What is Ohm’s Law?

Answer: Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle in electrical engineering, stating

that the current flowing through a conductor between two points is directly
proportional to the voltage across the two points, provided the temperature remains
constant. The formula is I = V/R, where I is the current, V is the voltage, and R is
the resistance.

inventor: Georg Simon Ohm

he ohm is represented by the Greek letter omega (Ω)

How much is 1 volt? - One Volt is equal to 1 Joule/Coulomb.

the electric potential between two points of a conducting wire when an electric
current of one ampere dissipates one watt of power between those points.

what is 1 ampere - 1Ampere of current means 1 Coloumb Of charge flowing

through a conductor in 1 Second

one coulomb? - C=As (Ampere X Sec)

A quantity of 1 C is equal to the electrical charge of approximately 6.24 x 10^ 18

electrons

2.Define Kirchhoff’s laws.

Kirchhoff’s laws consist of two rules essential in circuit analysis. Kirchhoff's Current
Law (KCL) states that the total current entering a junction equals the total current
leaving it. Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) says that the sum of all electrical voltages
around a loop is zero.

3.Explain the difference between AC and DC currents.

AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) are two types of electrical current.
AC changes direction periodically, while DC flows in one constant direction. AC is
commonly used in power supply systems due to its ease of transformation into different
voltages, whereas DC is often used in battery-powered or electronic devices.

4.What are the types of electrical circuits?

Electrical circuits can be classified into series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits. In a
series circuit, components are connected end-to-end, so the same current flows through
each component.

In a parallel circuit, components are connected across the same voltage source, so the
voltage is the same across each component.

Series-parallel circuits combine elements of both.

5.Describe a capacitor and its uses.

A capacitor is a passive electrical component with two terminals that store energy in an
electric field. It is used in various applications like filtering, power conditioning, signal
processing, and energy storage. Capacitors are essential in creating resonant circuits in
radios and tuning devices.

6.What is the role of a diode in an electrical circuit?

A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction only. It
acts as a one-way valve, permitting the passage of electric current when the voltage
across it is in the forward direction. Diodes are crucial in rectification, signal
demodulation, and electronic protection.

7.Explain the concept of electrical resistance.

Electrical resistance is the property of a material to impede the flow of electric current.
It is measured in ohms and depends on the material's nature, length, cross-sectional area,
and temperature. High resistance reduces current flow, converting electrical energy into
heat, as in resistors used for various applications.

8.What is the significance of grounding in electrical systems?

Grounding is vital for electrical safety and system integrity. It provides a path for fault
currents to safely dissipate into the earth, preventing electrical shocks and protecting
equipment. Grounding stabilises voltage levels, reduces electromagnetic interference,
and ensures a reference point for accurate voltage measurements in electrical circuits.

9.What is a three-phase electrical system?

three-phase electrical system is a polyphase system used primarily for power

transmission and generation. It consists of three alternating currents of the same
frequency and voltage amplitude, with a phase difference of one-third of a cycle (120
degrees). This system is more efficient and economical for large power distribution.

10.Explain the concept of the power factor.

The power factor measures how effectively electrical power is converted into useful
work output. It is defined as the ratio of the real power (used to do work) to the apparent
power (total power within the circuit). A higher power factor signifies efficient power
usage.

11.Discuss the differences between a fuse and a circuit breaker.

Both fuses and circuit breakers are protective devices that prevent overcurrent in
electrical circuits. A fuse is a one-time-use device that melts and breaks the circuit when
excessive current flows through it. On the other hand, a circuit breaker can be reset after
tripping due to overcurrent.

12.What is an inverter, and how does it work?

An inverter is an electronic device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating

current (AC). It uses a switching circuit that rapidly switches the DC input on and off,
creating a square wave. This wave is then modified into a sine wave, which is more
suitable for household appliances and other devices.

13.How do transformers work, and what are their types?

Transformers are electrical devices that transfer electrical energy between two or more
circuits through electromagnetic induction. They work on the principle of Faraday's Law
of Electromagnetic Induction. Transformers are mainly of two types: step-up (which
increases voltage) and step-down (which decreases voltage).
14.What is the significance of a synchronous generator in power systems?

