
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Circuit's Protective Device Check

The software checks that the ultimate breaking capacity of the circuit's protective device (Icu) is not less
than the maximum phase fault current at the starting point.

Revise the circuit's protective device breaking capacity. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been
set correctly.
See the calculation details
Ultimate Breaking Capacity of the Incomer Protective Device Check

The software checks that the ultimate breaking capacity of the incomer protective device (Icu) is not less
than the maximum phase fault current.

Revise the incomer protective device breaking capacity. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been
set correctly.
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Rating of the Incomer Switch/Isolator Check

The software checks that the incomer isolation/disconnection device rating is greater than or equal to the
design current (Ib).

Select an incomer with rating greater than or equal to the design current value (Ib).
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Rating of the Incomer Overcurrent Protective Device Check

The software checks that the rating of the incomer overcurrent protective device is not lower than the
design current (Ib).

Revise the rating of the incomer overcurrent protective device.
Neutral Conductor Current Carrying Capacity Check

When the engineer chooses to size the neutral conductor separately, in a three-phase + neutral single-
core cable, the software checks if the neutral conductor's current carrying capacity is equal to or greater
than the calculated neutral current.

Revise the C.S.A of the neutral conductor or try to reduce the high neutral current due to the high third
harmonics current and/or unbalancing of the loads.
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Neutral Current Protective Device Rating Check

The software checks whether the neutral current is over the circuit's protective device rating due to high
third harmonics current and/or unbalancing of the loads.

Revise the protective device rating or try to reduce the high neutral current due to the high third
harmonics current and/or unbalancing of the loads.
95 / 115
Motor Starter Overload Setting Check

The software checks that the motor starter overload rating is greater than or equal to the design current
(Ib) of the motor circuit.

Revise the motor starter overload rating to a value greater than or equal to the design current (Ib) of the
motor circuit.
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UPS Power Rating Check

The software checks the UPS rating and provides a warning when this is lower than the design current of
the circuit.

Revise the UPS apparent power value.
97 / 115
Transfer Switch Load Rating Check

The software checks the transfer switch load rating and provides a warning when this is lower than the
design current of the circuit.

Revise the transfer switch load rating.
Source Load Capacity Check

The software checks the active source load capacity and provides a warning when this is lower than the
active network's total design current.

Increase the source load capacity or apply more diversity to the total design current.
98 / 115
Source Earthing Conductor Adiabatic Check

If the engineer has chosen to set the earthing conductor at the source level (the starting point of the
installation), the software checks that the earthing conductor has a cross-sectional area satisfying the
adiabatic check.

Revise the earthing conductor.
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Important
Important warnings should be resolved in good practice but can be left unresolved for the completion of
the study. They are warnings about potential hazards to the installation.
Voltage Drop over the Split Limit Set Check

Energy Based Discrimination Check
Discrimination During Overcurrent Check
Discrimination During Earth Fault Check
Motor Starting Check
Service Breaking Capacity of the Circuit Protective Device Check
Service Breaking Capacity of the Incomers Protective Device Check
Installation in Conduit Check
Installation in Trunking Check
Installation Compliance with Regulations Check
Harmonic Content in Circuit Check
Current Carrying Capacity of the Tails Conductor Check
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Voltage Drop over the Split Limit Set Check

For distribution circuits there is an option to split the voltage drop limit between the distribution circuit
and its final circuits. This split limit is not a regulation requirement but is set by the designer to warn him
or her about circuits exceeding the specified voltage drop percentage value, allowing for finer control of
the voltage drop across circuits. The software provides a warning when the voltage drop of the circuit is
over the split limit set.

Revise the conductor or set a higher voltage drop split limit for the particular circuit.
Energy Based Discrimination Check

When the manufacturer's energy-based discrimination data are available and the fault condition is
causing operation of the protective device below 0.1 sec, the checks are performed based on the
manufacturer's discrimination tables. The software provides a warning when the discrimination check fails
against an up-stream device.

Revise the protective device.
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Discrimination During Overcurrent Check

When the manufacturer's energy-based discrimination data are not available or the fault condition is
causing operation of the protective device over 0.1 sec, ElectricalOM performs discrimination checks
between the time-amperes curves of the protective devices, where overlapping curves indicate a
discrimination problem. The check is made up to the value of the maximum prospective short-circuit
current at the downstream protective device.

Revise the protective device so the curves are not overlapping.
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Incomer Protective Device Discrimination During Overcurrent Check

Discrimination checks are also made for incomer overcurrent protective devices. See Discrimination
During Overcurrent.
Discrimination During Earth Fault Check

Where an RCD device has not been installed, the check is performed in the same way as for the
overcurrent protective device, but considering the earth fault levels. Otherwise the check is made
comparing the RCD curves.

Revise the protective device so the curves are not overlapping.
103 / 115
Incomer Protective Device Discrimination During Earth Fault Check

Discrimination checks are also made for incomer RCD devices. See Discrimination During Earth Fault.
Motor Starting Check

Motor circuits require that their protective devices have specific characteristics to avoid inadvertent
operation during the motor starting period. The check made is based on the selected protective device
and the motor's starting current and starting duration settings. Based on these parameters the motor
starting curve is calculated and compared to the protective device curve. Overlapping between the curves
indicates inadvertent operation.

