Electrical Power, Motors, and Motor Controls - Intro Treatment (2.75 Contact Hours)

Learning Objectives for California Water Treatment – Electrical Power, Motors, and Motor Controls Module

Module 1: Electrical Power Basics and Generation

Describe how mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy in AC generators.
Distinguish between single-phase and three-phase power systems and explain how voltage is generated and transmitted.

Module 2: Transformers and Voltage Distribution

Identify the purpose and types of transformers (step-up, step-down, isolation) used in water treatment.
Explain how power is distributed from generation to end-users and the role of Delta and Wye configurations.

Module 3: Safety and Arc Flash Awareness

Define arc flash and explain its risks, causes, and mitigation methods.
Understand the role of arc-flash protection relays and one-line diagrams in system design.

Module 4: Circuit Breakers and Overcurrent Protection

List the components and types of circuit breakers, including thermal, magnetic, and thermal-magnetic types.
Calculate overcurrent protection settings and describe dual-element protection strategies for motors.

Module 5: Motor Starters and Control Centers

Describe the components and function of a motor control center (MCC) and NEMA motor starter sizes.
Explain the operation of full voltage (DOL), reduced voltage, and solid-state starting methods.

Module 6: Overload Protection and Trip Curves

Differentiate between thermal, bi-metal, and solid-state overload relays and explain how they protect motors.
Interpret trip curves and understand inverse time delay behavior.

Module 7: Three-Phase and Single-Phase Motor Operation

Identify the major components of AC motors, including stators and squirrel cage rotors.
Understand slip, service factor, nameplate data, and proper testing techniques like using a megger and clamp-on ammeter.

Module 8: Reduced Voltage Starting and VFDs

Compare different reduced voltage starting methods: autotransformer, wye-delta, part winding, and soft starts.
Describe how VFDs optimize energy use and control torque for centrifugal and constant-torque loads.

Module 9: DC Motors and Specialized Applications

Explain the structure and use of DC motors in low-power or legacy systems, including common failure points and field winding functions.
Identify where DC motors are used in modern water treatment systems.

Module 10: Motor Operated Valves and Control Logic

Understand how motor operated valves (MOVs) function under open/close, throttling, and modulating control.
Describe push-button interlocks, reversing motor starters, and safe logic circuit design for motor direction control.