NVQ 2346-03 Level 3 Unit 108: Terminate and Connect Conductors Assessment Answers

In order to understand the termination and connection of conductors, you first need to understand the concept of a conductor. A conductor is a material that allows electrons to flow freely through it. This means that a current can pass through the conductor without any resistance. In electrical wiring, the purpose of a conductor is to allow electricity to flow from one point to another.

In order to ensure a safe and efficient electrical system, it is important to learn how to properly terminate and connect conductors. This process can seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it will become second nature. In this unit, we will take a step-by-step look at how to terminate and connect various types of conductors.

Assessment Activity 1: Evaluate and apply appropriate procedures to include.

Selecting appropriate tools/equipment to enable termination and connection

There are a variety of tools and equipment that can be used to terminate and connect conductors. The most important factor to consider when selecting the appropriate tool is the type of conductor you will be working with. For example, if you are working with copper wire, you will need a different tool than if you were working with aluminum wire.

Once you have determined the type of conductor you will be working with, the next step is to select the appropriate size and type of tool. The size of the tool will be determined by the gauge of the wire. For example, if you are working with a 14-gauge wire, you will need a smaller tool than if you were working with a 10-gauge wire. The type of tool will also depend on the type of conductor you are working with. Some tools are designed specifically for copper wire, while others are designed for aluminum wire.

There are a few different tools that you will need in order to properly terminate and connect conductors. These include:

• Wire strippers: Wire strippers are used to removing the insulation from the end of a wire. This exposes the bare conductor, which can then be connected to another conductor.
• Crimping tool: A crimping tool is used to secure a connector to the end of a wire. This creates a permanent connection that cannot be undone without damaging the wire.
• Wire cutters: Wire cutters are used to cut wires to the desired length. This is important when connecting multiple wires together, as you will want to make sure that all of the wires are the same length.
• Electrician’s scissors: Electrician’s scissors are used to cut through the insulation and other materials that can be difficult to cut with regular scissors.

Adopting appropriate PPE

When terminating and connecting conductors, it is important to use the appropriate tools and equipment. You should also adopt appropriate PPE to protect yourself from electrical shocks.

It is important to always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electricity. This includes:

• Hard hat: A hard hat should be worn when working in areas where there is a potential for falling objects.
• Safety glasses: Safety glasses should be worn at all times when working with electrical wiring.
• Rubber gloves: Rubber gloves should be worn when working with any type of conductor, as they will protect your hands from electrical shock.
• Long pants: long pants should be worn when working with electrical wiring to protect your legs from accidental shocks.
• Steel-toed boots: Steel-toed boots should be worn when working with electrical wiring to protect your feet from accidental shocks.

Following a safe system of work (e.g. risk assessment, method statement, permit to work procedure)

When terminating and connecting conductors, it is important to follow a safe system of work. This includes following a risk assessment, method statement, and permit to work procedure.

It is always important to assess the risks associated with any job before starting. When working with electricity, there are a number of hazards that need to be considered, including:

• Shock: Electric shock can cause serious injuries, including burns and cardiac arrest.
• Fire: Electrical fires can be very dangerous, and can result in extensive property damage.
• Falls: Falls from height are a common cause of injury when working with electrical wiring.

The best way to reduce the risk of these hazards is to follow a safe system of work. This includes adopting the appropriate PPE, using the correct tools and equipment, and following a proper procedure for working safely with electricity.

It is also important to remember that these hazards can be greatly reduced by working safely. Always take the time to properly assess the risks before starting any job, and take all necessary precautions to prevent injuries.

Assiessment Activity 2: Assess and confirm it is safe to complete termination and connection in terms of:

Checking for the presence of supply / carrying out safe isolation

Before starting any job, it is important to check for the presence of a supply. This can be done by checking for the presence of voltage with a test meter. Once you have confirmed that there is no voltage present, you can then safely isolate the circuit.

To safely isolate a circuit, you will need to remove the fuse or switch the circuit breaker to the “off” position. Once the circuit is isolated, you can then begin working on it.

When working with electricity, it is always important to take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries. Always check for the presence of a supply before starting any job, and isolate the circuit before beginning work.

Mechanical soundness of the electrical equipment to be connected to

When connecting electrical equipment, it is important to ensure that the equipment is mechanically sound. This includes checking for any damaged parts and making sure that all connections are secure.

It is also important to make sure that the equipment you are connecting is rated for the voltage and current of the circuit you are working on. Never connect equipment to a circuit that is not rated for the proper voltage and current.

Checking for unsafe situations

Before beginning any job, it is important to check for any unsafe situations. This includes checking for the presence of water, combustible materials, and other sources of ignition.

It is also important to make sure that all personnel is clear of the work area before starting. Only authorized personnel should be in the vicinity of an electrical work area.