Revise the protective device so the motor and protective device curves are not overlapping.
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Service Breaking Capacity of the Circuit Protective Device Check

The software checks that the service breaking capacity of the protective device (Ics) is not less than the
circuit's maximum phase fault current.

Revise the circuit's protective device Ics. Also make sure the upstream circuits have been set correctly.
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Service Breaking Capacity of the Incomers Protective Device Check

The software checks that the service breaking capacity of the incomer protective device (Ics) is not less
than the maximum phase fault current of one of the sub circuits.

Revise the incomer protective device Ics.
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Installation in Conduit Check

Where the installation incorporates conduit, a check is made that the conduit is sized to accommodate
the makeup of the conductors. Calculation is based on the IET Guidance Note 1, Appendix A.

Revise the conduit size.
Installation in Trunking Check

Where the installation incorporates trunking, a check is made that the trunking is sized to accommodate
the makeup of the conductors. Calculation is based on the IET Guidance Note 1, Appendix A.

Revise the trunking size.
107 / 115
Installation Compliance with Regulations Check

Installations in wall, floor, or ceiling must comply with the regulations 522.6.202,522.6.203,522.6.204 in
BS 7671:2008 (2015).

Check the Comply with regulations box, to declare awareness about the specific regulations.
108 / 115
Harmonic Content in Circuit Check

When high harmonic content is present in the circuit, the software checks that overcurrent protection is
provided for the neutral conductor (BS 7671 Reg. 431.2.3).
109 / 115

Use a 4 pole CPD.
Current Carrying Capacity of the Tails Conductor Check

If the engineer chooses to set the tails conductor and use the protection device from the supplier, the
software checks that the current carrying capacity of the tails conductor agrees with the rating of the
supplier's protective device.

Revise the tails conductor so that It >= In.
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Simple
Simple warnings have to do with minor issues that won't cause serious problems to the project and that
do not have to be resolved, but that could indirectly bring about more serious issues in the later stages of
implementation.
Load Balance Check

Power Factor Correction Unit Usage Check
Existing Installation - Exclude from the Checks
Inactive Circuit Check
Load Balance Check

The software provides a warning if the load in the distribution circuit is not balanced.

Review the allocation of loads in each phase.
See more details here
111 / 115
Power Factor Correction Unit Usage Check

When the calculated power factor (cοs φ) at the main distribution circuit is calculated to be less than 0.85,
the software notifies the designer that it is appropriate to install a power factor correction unit.

Install a power factor correction unit to correct the total power factor (cοs φ).
112 / 115
Existing Installation Warning

If the user sets a distribution circuit as an existing installation then no checks are performed. A warning
indicates that this distribution circuit has been excluded from calculations and checks.
113 / 115
Inactive Circuit Warning

When a circuit is marked as inactive, the softwares warns the engineer about this state. Inactive circuits
are excluded from the load summations, calculations and checks. This functionality allow the designer to
model the on/off state of a circuit for a particular scenario.
114 / 115
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Electrical OM Getting Started

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Tutorial - Quick Start .................................................................................................. 5

Separate Conductor ............................................................................. 48

CPC Adiabatic Check ........................................................................................ 87

Tutorial - Quick Start

Setting the Schematic Environment Settings

Navigating the Schematic: Pan, Zoom

Setting the Default Symbols

Creating New Symbols

Project info and options

include his or her logo by clicking the image below (2).

Navigating the schematic

 Zoom in: Glide thumb and index finger apart.

Creating New Symbols

Step 1 - Design the main structure of the installation:

Step 4 - Resolve warnings and discrimination problems

Step 5 - Finalize design and print reports

Main supply characteristics:

G phase conduit in a wall

Main Distribution Board - MDB:

Basement distribution board- DB-G:

Floor level distribution board- DB-F:

Step 1 - Design the Main Structure of the Installation

Add and Edit the Main Supply

Add the Main Supply

Edit the Main Supply

Add the Main Supply

Edit the Main Supply

Type: Public supply (1)

Add the Main and Sub Distribution Boards

Add the Main Distribution Board

Add Sub Distribution Boards

Add the Main Distribution Board

Distribution Board, 3Ph to insert a three phase Main Distribution Board.

Add Sub Distribution Boards

Repeat to add the second sub distribution board from 1.L2.

Set the Circuit Description

Set the Board Ways and Style

Add Final Circuits

circuits from the sub distribution boards.

Add a Final Circuit

Edit the Final Circuit's Basic Information

Add a Final Circuit

Edit the Final Circuit's Basic Information

Set the Description, the Kind and the Load Details

Display Calculation Errors and Recommendations

Step 2 - Calculate the Maximum Demand and Apply Load Balancing

Apply Diversity Factors

Apply Diversity Factors

Set the Protective Devices

Set the Cable Size

Minimum Conductor Sizes

Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC)

Minimum Conductor Sizes

Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC)

Step 4 - Resolve Calculation Warnings and Discrimination Problems

Circuit with Critical Errors

Voltage Drop Errors

Voltage Drop Limits