A synchronous generator, or alternator, is crucial in power generation. It produces

alternating current synchronised with the grid frequency. Its synchronous operation
ensures stable and coordinated power delivery, making it a key component in large-scale
power plants and grid-connected systems.

15.Elaborate on the concept of the electrical skin effect.

The skin effect causes the concentration of current near the surface of a conductor at
high frequencies, influencing the effective resistance and conductivity of the material.

Electrical skin effect refers to the tendency of alternating current to concentrate near the
surface of a conductor, particularly at higher frequencies.

This phenomenon results in increased effective resistance, impacting the current

distribution within the conductor. Engineers must consider the skin effect in designing
high-frequency electrical systems.

the skin effect is where alternating current tends to avoid travel through the center of a
solid conductor, limiting itself to conduction near the surface.

This effectively limits the cross-sectional conductor area available to carry alternating
electron flow, increasing the resistance of that conductor above what it would normally
be for direct current:

he electrical resistance of the conductor with all its cross-sectional area in use is known
as the “DC resistance.” The “AC resistance” of the same conductor refers to a higher
figure resulting from the skin effect.

16.What is the role of a semiconductor in power electronics?

Semiconductors play a pivotal role in power electronics by controlling the flow of

electrical power. Devices like power diodes, transistors, and thyristors enable efficient
conversion, control, and regulation of electrical energy in applications such as inverters,
converters, and motor drives. They contribute to advancements in energy efficiency and
electronic control systems.
Situation-Based Interview Questions for Electrical Engineers

Here are a few general situation-based interview questions for electrical engineers.

11.If you discover a sudden voltage drop in a circuit during a critical operation, what
steps would you take to identify and rectify the issue?

Answer: I would start by inspecting the circuit for any loose connections or damaged
components in such a situation. Using a multimeter, I would measure the voltage at
different points to pinpoint the location of the drop.

If necessary, I'd isolate sections of the circuit to identify the specific component causing
the issue. Once identified, I would replace or repair the faulty component and ensure
proper insulation and connection.

1.During a project, you may encounter unexpected electromagnetic interference that

affects sensitive equipment. How would you approach this issue to maintain the
electrical system's integrity?

Answer: I would first identify the source of electromagnetic interference by conducting

a thorough analysis using specialised equipment such as spectrum analysers. Once the
source is identified, I'd implement shielding techniques, use twisted-pair cables, or
introduce filters to mitigate the interference.

Additionally, relocating sensitive equipment away from the interference source or

modifying the grounding scheme could be considered to ensure a stable and
interference-free electrical environment.

When a critical component fails unexpectedly, impacting the overall system

performance, how would you troubleshoot the issue and implement a quick solution to
minimise downtime?

Answer: I would begin by isolating the failed component and conducting a detailed
analysis to understand the root cause of the failure. I'd like to implement a temporary
workaround to restore basic functionality while working on a permanent solution.

Simultaneously, I would collaborate with team members to expedite the procurement of

replacement components and ensure a comprehensive post-failure review to prevent
similar occurrences.

2.You are assigned to optimise the power consumption of an electrical system. What
steps would you take to identify areas for improvement and implement energy-efficient
solutions?

Answer: I would conduct a comprehensive energy audit to identify power-hungry

components and assess overall energy usage patterns. Analysing the system's power
factor and efficiency would be crucial.

Based on the findings, I'd propose upgrading to energy-efficient components,

implementing power factor correction techniques, and optimising control strategies.
Regular monitoring and adjustment would be necessary to ensure sustained energy
efficiency.

3.You are tasked with integrating a new electrical subsystem into an existing complex
system. How would you ensure a seamless integration process and minimise potential
disruptions to the overall system?

Answer: Initially, I would thoroughly review the existing system architecture to identify
potential integration points and dependencies. Collaborating with the existing
development team, I'd ensure compatibility between the new and existing subsystems.
Rigorous testing, including simulation and validation in a controlled environment,
would be essential to identify and address integration challenges before deployment.
Regular communication with stakeholders and a phased implementation approach would
help minimize disruptions during the integration process.

