Electrical Fault Finding

The expert methodology to troubleshoot anycomponent such as burning smell, sound of operation
electrical equipment is to replace only defectiveand temperature of the equipment.
component in less time. This logical approach makes- Though the area of the problem quoted by
the task simple and time saving. The expertcustomer should be given a special attention but do
responsible for the task needs to analyze the circuitrely on your own judgement.
both logically and systematically to find the fault. TheStep 3: Problem Area
step by step approaches that can be followed to- Keep the schematic diagram of the equipment
find and resolve the fault in any electrical circuit are:handy with you.
Step 1: Homework- Depending upon the prior steps, find out the
Before beginning any electrical work, you should becomponents that are working and those which are
well familiar and equipped with all safety measures.not working properly.
You should be thoroughly acquainted with the- Eliminate the areas functioning accurately. That is
equipments you are going to use and the lockout,how you will get the exact location of the fault.
tagout and testing procedures.Step 4: Fault and Cause
Next, you should be very much familiar with theAny fault can be resolved permanently if you treat
electrical equipment you are going to deal with. If youits cause. The possible causes could be:
are nicely informed about the design and the- Burned components or wear out components such
operation of the equipment, it becomes easier foras relays, fuses, switches.
you to determine the fault. You should also look for- Malfunctioning of internal devices like transformers
the equipment’s history records. The problemor coils.
may be reoccurring and thus you can decide your- Connections and screws, especially the one which
mode of operation more accurately. You must haveare exposed to vibrations.
a written record of the trouble report and shouldStep 5: Repair
discuss it with the customer.Now that you have found the cause of the fault you
Step 2: Observecan repair it. Just to make sure that the fault
- In case of equipment malfunctioning, find out thedetermined by you is absolutely correct you can
signs of mechanical damage for instance chafedmake use of the testing instruments. All throughout
wires, loose components, etc.the procedure, you should be careful enough and
- Observe the basic factors related to theshould avoid any possibility that grounds a mishap.