Assiessment Activity 3: Terminate and connect cables and conductors in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions, BS 7671, and any relevant drawing or specification. Assess the following: Single-core (singles); Multicore insulated; PVC – PVC flat profile cable; MICC; Fire performance; SWA cable; GSWB galvanized steel wire braid; Data.

When terminating and connecting cables and conductors, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as well as BS 7671 (the British Standard for electrical wiring) and any relevant drawing or specification.

This means ensuring that all connections are made in the correct sequence and using the correct type of connector, screwdriver, and tool for the job. It is also important to ensure that all cables are adequately supported and that no strain is put on any of the connections.

By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure a safe and compliant electrical installation.

Single-core(singles)

Single-core cable, also known as singles, is a type of electrical cable that consists of a single conductor. This type of cable is often used for low-voltage applications such as lighting and security systems.

Multicore insulated

Multicore cable, also known as multiconductor cable, is a type of electrical cable that consists of multiple insulated conductors. This type of cable is often used for high-voltage applications such as power distribution.

PVC – PVC flat profile cable

PVC flat profile cable, also known as PVCfp cable, is a type of electrical cable that consists of multiple PVC-insulated conductors. This type of cable is often used for low-voltage applications, such as lighting and data networks.

MICC

MICC, or mineral-insulated copper-clad cable, is a type of electrical cable that consists of an inner conductor protected by an outer layer of copper. This type of cable is often used for high-voltage applications, such as power distribution.

Fire performance

Fire performance is an important consideration when choosing an electrical cable. The fire performance of a cable is determined by its ability to resist fire and the amount of time it takes for the fire to spread through the cable.

SWA cable

SWA, or steel wire armored, the cable is a type of electrical cable that consists of an inner conductor protected by an outer layer of steel. This type of cable is often used for high-voltage applications, such as power distribution.

GSWB galvanized steel wire braid

GSWB, or galvanized steel wire braid, is a type of electrical cable that consists of an inner conductor protected by an outer layer of galvanized steel. This type of cable is often used for high-voltage applications, such as power distribution.

Data

Data cables are used to transmit data signals between devices. The most common type of data cable is twisted-pair cable, which consists of two insulated copper conductors. Other types of data cables include coaxial cable and fiber-optic cable.

Assessment Activity 4: Connect to electrical equipment in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions, BS 7671, and any relevant drawing or specification. Assess the following:

BS 7671, the IET Wiring Regulations, clause 517.1.3 requires that where equipment is connected to a supply by means of an accessible plug, “the equipment shall be connected to the supply in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions”.

This means that it’s essential that you read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting your electrical equipment. In addition, any relevant drawing or specification should also be consulted in order to ensure that the correct wiring arrangements are made. Failing to do so could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Isolators/switches

An isolator is a device that is used to break the circuit between the live (energized) conductor and the earth conductor. This prevents any current from flowing through the circuit, which makes it safe to work on.

A switch is a device that is used to break the circuit between the live (energized) conductor and the load (appliance or equipment). This prevents any current from flowing through the circuit, which makes it safe to work on.

It’s important to note that an isolator should never be used as a switch, and vice versa. This is because they are designed for different purposes and have different safety characteristics.

When working with electrical equipment, it’s essential that you use the correct type of isolator or switch. Using the wrong type of device could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Socket outlets

A socket outlet is a type of electrical outlet that is used to plug-in appliances and equipment. There are a number of different types of socket outlets, including British Standard (BS), European Standard (Schuko), and American Standard (NEMA).

It’s important to use the correct type of socket outlet when plugging in appliances and equipment.

Distribution-boards / consumer control units

A distribution board, or consumer control unit, is a type of electrical panel that is used to distribute power to different parts of a building. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of distribution board is used for the application.

In order to select the correct distribution board, you need to consider a number of factors, including the voltage and current rating of the equipment, the size of the building, and the number of circuits that need to be supplied.

Luminaires

A luminaire is a type of light fitting that is used to provide illumination. There are a number of different types of luminaire, including incandescent, fluorescent, and LED.

When installing luminaires, it’s important to ensure that they are correctly earthed. Failing to do so could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Electric motors / motor control equipment

An electric motor is a device that is used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. This can be used to power a range of appliances and equipment, including pumps, fans, and compressors.

Motor control equipment is a type of electrical equipment that is used to control the operation of electric motors. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of motor control equipment is used for the application.

Overcurrent protective devices

Overcurrent protective devices, or circuit breakers, are a type of electrical device that is used to protect circuits from overloads. They are designed to automatically switch off the power supply when an overcurrent is detected.

It’s important to ensure that the correct type of overcurrent protective device is used for the application. Using the wrong type of device could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Earthing terminals

Earthing terminals are a type of electrical connector that is used to connect an electrical appliance or equipment to the earth conductor. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of earthing terminal is used for the application.