Transformer -

1). What is a Transformer?

A transformer is a static device that converts electrical power from one circuit to another
without affecting the frequency by stepping up (or) stepping down the voltage.

2). What is the theory behind the transformer transformer’s operation principle?

The theory of mutual induction explains the operation of a transformer. A common

magnetic flux connects two electrical circuits.

3). What is meant by a transformer’s rating?

A transformer’s rating is the maximum power that may be extracted from it without the
temperature increase in the winding exceeding the permissible limits for the type of
insulation used.

4). How and why is a transformer’s rated capacity expressed?

A transformer’s rated capacity is indicated in KVA rather than KW. A transformer’s

rating can often be determined by its temperature increase.

The losses in the machine cause the temperature to rise. Copper loss is proportional to
load current, while iron loss is proportional to voltage. As a result, the overall loss of a
transformer is determined by the volt-ampere (VA) & is independent of the load power
factor.

At any power factor value, a given current will result in the same I2R loss.

This loss reduces the machine’s production process. The power factor determines the
output in kilowatts. If the power factor falls for a given KW load, the load current rises
correspondingly, generating higher losses and a rise in machine temperature.

For the reasons stated above, transformers are typically rated in KVA rather than KW.

5). What is a transformer’s power factor?

A transformer’s power factor is very low & lags when there is no load. However, the
power factor on load is nearly identical or equal to the power factor of the load being
carried.

6). In a transformer, what is the normal phase difference between the voltage & the on-
load current?

Normally, the no load current in a transformer lag behind the voltage by around 70.

7). What are the main components of a transformer?

The essential components are as follows:-

Magnetic circuit made up of a laminated

Iron core & clamping structures

The primary winding

The secondary winding

An insulating oil-filled tank

Terminals (H.T) with bushing

Terminals (L.T) with bushing

Conservator Tank

Breather

A vent-pipe

Wind Temperature Indicator (WTI)

Oil Temperature Indicator (OTI) and

Radiator

8). What material is chosen for transformer cores and why?

Because of its high electrical resistance, high permeability, non-aging qualities, and low
iron loss, laminates of specifically alloyed silicon steel (silicon ratio 4 to 5%) are
utilized.

9). What is the function of the iron core in a transformer?

In a transformer, the iron core provides a continuous simple magnetic path with low
reluctance.

10). How is magnetic leakage minimized?

Magnetic leakage is minimized by sectionalizing and interleaving the primary &

secondary windings.

11). Why should the iron core joints be staggered?

The iron core joints should be staggered to avoid a clear air gap in the magnetic circuit,
as the air gap reduces magnetic flux due to its high resistance.

12). Why is the transformer transformer power factor being so low when there is no
load?

The current passing through the transformer has two components. Magnetizing current
(Im) in quadrature (900) to the applied voltage & in phase current in phase with the
applied voltage.

The majority of the excitation current received by the transformer from the primary
winding under no-load conditions is used to magnetize the path.

As a result, the excitation current drawn by the transformer during no-load conditions is
largely made up of magnetizing current, which is employed to generate a magnetic field
in the transformer circuits (inductive nature).

As a result of the inductive nature of the load, the power factor of the transformer
transformer during no-load conditions will be in the range of 0.1 to 0.2.

13). What happens when a DC supply is applied to a transformer?

When a DC supply is applied to the transformer’s primary winding, no back EMF is

induced.

Back EMF is important because it restricts the current generated by the machine.

In the absence of back EMF, the transformer begins to draw massive currents, causing
the primary winding to burn out.
As a result, when a direct current supply is applied to a transformer, the primary
windings will burn.

14). When is the maximum efficiency of a power transformer and a distribution

transformer designed?

When the transformer’s core losses equal the copper losses, the transformer’s efficiency
is maximized at a specific load factor (α).

PCopper loss = α2X PCore loss

The optimum efficiency of a transformer is determined when core loss equals copper
loss using the above calculation for a specific load factor (α).

