Commercial electrical involves installing, inspecting, and repairing electrical systems in larger properties like offices, malls, medical offices, restaurants, and retail stores. Commercial electricians often work at night and early in the morning to avoid disrupting business operations.
Similar to residential electricians, commercial contractors must meet compliance standards and understand all aspects of wiring. However, they must also understand the specific electricity and power requirements of a particular workplace. For more details, visit https://www.ampi-electricinc.com/boca-raton-electrician/.
There are several wiring methods that can be used in commercial electrical installations. Each of these has its own benefits and disadvantages. The type of wiring method that is chosen can depend on several factors, including cost, safety, and the ability to accommodate future expansions in the electrical system.
One of the most common types of wiring in commercial buildings is parallel wiring, which is connected together so that each device can be powered by a single circuit. This type of wiring is most popular because it provides more flexibility and allows for easier troubleshooting. It also allows for a higher amount of power to be provided.
Another type of commercial electrical wiring is called series wiring, which is more complicated and less flexible. This is more likely to be found in older buildings or industrial settings. In this type of wiring, the phase and neutral conductors are branched in junction boxes. This allows for more devices to be powered by a single circuit, but it can also create a potential fire hazard if one of the devices is damaged.
In raceway and conduit wiring, electrical cables are run through a system of metal or PVC conduits or tubing. These systems are field-fabricated and based on design plans and specifications. Each raceway and conductor installation consists of multiple insulated phase, neutral, and equipment ground conductors.
Other types of commercial electrical wiring include surface conduit, which involves running cables on the surface of a wall or ceiling. The cables are then attached to wood, porcelain, or plastic cleats that are fixed at regular intervals. This type of wiring is often used in industrial environments because it can protect the cables from damage caused by rodents.
The third type of commercial electrical wiring is known as “batten wiring.” This method uses insulated wires that are fitted into wooden battens. These battens are fastened to the walls and ceiling using rust-resistant nails. The cables are then taken through the cleats, and the cleats are secured with link clips. This type of wiring is inexpensive and easy to install, but it is not suitable for permanent use.
Wiring Materials
There are a number of different types of wiring materials used in commercial electrical installations. The type of material used will depend on the requirements of the project. In some cases, the wiring material will also depend on whether it is a temporary or permanent installation. The different types of wiring materials are rated for their resistance to heat, corrosion, and other factors that can damage the cable or cause it to malfunction.
The most common wiring materials in commercial applications are copper and aluminum conductors. These are commonly available in a variety of sizes and are used for a wide range of purposes. For example, copper is commonly used for power cables and low-level measurement or signal wiring. On the other hand, aluminum is used for bulk power transmission and large feeder circuits that require heavy current loads.
Conductors are insulated with various materials, such as plastic, rubber, and neoprene, depending on the specific needs of the project. In some cases, the insulation may be covered with a metal sheath to protect it from mechanical damage or chemical effects. This is often the case with underground or hazardous-environment cables.
When conducting wires are running behind walls or through ceiling surfaces, they are referred to as “concealed conduit wiring.” This type of wiring is typically used in industrial facilities or for interlinking machinery in factories. The cables can be run on porcelain, wood, or plastic cleats. These cleats are fixed to the wall or ceiling at regular intervals, and the cables are fastened to them using link clips.
Another type of wiring that is popular in the commercial industry is known as mineral-insulated and metal-sheathed (MI). This type of wire is a good choice for emergency systems and can reduce electromagnetic fields in sensitive areas. It is also suitable for use in direct burial or dry conduit runs.
The raceway and conductor method is commonly used for larger commercial buildings. It consists of metallic or nonmetallic conduit or tubing with multiple insulated phase, neutral, and equipment ground conductors. The individual conductors are usually field-fabricated to match the building’s design and specifications.
Code Requirements
Electrical setups in commercial spaces differ from residential structures in several ways, including power requirements and safety standards. Commercial electrical installations must also provide sufficient lighting and support a range of equipment, from large machinery to computers and office technology. The setup must also include a backup power supply in case of a blackout or other disaster, and the electrical system should meet specific safety standards to protect occupants from hazards such as shock and fire.
A qualified electrical contractor will assess a commercial space’s power needs, determine the building’s electrical load, and design an efficient and reliable system. During this process, the electrician or contractor will consider factors such as the number and types of devices to be powered, the building’s function and use, and the amount of natural light available. They will then determine how to distribute the electrical energy throughout the building, from a main panel to subpanels and wiring.
The National Electric Code, or NFPA 70, contains the minimum standards for safe electrical installations. This standard, along with the International Fire Code and the International Property Maintenance Code, applies to all new construction, alterations, and repairs to electrical components, appliances, fixtures, and equipment.
Unlike residential projects, where the electrical wires are hidden behind walls or ceilings, commercial projects require an open layout that allows inspectors to verify the quality of the work. Having open and easily accessible wiring is also important because it can help identify any splices that are exposed or incorrect, which can pose a fire hazard and must be fixed immediately to prevent accidents.
Certifications
A commercial electrical project can be quite different from a residential one due to the scale and types of equipment used. It’s not uncommon for commercial projects to have many more circuits, larger breaker systems, and much more complex machinery. Because of this, it’s important that a certified electrician is working on these installations, as they have the expertise required to work with such complex wiring and power outlets.
It’s also crucial for businesses to ensure their electrical systems are safe. To do this, they will need to carry out EICR testing on their premises. This is a full-scale inspection of the wiring and installation and will detail any issues that could pose a risk to the business. This will need to be done by a qualified electrician, and businesses should arrange for this to take place at least every 5 years.
The Commercial Wiring Certificate is the second tier in understanding the National Electric Code and covers such topics as conduit bending, installing raceways, and using the NEC to calculate wire sizing. This course is a must-take for any electrician who wants to advance their career to become a licensed journeyman or red-sealed master electrician.
To become a licensed journeyman electrician in Alaska, you need to have completed at least three years of experience as a registered apprentice electrician under the supervision of a contracting master electrician or have graduated from an approved program with more than 80 hours of electrical learning. Additionally, you must have completed a minimum of 30 hours of occupational safety and health administration training for the construction industry and NFPA 70E training on work protocols.
It’s also recommended that you obtain an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) on your commercial property once a year. This will help you ensure that your electrical system is safe, and if any issues are found, you can get them fixed promptly. These tests can prevent fires, electrocution, and other serious accidents from happening, so it’s vital that you don’t neglect them.