Control panels

A control panel is a type of electrical panel that is used to control the operation of an electric motor. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of control panel is used for the application.

In order to select the correct control panel, you need to consider a number of factors, including the voltage and current rating of the equipment, the type of motor, and the environment in which it will be used.

Data socket outlets or data connections

A data socket outlet, or data connection, is a type of electrical outlet that is used to connect computers and other devices to the internet. There are a number of different types of data socket outlets, including Ethernet, USB, and HDMI.

It’s important to use the correct type of data socket outlet when connecting devices to the internet. Using the wrong type of outlet could lead to problems with the connection and data loss.

Fire detection/alarm components

Fire detection/alarm components are a type of electrical equipment that is used to detect and alarm fires. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of fire detection/alarm component is used for the application.

Using the wrong type of component could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Other appropriate equipment (such as heating system components)

There are a number of other types of electrical equipment that can be used in an industrial application, including heating system components and control systems. It’s important to ensure that the correct type of equipment is used for the application.

Using the wrong type of equipment could lead to unsafe conditions and invalidate any insurance cover you have in place.

Assessment Activity 5: Terminate and connect conductors, using appropriate methods. Assess the following: Screwing; Crimping; Soldering; Non-screw compression; Insulation displacement.

To terminate a conductor, you must first cut it to the proper length. Strip off about 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of the conductor and twist the strands of wire together to form a tight joint. Solder the twisted strands and then apply heat-shrink tubing or electrical tape over the connection.

To connect two conductors, strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from each end of each conductor and twist the strands together. Solder the twisted strands and then apply heat-shrink tubing or electrical tape over the connection.

Screwing

Screwing is one of the most common methods used to terminate and connect conductors. It is fast and easy to do and requires no special tools or equipment. However, it is not as secure as other methods and can be susceptible to vibration.

Crimping

Crimping is a method of terminating and connecting conductors that uses a special tool to compress the conductor onto a connector. This method is more secure than screwing and is less susceptible to vibration. However, it is more time-consuming and requires the use of special tools.

Soldering

Soldering is the process of melting a metal alloy (solder) and using it to join two wires together. The solder forms a mechanical and electrical bond between the wire and the connector. Soldering is often used in electronics because it provides a reliable connection that can withstand high temperatures and voltage fluctuations. 

Non-screw compression

Non-screw compression is the process of using pressure to join two wires together. This method is often used in household appliances because it doesn’t require any specialized tools or equipment. Non-screw compression is not as reliable as soldering, because the connection can come undone if the pressure isn’t applied

Insulation displacement

Insulation displacement connectors (IDCs) are connectors that push the insulation of two wires together, allowing a metal conductor to make contact with the wire without stripping away the insulation. This is done by using a special blade that is inserted into a slot in the connector. As the blade is pushed into the slot, it pierces through the insulation and makes contact with the metal conductor inside.

Assessment Activity 6: Ensure that terminations and connections are electrically and mechanically sound (e.g. by simple inspecting and testing terminations).

Electrical and mechanical soundness of terminations and connections is essential to the safety and performance of electrical equipment. Poor connections can overheat, arc, create sparks, and cause shorts. Such conditions can lead to equipment failure, fires, or even explosions.

To ensure a termination or connection is electrically and mechanically sound:

• Inspect the termination or connection for evidence of the damage such as cracks, breaks, corrosion, pitting, etc.
• Clean the termination or connection using approved methods
• Apply the correct type and amount of insulation/sealant as required by the manufacturer’s instructions
• Inspect the installation for compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• Test the termination or connection for electrical continuity and insulation resistance.
• Apply a tag to identify the equipment and the date of inspection.

If a termination or connection is not electrically and mechanically sound, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Do not operate equipment that has an unsafe termination or connection.

Assessment Activity 7: Ensure cables have appropriate identification in accordance with BS 7671.

Cables must be properly identified in accordance with BS 7671:2008 to ensure that the correct cables are used for the intended purpose. Incorrectly identified cables can lead to installation errors, equipment damage, and fires.

In order to ensure cables have appropriate identification in accordance with BS 7671, it is important to adhere to the following:

• Cables should be labelled at each end with the type of cable, voltage rating, and colour.
• Labels should be legible and in a contrasting colour to the cable.
• Where identification is required on a cable other than at each end (e.g. midway along a long cable run), this should be provided by using durable print or embroidered tape.
• Markings should not be covered or obscured in any way.
• Include the manufacturer’s name, type of cable, voltage rating, current rating, and installation instructions
• Secure labels in a moisture-resistant location
• Never use tape to attach a label to a cable
• Ensure cables are properly terminated and connected before applying a label.

These guidelines should be followed in order to ensure cables are properly identified in accordance with BS 7671. Any deviations from these guidelines must be approved by a qualified electrician.

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