The core losses of a transformer remain constant regardless of load, but copper losses
vary depending on load. When core and copper losses are the same, a transformer’s
maximum efficiency is determined for a specific load factor.

A transformer’s core loss is calculated depending on its application, so that both core
and copper losses are the same. The power delivered by a power transformer delivering
bulk power used in generating stations & other substations does not vary around the
clock and supplies full load.

As a result, power transformers have been optimized to generate the most power at full
load. Whereas the power delivery capability of distribution transformers varies with the
time of day.

As a result, distribution transformers are intended to be as efficient as possible at 50% of

the rated full load.

15). What are the requirements for two transformers to operate in parallel?

Transformers that will be operated in parallel must meet the following requirements:

The polarities of both transformers must be the same or a short circuit will occur.

The voltage ratings of the two parallel transformers’ the primary and secondary should
be the same.

The transformer per unit impedance should be the same.

Transformers should have the same phase displacement.

The phase sequences of the two transformers must be the same.

16). What is the purpose of using silica gel in transformers?

Silica Gel is utilized to eliminate moisture from the air that enters the transformer.

During the transformer’s breathing, air enters the transformer. This air comes into touch
with the heated transformer oil in the conservator & convectively removes the heat.

If the air entering the transformer contains moisture, the characteristics of the
transformer oil will decline.

As a result, silica gel crystals are used in the breather to remove moisture from the air.
Silica gel crystals are initially blue, but after absorbing moisture, they turn pink.

17). What is the function of an isolation transformer?

An isolation transformer, also known as an insulating transformer, has separate primary
and secondary windings.

18). What is exciting current?

When employed in connection with transformers, exciting current is the current (or)
amperes needed for excitation.

Most lighting and power transformers have an exciting current that ranges from about
10% on small sizes of about 1 KVA & lower to about 0.5% to 4% on bigger capacities
of 750 KVA.

The exciting current is made up of two components: one is a real component in the form
of losses (or) referred to as no load watts, and the other is a reactive component referred
to as KVAR.

19). What are taps & what is their applications?

Some transformers have taps on the high voltage winding to compensate for high or low
voltage circumstances while still delivering full rated output voltages at secondary
terminals.

Taps are designated as “ANFC” (above normal full capacity) (or) “BNFC” (below
normal full capacity) by the ASA and NEMA standards.

20). In a tap changing transformer, is the tap linked to the primary or secondary side?

Because of the low current, tapings are always connected to the high voltage winding
side. When connecting tapings to the low voltage side, sparks will form due to the high
current.

21). What is a transformer’s voltage ratio?

At no load, the voltage ratio is the ratio of the voltage between the line terminals of one
winding to the voltage between the line terminals of another winding.

22). How does a variable frequency transformer work?

Electricity is transferred across two asynchronous alternating current zones using a

variable frequency transformer. It is a double-fed electric machine, similar to a vertical
shaft hydropower generator, with a 3-phase wound rotor coupled to one external
alternating current power circuit via slip rings. On the same shaft is a direct-current
torque motor.

Changing the torque given to the shaft changes the direction of the power flow; when no
force is applied, the shaft rotates due to a frequency difference between the networks
linked to the rotor & stator.

As a result, it functions as a continuously variable phase shifting transformer. It allows

the flow of electricity between two networks.

23). What happens if a DC supply is applied to a transformer’s primary?

Transformers have a high inductance and a low resistance. There is no inductance in a

DC supply, therefore only resistance acts in the electrical circuit.

As a result, a large amount of electrical energy will flow through the transformer’s
primary side.
As a result, the coil & insulation will start to burn out.

24). Why are Delta-Star Transformers used to power lighting loads?

Because lighting loads require a neutral conductor, the secondary needs to have a star
wound. In all three phases, this illumination load is always uneven.

To reduce current unbalance in the primary, delta winding is used in the primary. For
lighting loads, a delta / star transformer is utilized.

25). What types of cooling systems are applicable in transformers?

ONAN (natural oil, natural air)

ONAF (oil natural, forced air)

OFAF (oil-forced, air-forced)

ODWF (oil direct, water forced)

OFAN (oil-forced, air-forced)